A tribute to my brother

Jersey collecting is a passion to me because it evokes good memories of growing up, times spent with friends and family, and the thrill of hockey competition. This jersey, among all others, has the greatest value to me.

This is a mid 90's jersey worn by my brother, Luc Blais in an adult recreational league in Gatineau, Quebec. All of our lives changed in 2000 when he was diagnosed with Lou Gehrig's disease (also known as ALS) at age 33. In his prime, Luc was a great athlete. We shared good times at the rink playing hockey together. One year apart in age, we got the chance to play together every other year. Most of our opponents hated that......

We often played on the same line. He was the talented skater and puck handler while I was the gritty plumber. He still contends today that I have cement hands. :) The captain's "C" on this jersey indicates how he was and still is a leader in whatever he undertakes.

The team we played on together in the early 90's, was having a rough start. He hated the idea of losing and his competitive nature often took over. He was the player/coach and took it upon himself to reshape the entire lines....we ended up winning that year.....and we nicknamed him Mike Keenan.

Luc passed away from the disease that plagued him on March 28th 2005 at 4:09 AM, almost five years exactly after his diagnosis. His will and determination to battle were a testimony to who he was. His last days were difficult but he was surrounded by close family members. It was hard to let him go and we still miss him every day. He will forever remain in our memory and especially in our hearts.

Rest in peace my friend, look over us and your young family. You've certainly earned your wings.

May God bless those that are and will be affected by this disease.

Marc

To support ALS research contribute to ALS-TDF

ALS TDF Luc Blais Fund

ALS Therapy Development Foundation Home