08/10/2026
Anyone who knows me knows I rarely, if ever, post about anything other than hockey.
Well, this is about hockey too — just from a different perspective.
Exactly 16 years ago, my dad and I were sitting down planning my 30th birthday and his upcoming retirement. We talked about seeing more Brynäs games together, traveling to NHL games, and hopefully seeing plenty of Flyers games — the team in my heart.
A few months later, everything changed.
You were diagnosed with a brain tumor, and life was suddenly put on pause.
The 10-hour surgery went well, and after radiation you fought your way back. Strong enough that eventually we went on a hockey trip I will never forget.
New York. Playoffs. Madison Square Garden. Rangers vs. Sens.
Even though you barely had the energy, you screamed when the Sens won it in overtime.
I just wish it had been the Flyers playing. 😂
We had barely made it home from our first — and sadly last — hockey trip together when we got the news that the tumor was back.
Everything happened so damn fast.
And when the phone rang on that cold February morning 2013, I already knew what it was about before I answered.
Since then, I’ve traveled to see many NHL games. And every time I walk into an NHL arena, I know you’re there with me.
Of course, you’re still cheering for whoever is playing against the Flyers. 😂
I know I made you both disappointed and proud while growing up. But looking back now, I truly hope — and believe — that you and Mom are more proud than disappointed in the man I became.
I turn 46 in 12 days.
You would have turned 80 in 15 days.
This year, I’m going to honor you with that unopened bottle of wh***ey you gave me.
It’s finally time to open it.
For you. ❤️
And tonight, Brynäs plays Björklöven.
The Flyers play too.
So I guess it’s finally time for you to become an orange Flyers fan up there, huh? =)
Love you, Dad. 🖤 ❤️💛🏒🧡🤍🖤
