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Senators fan Jonathan Pitre, known as ‘Butterfly Boy,’ dies at 17
Jonathan Pitre is a boy that suffers from the extremely rare Epidermolysis Bullosa, but faces every day with a positive heart and a love of hockey, inspiring the Ottawa Senators and the whole NHL community.
Jonathan Pitre, known as the ‘Butterfly Boy’ because of the skin condition he suffered from, has died at the age of 17.
Pitre, who is from the Ottawa area, lived with a rare disease known as epidermolysis bullosa, a painful genetic disorder that caused his skin to easily tear and blister.
A longtime Ottawa Senators fan, he was made an honorary scout by the club in 2014. The team will wear special stickers on their helmets in Pitre’s honour during their game against the Pittsburgh Penguins on Friday.
Pitre died Wednesday evening at a hospital in Minnesota, where he was receiving an experimental stem cell transfusion.
Many from the sporting and hockey world shared their condolences on Twitter Friday morning, when news of his death spread.
In a world of sports heroes, one truly has stood out for me personally: Jonathan Pitre. He was an absolute inspiration. He met all his challenges with an incredible courage. Rest in Peace, Jonathan. Our condolences to his amazing Mom, Tina. pic.twitter.com/xTvQDfgPIj
Jonathan Pitre was the toughest kid I ever met. The last time we saw each other was just before he left for treatment in the US. He was wise beyond his years. RIP #butterflychildpic.twitter.com/GkZupxVdL4
My heart just breaks for the Pitre family. Jonathan was so brave and strong. My thoughts are with his mom and sister. Ottawa will miss this young man. https://t.co/4LIgr6Y8CJ
Ottawa teenager Jonathan Pitre, known as the ‘Butterfly Boy’ as he was born with epidermolysis bullosa, an incurable genetic disorder that causes his skin to easily tear and constantly break into blisters, has died. He was the epitome of strength, determination and courage. pic.twitter.com/WhhGzKMuBZ
Don't do it now, because you will be a mess and useless all day … but tonight or this weekend, read and watch everything you can about Jonathan Pitre. I will even though I know the story. He was an amazing, inspiring young man. I am so sorry for his mom's loss. RIP, Jonathan. https://t.co/TI4joXhR6B
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