John and Christina Mayich are reaching out to the world with two specific requests. Firstly, they wish for everyone to learn about their son, Matthew Mayich, a vibrant 21-year-old who recently joined the Arizona State Sun Devils hockey team after an impressive four seasons in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) with Ottawa and one season at Clarkson University. Described by his mother, Christina, as a "boy's boy" with an "infectious smile," Matthew is passionate about fishing and values his family time over partying. His father, John, adds that Matthew has a unique ability to bring joy and energy to their home, making it clear that his presence is deeply missed.
Tragically, Matthew's life took a drastic turn when he collapsed during an outdoor workout on August 20, shortly after his arrival at Arizona State, and has since been in a coma. The Mayich family reported that conditions on the day of the incident were dire, leading to Matthew suffering from heat stroke. John's communication with the media made it clear that Matthew was in good shape and prepared for the season, highlighting the shock of the situation.
As the family navigates this challenging time, they are taking it "day by day," hoping and praying for a miracle. They have built a strong support network in Arizona, including their daughter Stephanie and son Josh, along with Matthew's long-term girlfriend, Alexa. Surprisingly, support has poured in from around the world, with prayers and kind words coming from places as distant as Kenya. Christina expressed awe at the widespread care for Matthew, reflecting on how this has revealed the goodness of humanity.
The family has also shown immense gratitude towards the medical staff and community members who have rallied around them, including Anthony Houston, who ensures that Matthew receives optimal care in the Arizona hospitals. The Mayichs have been touched by the support from local communities, including a vigil organized by Kim Thompson for Matthew, attended by several of his teammates and friends from the hockey community. Such gatherings have provided both emotional strength and a reminder of Matthew's spirit.
Amid the ongoing crisis, John and Christina have shared heartfelt memories of Matthew, including his ability to forge friendships with people of all ages. They spoke of how Matthew would help a young neighbor with his bicycle or assist Alexa's grandfather with gardening. Christina described how Matthew's hospital room has been filled with supportive tokens from friends, including fishing gear and personal items that reflect his interests and passions. The family has also received a Miraculous Medal and a blessed stone from an individual in England, symbolizing their hope and faith during this difficult time.
As the Mayichs have encountered various forms of support, they reported instances of yellow ribbons tied in their community to honor Matthew, showcasing the grassroots efforts of those touched by his story. The Mayich family also took pride in Matthew's achievements in hockey, including being drafted by the St. Louis Blues in the sixth round of the 2023 NHL Draft. They shared the joy of experiencing the draft day with him, recalling the excitement and relief when Matthew's name was called. His journey in the sport has been a testament to hard work, determination, and the strength of his relationships with supportive friends and family.
Moreover, Christina and John expressed their appreciation for Alexa, Matthew's girlfriend, who has become an integral part of their family. They emphasized how they are grateful for the love and support shared amongst their close-knit circle as they continue to hold onto hope. In reflecting on Matthew's character, his siblings noted that he is a source of light and joy in their lives, and they remain optimistic that they will hear his humor again soon.
