Mendes: Looking back at Eugene Melnyks complicated legacy in Ottawa – The Athletic

I will always remember standing inside our daughter’s room at the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario in February of 2017.

She had just undergone a procedure to correct a congenital neurological condition, an unexpected development that completely rocked our family’s world. Our daughter — who was usually a ball of energy and enthusiasm — was suddenly having trouble eating and doing simple tasks such as walking a few steps down the hallway.

It was a hellscape that no parent should have to endure.

At the depths of my despair, a bright and colourful package was delivered to her hospital room with a handwritten note.

Elissa,

Wishing you a speedy recovery!

Eugene Melnyk

Inside the cellophane-wrapped package, there was a collection of Senators merchandise that was perfectly suited for a 12-year-old girl. It was a thoughtful gesture that I was certain was completed by one of Eugene Melnyk’s personal assistants.

But a few days later, I was given an even bigger surprise.

Inside the Canadian Tire Centre, Melnyk made his way across a crowded room and made a beeline for me.

He extended his arm, shook my hand and with his other hand on my shoulder asked me, “How is your daughter doing?”

Melnyk had a sincere look in his eyes. It felt like a conversation that only parents could have with each other.

He told me about his two daughters — Anna and Olivia — and how health and family were the only two things that truly mattered in life. Having just undergone a liver transplant of his own, I felt he was speaking from the heart.

We shared a moment that I felt was genuine.

But within two years of that moment, Melnyk was no longer returning my texts or emails.