Brad Marchand scored a significant goal for the Florida Panthers on Saturday evening and dedicated it to Selah. This marked his sixth goal of the season and the 430th of his career, coming shortly after he mourned the passing of 10-year-old Selah Panacci-MacCallum, the daughter of his close friend JP MacCallum. Selah succumbed to adrenal cortical carcinoma on October 24, a rare form of cancer.
Speaking to the Panthers’ broadcast during the intermission, Marchand expressed his emotions, stating, “The hockey gods always come through. It was a really, really tough week. That’s a special one to get for Selah.” Marchand continued his impactful performance by scoring the winning goal in the shootout, leading the Panthers to a 4-3 victory over the Dallas Stars.
Acknowledging the support from his Nova Scotia friends and a higher power, Marchand emphasized the emotional significance of the goal for everyone touched by Selah’s life. He highlighted Selah’s profound love for hockey and the joy it brought her, reflecting on the importance of cherishing each moment and finding light in dark times.
Marchand’s absence from a previous game against Anaheim was to stand by JP MacCallum’s family, showcasing his deep connection with them. He stepped in as the coach for the under-18 March and Mill Co. Hunters team in Halifax, a gesture of support and solidarity during a challenging period.
Recognizing the broader priorities in life, Panthers head coach Paul Maurice emphasized the importance of addressing personal struggles over professional commitments. Marchand’s journey back from Nova Scotia was filled with delays, yet he managed to deliver an outstanding performance on the ice, showcasing resilience and determination.
Reflecting on the profound impact of Selah’s life and his renewed perspective, Marchand highlighted the preciousness of time and the need to appreciate every moment. He pledged to honor Selah’s memory by embracing life to the fullest and not taking any day for granted.