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How a Blue Jackets legend turned hockey hats into hope for families

A simple blue hat became a symbol of resilience. Two decades later, Wright’s mission still lifts up families facing their toughest battles—on and off the ice.

,   and  Administrator
2 min read
In the picture there is a sports player,he is posing for the photograph and on his shirt there are...
In the picture there is a sports player,he is posing for the photograph and on his shirt there are names of different sponsors companies.

How a Blue Jackets legend turned hockey hats into hope for families

A former Columbus Blue Jackets forward, Tyler Wright, has made a lasting difference off the ice. Wright's passion for helping children with cancer led to the creation of the Hats for Heroes program, which raised funds and built strong community bonds. His work continues to support families facing serious illnesses more than two decades later.

Tyler Wright first connected with pediatric cancer patients during his time with the Pittsburgh Penguins. That experience stayed with him when he joined the Blue Jackets as part of the expansion team. Seeing a chance to deepen the club’s ties to Columbus, he launched Hats for Heroes alongside Wendy Bradshaw.

The initiative sold special CBJ-branded hats, with proceeds going to young cancer patients. Partnering with the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge No. 9, the program provided financial support while also creating personal connections. Wright’s dedication went beyond fundraising—he spent time with patients, their families, and hospital staff, making the Blue Jackets a visible part of their lives. Known for his gritty play and key goals on the ice, Wright became a fan favourite in Columbus. But it was his work with Hats for Heroes that left the deepest mark. Many of the relationships he formed during that time remain important to him today. Wright later co-founded the Tyler Wright Foundation with Bradshaw. The organisation now focuses on rare neurodegenerative diseases, particularly childhood-onset Tay-Sachs. His commitment to helping families facing serious diagnoses has stretched far beyond his hockey career.

The Hats for Heroes program raised money and awareness for pediatric cancer while strengthening ties between the Blue Jackets and the Columbus community. Wright’s efforts also set the stage for his later work supporting families affected by rare diseases. More than 20 years after his time with the team, his impact in the city endures.

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