On April 6, 2018, Canada experienced a tragic event when the Humboldt Broncos hockey team was involved in a fatal collision that resulted in the deaths of 16 people and injuries to 13 others. One day after the incident, one of the victims, Logan Boulet, passed away from injuries sustained in the crash. However, in a final act of heroism, Logan helped save the lives of others by choosing to be an organ donor. His organs were donated, ultimately saving six individuals. This selfless act sparked a movement and inspired the creation of Green Shirt Day on April 7, to honor Logan and the other victims of the crash, as well as those whose lives were forever changed.
Logan’s mother, Bernadine Boulet, initially struggled with the loss of her son, feeling that it was their loss as a family. However, over time, she began to see the incredible impact Logan was leaving behind through his decision to be an organ donor. His father, Toby Boulet, views Logan’s legacy as a testament to the loving nature of Canadians and feels proud to be a part of a community that continues to honor his son’s memory. On the anniversary of Logan’s death, the family expresses their gratitude for the support and recognition they have received from various communities and individuals across Canada.
Lisa McGee, a middle school teacher who taught Logan, admits that she had never considered organ donation before him. However, seeing Logan’s selfless decision and the impact it had on others inspired her to become an advocate for organ donation. She hopes to inspire her students and others to start thinking about organ donation at a young age. McGee believes that Green Shirt Day provides an opportunity to start conversations about organ donation that may not have occurred otherwise. Encouraging dialogue and raising awareness about the importance of organ donation is key to increasing the number of donors.
Brenda Brown, the president of the Canadian Transplant Association and an organ recipient herself, stresses the importance of asking questions and initiating conversations about organ donation. Brown emphasizes that simply starting a discussion can be just as crucial as individuals signing up to be donors. By increasing awareness and promoting dialogue about organ donation, more people may be inclined to consider becoming donors in the future. Green Shirt Day serves as a reminder of the impact one person’s decision to donate organs can have on the lives of others, inspiring a ripple effect of generosity and kindness.
The legacy of Logan Boulet and the Humboldt Broncos tragedy continues to have a profound impact on individuals across Canada. Through Green Shirt Day and ongoing efforts to promote organ donation awareness, the memory of Logan and his fellow teammates lives on. The Boulet family expresses their appreciation for the support and recognition they have received, reflecting on the positive legacy that Logan has left behind. By honoring the victims of the Humboldt Broncos crash and promoting organ donation, Canadians are coming together to celebrate life and commemorate the bravery and selflessness displayed by Logan and others in the face of tragedy.
