The Toronto Maple Leafs may be tough, but 11 year-old fan Joshua Landriault has certainly proven his strength over the past months. The St. Ann’s Catholic School student from Midland has been a long time hockey and lacrosse enthusiast and he recently got the surprise of a lifetime.

Back in January, Joshua was diagnosed with medullobastoma and had to undergo surgery to remove a brain tumour the size of a plum. Now continuing his fight, Joshua spends countless hours at Sick Kids Hospital in Toronto for chemotherapy and physiotherapy to rebuild his motor skills.

However, in the midst of treatment, he recently had some unexpected visitors to help celebrate his birthday last week. Maple Leaf rookie Auston Matthews made a surprise visit to Joshua’s hospital room and spent some time talking hockey and offered him a couple of tickets to come see them live in action.

On April 4, 2017, Joshua attended his first-ever leaf game with his father and were given the VIP treatment. They had a tour of the dressing room, met with coach Mike Babcock, and had prime seats for the game.  

Despite the leaf’s losing that night, just being a part of the amazing atmosphere was an incredible experience for Joshua and his dad. Thanks to the generous Maple Leaf organization, this was one birthday that Joshua would surely never forget.

Photo from Toronto Sun.