Brave Teen Returns to Ice 9 Months After Bus Crash Killed 10 Teammates
In April 2018, tragedy struck the lives of many families from Humboldt, a small town in Saskatchewan, Canada.
A bus transporting 29 people including hockey players and their coaches for the Humboldt Broncos team was hit by a semi-truck driver that ran a stop sign at an intersection.
Sixteen people were killed in the crash, including 10 players. Thirteen other players sustained serious injuries.
RP Automotive Red Wings pay respects at the Humboldt Broncos memorial site while away at Tisdale for a tournament on the weekend. @_WMH1 @HumboldtStrong pic.twitter.com/1vGlSnm05i
— Lisa (@hockeymom2016) January 7, 2019
“It was the worst day of our life,” Kevin Matechuk, father one of the players, shared with Inside Edition. “When we heard about the accident… It was a long, horrible, horrible time for us.”
Kevin’s son Layne thankfully survived, but not without hardship. He was in a coma for an entire month and remained in the hospital’s care for 6 months.
The road to recovery has been a long one. After dealing with broken ribs, a head injury and internal bruising, the 18-year-old is finally getting back on his feet again.
CBC reported it took time for Layne to learn to speak again. He also had tremors in his hand and was working to regain his muscle strength and control.
But perhaps nothing has been as important to this young man as getting back out on the ice. His determination made it possible.
JUST IN: Family of injured Humboldt Bronco Layne Matechuk have released a statement. Matechuk is now awake after a month in coma. He suffered a brain injury & isn’t able to speak. He’s been moved to Saskatoon City Hospital for further treatment and recovery. #YXE #HumboldtStrong pic.twitter.com/XhWAuTai6S
— Adam MacVicar (@AdamMacVicar) June 29, 2018
His father shared a video on Facebook to document the momentous occasion. “After 9 months and 2 days, Layne strapped on the skates for the first time since the accident,” Kevin wrote.
“A little different than before but he did awesome!!” the proud father went on. “I cannot be more proud of his determination.”
“A special thank you to Greg Slobosian for his help and taking the time with Layne on the ice!!” Kevin continued. “#Believe”
Wow! This is truly an inspiring sight to see. After facing so much unimaginable heartbreak and suffering, Layne’s example gives hope to anyone who has ever wanted to press forward in the wake of loss.
Semi-truck driver pleads guilty to 29 charges in #HumboldtBroncos bus crash https://t.co/YKnlZCJlQ2 pic.twitter.com/9yunKcytlY
— Daily Hive Vancouver (@DailyHiveVan) January 8, 2019
We’re rooting for Layne to continue reaching for his dreams. “We’re going to keep working on it,” his dad said. “Every week, we’re going to keep him on ice again.”
We certainly hope so! Well done, Layne!
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