Fleury was a young man in 20s suffering from severe trauma and pain of being serially raped over-150 times as a child without any hope of justice due to a culture of homophobia, victim-blaming and racial prejudices of the time.
While masking and numbing that pain through self-destructive actions, he gave this franchise everything he had through 11 seasons. He played with heart and passion. Even when he wasn't wearing the C, he was the face of the franchise and the leader on the ice. And he played the pivotal role in getting bums in the seats at a time when the franchise was in dire straits.
I was so proud to have him representing our team, even before I realized the duress he was under. Beyond the pain and trauma, he was indigenous and undersized. Within this context, his accomplishments are glorious and his story empowering. He was a role model to many and history of perseverance and overcoming hardships are a testament to his character and spirit.
In that context, who has sacrificed more of himself to this franchise than Fleury? No one. Literally no one.
Further, when he eventually got the help he needed, he dedicated a large part of his life to helping others with trauma and overcoming addictions within the Calgary and western Canada community, especially among indigenous Canadians.
He's an imperfect human with many flaws but also with inspiring accomplishments. He's on my Flames Mount Rushmore. Always.
|