Anderson and Carey: Connected forever

MONTREAL - Anderson Whitehead once again shared an incredible moment with Carey Price - this time at the 2019 NHL Awards - but the memorable moments also kept on coming for the young man backstage.

After touching the hearts of millions a second time, Anderson and Price continued talking for more than an hour behind the scenes at the show.

On top of handing the young man an autographed jersey with the words "I hope the very best for you in the future" and offering him a trip to the 2019 NHL All-Star Game in St. Louis, Price also gave Anderson his cell phone number so the two can stay in touch, whenever the Brantford, ON native wants.
The day after the NHL Awards, Anderson sent his first text to his new favorite contact.
"I said: 'Hi Carey, it's Anderson. I can't thank you enough for how much you've done for me and my family. It means so much that you surprised me yesterday. I remember when I was six and all I wanted was a high-five from you. Meeting you and spending time with you was amazing. Thank you again to you and Angela for taking the time in your busy lives to see me'," recounted Anderson.
A response from the winningest goalie in Canadiens history didn't take long to arrive.
"He answered me saying, 'Hey bud, it was our pleasure to have you. Sounds like you have such an amazing life in front of you. Text me whenever you'd like. Hope you had a fun day in the pool'," shared Anderson.

Anderson also noted that Price's showing up in Vegas for the Awards was extra special for another reason.
"It was the first time that Carey and Angela left their two girls, Liv and Millie, at home with other family members," outlined Anderson. "I feel very privileged that they agreed to do that for me."

It would be an understatement to suggest that Anderson did not actually think he would see his favorite player at the show - and his reaction only confirms it.
"I asked the person in charge of the Awards if Carey would be there and he said unfortunately not," explained Anderson. "When I saw him come from backstage, I just broke down. I really didn't expect to see him."
With the surprise, the two men showed once again that hockey is much more than just a game.