Fifteen-year-old Thomas Lachance and his family were on site to take in a morning skate, when the youngster's hockey hero emerged from the locker room and made his way across the ice in flip flops and shorts to formally welcome him to the Canadiens' practice facility.
It was Brendan Gallagher, who was eager to greet Thomas and the rest of his family - his mother, Annie Prevost, step-father, Jean-Pierre Mercier, and step-brother, Pier-Olivier Mercier.
Thomas and Brendan first met at the local Shriners Hospital for Children, where Thomas receives treatment for diastrophic dysplasia, a rare genetic disorder that affects cartilage and bone development.
Gallagher has been visiting patients and their families at the Shriners for the last several years. He has also hosted charity softball games back home in British Columbia to raise funds and awareness on their behalf, and hosted the inaugural Skate for Kids fundraiser last November in Montreal as well.
Thomas was beaming with pride when the Habs' assistant captain stopped by for a visit. It was as if they'd picked up right where they left from their previous encounter.
"When I first met Gally at the hospital, we chatted and we played a game of NHL. It was a lot of fun," said Lachance, a Beauce, QC native who is currently in Grade 10 at Polyvalente Belanger. "He really takes being associated with the Shriners to heart. He's there to help the kids overcome their obstacles and succeed in life. He's a gentleman. He's always there for us."
Admittedly, Thomas feels a strong bond with the seven-year NHL veteran. He admires Gallagher's playing style, refusing to back down from anyone or anything. That's how Thomas approaches the curveballs life throws his way daily as a result of his condition.
"There's a connection there. I see some of him in me and some of me in him," explained Lachance, referencing the warrior-like mentality the two have in common. "He goes to the net and does what he has to do for the team. He isn't scared of anything and makes plays no matter what. He inspires me with the way he plays. It's incredible to watch."