ABOVE: The Saddledome was host to thousands of people who attended the Nathan O’Brien Charity Hockey Game. Jayme Doll reports.
CALGARY – Thousands of people packed the Saddledome on Thursday to watch a charity hockey game in honour of five-year-old Nathan O’Brien, who disappeared with his grandparents last year.
A team of Calgary Flames alumni battled against a team called ‘Nathan’s Heroes,’ comprised of MLAs and officers from the Calgary Police Service who were involved with the O’Brien investigation.
The O’Brien family says the game was a chance for them to show their appreciation for all the support they’ve received.
“It warms my heart to see everybody,” said Nathan’s mother Jennifer O’Brien. “And what a great turnout.”
READ MORE: Family of Nathan O’Brien launches children’s foundation with $1 million donation
Those attending the game were encouraged to dress in superhero costumes in Nathan’s honour, and filled the stands wearing brightly coloured masks, tights and capes.
“There’s an extra crowd up in heaven tonight, all the angels are watching tonight too with Nathan,” said father Rod O’Brien.
The significance of the evening wasn’t lost on Nathan’s brother.
“We played a lot of hockey together, so it was great to be out here playing his game,” said Luke O’Brien. “He’s going to be on my mind, and every time I score I’m going to dedicate it to him.”
Tickets for the game were just $5, and organizers say funds raised will be directed towards a number of Alberta charities including Children’s Cottage Society, Brown Bagging for Calgary’s Kids and the Flames Even Strength Program, via the Nathan O’Brien Children’s Foundation.
READ MORE: Timeline of the missing Calgary family Nathan O’Brien, Alvin and Kathryn Liknes
– With files from Jayme Doll
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