Brendan Gallagher Pens Heartfelt Farewell to His Mother Della After Her Battle with Brain Cancer

Montreal Canadiens forward Brendan Gallagher has shared a deeply emotional farewell message following the passing of his mother, Della, who lost her battle with stage 4 brain cancer earlier this month. In a moving tribute, Gallagher opened up about the profound impact his mother had on his life, her strength, and the lasting memories she left behind.

Della Gallagher, who was diagnosed with brain cancer in August 2021, fought bravely against the disease for nearly two years. Despite doctors giving her only months to live, she remained resilient and determined, inspiring not only her family but also those who knew her. Brendan, who had been by her side throughout her battle, expressed in a message to his fans and supporters how much he admired her courage.

“She was so strong, so courageous, and really just the best mom,” Gallagher wrote. “Everything I am is from her. The way she fought, the way she loved, and everything she taught me is something I’ll carry with me forever.” Gallagher described the bond he shared with his mother as an irreplaceable one, saying it was a relationship unlike any other, one that he will cherish for the rest of his life.

Della’s death came at a challenging time for the Gallagher family, as she passed away while the Canadiens were on a road trip in Calgary. Despite the heartbreaking loss, Brendan took solace in the support of his team, who rallied around him during this tough time. The Canadiens arranged for a special visit to his family’s home during a trip to Vancouver, offering Brendan a chance to spend precious moments with his loved ones in the wake of his mother’s death.

Through his grief, Gallagher has found comfort in the birth of his daughter, Everly Mona Della Gallagher, born shortly after Della’s passing. The newborn, named in honor of her grandmother, is a symbol of hope and a way to continue Della’s legacy within the family. “Our daughter will grow up knowing who her grandma was, what she stood for, and the love she gave us all,” he said. “She’ll be proud to carry that name.”

Gallagher’s emotional farewell highlights the deep love he had for his mother and the strength she instilled in him. While the loss is devastating, Brendan is determined to honor Della’s memory and live by the lessons she taught him, keeping her spirit alive in everything he does, both on and off the ice.