Youri Blaquière

Hi my name is Claudia Plante, our family is navigating an incredibly difficult time after the sudden loss of my husband, Youri Blaquière, who was not only a wonderful father but also my son Alexis’ biggest supporter. He never missed a single one of his hockey games, whether it was a late-night practice or an early morning tournament, my husband was always there, cheering him on from the stands. He believed in my son’s passion and made sure hockey was a constant in his life.

Youri was our primary provider at home and made it possible for our family to live a stable and happy life. Now, as we adjust to life without him, everything feels uncertain. Without my husband’s income, we’re facing the possibility of having to leave our home. It’s heartbreaking to think about uprooting our lives during such a fragile time, especially when stability is what my son needs most. I want to do everything I can to keep his life as steady as possible—to keep him in his current school, with his friends, and on the hockey team that has become like a second family to him.

Being on the ice, surrounded by his teammates and coaches, has been a source of strength and comfort for him. His hockey family has stepped in with so much kindness and encouragement, giving him a sense of belonging and support when he needs it most. My husband would have wanted nothing more than for our son to keep playing and pursuing what he loves.

Unfortunately, without my husband’s income, the cost of hockey, including equipment and fees, is something I can no longer afford alone. We’re humbly asking for help so we can keep this part of my son’s life steady and secure, even as so much around him is changing. In addition to hockey, any funds raised will also be used to support his future post-secondary education, ensuring he has the opportunities his dad dreamed of for him.

Any contribution, no matter how small, would go a long way in helping my son stay on the ice, pursue his education, and give our family a little bit of stability in this challenging time.

Thank you so much for supporting our family and helping us honor my husband’s memory by keeping our son’s dreams alive.