Hockey world mourns death of 'Butterfly Boy' Jonathan Pitre
Jonathan Pitre, otherwise known as the "Butterfly Boy' died Wednesday evening at 17 after a heroic battle with epidermolysis bullosa.
The disease makes the skin incredibly fragile and easily susceptible to blistering and erosion, making scratching and rubbing nearly impossible. He lost his fight after suffering septic shock as the result of an infection.
Pitre raised a great deal of money for the disease and was known for being a huge fan of the Ottawa Senators. Last March, ahead of a stem cell treatment in Minnesota, the Senators surprised Pitre with a meet-and-greet.
His story made waves around the NHL, so when news of his death broke Friday, many in the hockey community took to social media to pay their respects.
It was a privilege getting to know you Jonathan Pitre, thanks for sharing all of your great qualities with us all. You will always be remembered. My thoughts and prayers to Tina and the entire Pitre family.
— Erik Karlsson (@ErikKarlsson65) April 6, 2018
Jonathan was the most courageous young man I’ve ever met. He had the toughest life imagineable, and yet always saw the positive in it...always found hope through endless pain. His disease gave him a purpose...to help educate, and help other kids with EB. We will never forget him. https://t.co/QYvrlhmOOb
— James Duthie (@tsnjamesduthie) April 6, 2018
The Senators join the rest of Ottawa and mourn the loss of our special friend. He taught us what courage and resilience really is, all the while displaying his trademark enthusiasm and smile.
— Ottawa Senators 🦋 (@Senators) April 6, 2018
We'll all miss you, Jonathan.
Our sincere condolences to Tina and the entire family. pic.twitter.com/g40UsP0yLW
My heart goes out to Tina and the rest of Jonathan Pitres family. He was without a doubt the most courageous and selfless person I have ever met. It was a privilege to know him and I will never forget how much inspiration one person can bring to this world.
— Zack Smith (@Smit_Treat15) April 6, 2018
Jonathan Pitre was a true hero to everyone who knew his story. His daily fight is over; his profound effect on this world won’t ever be. R.I.P.
— Adam Proteau (@Proteautype) April 6, 2018
I had the opportunity to meet Jonathan one of my first nights on the set at TSN; thoughts of his enthusiasm and confidence have never left me. @TSN_Sports @TSNHockey https://t.co/RRiD6d9FQd
— David Poulin (@djpoulin20) April 6, 2018
Jonathan inspired us with his courage and spirit; and made us smile because of his wit. His Mom reaffirmed love for us with her devotion to Jonathan. Sadly, the brightest lights often burn the shortest, but we never forget their intensity. RIP, Butterfly Boy. https://t.co/fjtTwDcbUJ
— John Lu (@JohnLuTSNMtl) April 6, 2018
The TSN family is saddened to share the loss of Jonathan Pitre. Jonathan, 17, passed away after a life-long battle with Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB), a rare genetic skin condition.
— TSN (@TSN_Sports) April 6, 2018
Today, we remember our dear friend: https://t.co/OjlX76c5Tu pic.twitter.com/OFHVKGl2KY
The #Flames send condolences to Jonathan Pitre's family and friends. His courage and positive attitude inspired us all. Rest in peace.
— Calgary Flames (@NHLFlames) April 6, 2018
The NHLPA sends its deepest condolences to Jonathan Pitre’s mother, Tina Boileau, and their entire family. Jonathan’s positivity and outlook on life was an inspiration to everyone in the hockey community, especially those who were fortunate enough to meet him. pic.twitter.com/AtKOgXsy5M
— NHLPA (@NHLPA) April 6, 2018
Mark Borowiecki and Zack Smith look back at the memories they shared with their friend Jonathan Pitre and the inspiration he brought to the Sens. pic.twitter.com/vXMZlWp86F
— Ottawa Senators 🦋 (@Senators) April 6, 2018
Jonathan Pitre was a hero in every sense of the word - a courageous and determined fighter who persisted in the face of every challenge, and who inspired so many. My deepest condolences to his mother Tina, friends and family today. https://t.co/JqqljEyJYz
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) April 6, 2018