Meredith Gaudreau announces third pregnancy at memorial service
Meredith Gaudreau reveals pregnancy during emotional memorial service
Meredith Gaudreau, widow of Columbus Blue Jackets star Johnny Gaudreau, revealed her pregnancy with their third child during Monday’s memorial service for her husband and his brother, Matthew Gaudreau.
“John and I enjoyed the best six months as a family of four. These will forever be the most cherished months of my life,” Meredith said. “There’s one particular week I will treasure forever. We are actually a family of five. I’m in my ninth week of pregnancy with our third baby.”
She described the pregnancy as a “total surprise.”
Meredith Gaudreau revealed at Matthew and Johnny’s Memorial on Monday that Johnny was expecting his third child. ❤️🙏 pic.twitter.com/Sg71R1Sg5Y
— Hockey Patrol (@HockeyPatrol) September 9, 2024
“John was overjoyed and thrilled,” she said. “His immediate reaction was to kiss and hug me.”
Their first child, Noa Harper Gaudreau, was born on 30 September 2022, and their second, Johnny Edward Gaudreau, arrived on 22 February.
“Noa, our eldest, isn’t even 2 years old. In under three years of marriage, we have built a family of five,” Meredith stated at the service. “It seems impossible, but I see it as a blessing. How fortunate am I to be the mother of John’s three children? Our last one being a special blessing despite these difficult times.”
“To my babies, your daddy loves you so much, and you have the best daddy in the world,” she added.
On 29 August, Johnny Gaudreau, 31, and his brother Matthew Gaudreau, 29, were cycling in Salem County, New Jersey, when they were hit and killed by a driver suspected of being under the influence of alcohol, according to police. The driver was arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto.
Matthew Gaudreau’s wife, Madeline Gaudreau, is also expecting their first child.
“This past week has felt like an inescapable nightmare,” Madeline said at the memorial service. “I feel numb, angry, sad, and blessed all at once. Some days, the reality is debilitating. But mostly, I just miss Matt.”
“The 14 years we spent together will never be enough, but I will cherish those memories, especially on the toughest days,” she said.
“He was destined to be a dad,” Madeline added. “When we learned about our son, Tripp, it consumed his every day. He downloaded apps, ordered books, found the best diaper brand, ensured I had the best vitamins, and sought tips from John. I will never forget the tears he had when he first heard Tripp’s heartbeat.”
“I know Matt will always be with his son,” she said through tears.
She expressed hope that her son and Meredith Gaudreau’s baby would share the same bond their fathers had.
To Meredith, she said, “I promise to always be there for you and the kids.”
Madeline also urged people at the service to avoid drinking and driving.
“Please don’t put another family through this torture,” she said.
The Gaudreau brothers died the night before their sister, Katie, was set to marry, according to their former coaches.
The brothers were “always side by side” and “absolute best friends,” Meredith wrote on Instagram two days after their deaths.
“I believe John couldn’t live a day without you, so it comforts me knowing you are together in heaven,” she said to her brother-in-law.
“Matty, thank you for loving our children like your own and for being an incredible uncle and godfather,” she added, promising to take care of his wife, Madeline, and their future son.
“Please continue to look after John as you always have. I will take care of Madeline and Tripp,” she said.
What Other Media Are Saying
- 8NewsNow reports on the poignant revelation by Meredith Gaudreau, Johnny Gaudreau’s widow, announcing her pregnancy with their third child during his memorial service, following the tragic deaths of Johnny and his brother Matthew in a bike accident.(read more)
- ABC7 Chicago reports that Johnny Gaudreau’s widow Meredith announced her pregnancy with their third child at a memorial service honoring her husband and brother-in-law, who were killed by a suspected drunk driver.(read more)
- Global News reports on Meredith Gaudreau’s emotional announcement of her pregnancy with the couple’s third child at Johnny Gaudreau’s funeral, highlighting the family’s tragedy and her husband’s legacy.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Who announced their pregnancy at the memorial service?
Meredith Gaudreau announced her pregnancy with their third child.
How did Johnny Gaudreau react to Meredith’s pregnancy news?
Johnny Gaudreau was beaming, kissing, and hugging Meredith immediately.
What are the names and birthdates of Johnny and Meredith Gaudreau’s children?
Noa Harper Gaudreau (Sept. 30, 2022) and Johnny Edward Gaudreau (Feb. 22).
How did Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau die?
They were struck and killed by a driver suspected of being under the influence of alcohol.
What did Madeline Gaudreau urge people to do at the memorial service?
She urged people not to drink and drive to prevent similar tragedies.
