Anyone who’s every met hockey legend Bobby Orr knows what a great guy he is. I mean, the above and beyond kind of great guy. Of course he’s been involved in many charities, he’s coached, advised and been the face of all things good about hockey. But he’s been much more than a charitable person. I have been incredibly fortunate in my life and career to meet many people who would be considered legends. But no one in that category showed me kindness the way #4 did. I’ll get to that story, after you find out what his most recent act of kindness is.
Over the years, Bobby Orr had often been a patient at the world renowned Massachusetts General Hospital. He had always appreciated the top notch care he received there. Yesterday, he sent the people he called, “heroes,” a heartfelt letter of thanks and support, during likely the most difficult time in their lives of caring for patients.
Orr went on to say, “The battle against COVID-19 could never be managed without your tireless dedication, and please know that the people you serve understand your commitment, and we do not take it for granted. ”
Read the entire letter here:
And now, for the rest of the story; my personal story.
When I first moved back to the Boston area to take a job here, Bobby Orr reached out to me. I need to preface it with, Orr had worked with my father for a period of time doing some consulting. public speaking and other client related business. He knew I was “new to town” and called to see how I was doing. Can you imagine, getting a call like that from Bobby Orr. He would call periodically, in fact, and I would often put him on the air. He was so generous with his time. He invited my then boyfriend, now husband and I to dinner at his home on a few occasions during our conversations, but we were too shy (and stupid) to accept. (Somebody kick me). As the years went on, I decided he should be included in the guest list for our wedding. He had always been so real, so gracious and kindhearted, it was the least I could do. I shouldn’t have been surprised when he accepted my invitation, but I was. I mean… this is Bobby Orr we are talking about. Undoubtedly, he was the most popular guest at the wedding, and appeased many of my overzealous friends with photos and conversation. So, thank you Bobby Orr for showing all of us what kindness is, for being a class act first, and a world class athlete, secondly.
