Tyler Seguin

Kids with life-threatening health issues meet NHL All-Stars

Published Feb. 1, 2016 3:20 p.m. ET

foxsports

Ryan Smethurst brandished a big smile as the 16-year-old joined his family in making the lengthy trek to the NHL All-Star Game in Nashville, Tenn.

The Calgary (Alberta) natives had no issue going the extra mile, considering the many they've traveled as Ryan fights an ongoing battle after being born with a congenital heart defect. Although more surgery awaits, Smethurst was able to celebrate a memorable weekend with Flames All-Stars Johnny Gaudreau and captain Mark Giordano - courtesy of The Children's Wish Foundation of Canada.

Thanks to @ChildrensWishAB, Ryan got to hang out with Johnny & #TheCaptain at the #NHLAllStar Weekend!https://t.co/gqsgKgNDMT
— Calgary Flames (@NHLFlames) February 1, 2016

Via CalgaryFlames.com:

"Because I really like the NHL, I was thinking about my family if I wanted to do a family trip. My mom said I should do a trip I like, so I (chose this one because I) get to meet all the players."

Definitely a smart move as Smethurst spent time with Los Angeles Kings defenseman Drew Doughty and Dallas Stars forward Tyler Seguin among many other NHL All-Stars.

Ryan met @tseguinofficial tonight at the #NHLAllStar game in #Tennessee tonight ?? pic.twitter.com/y64ueQ4FBo
— Children's Wish (@Childrens_wish) January 30, 2016

Smethurst was not alone as he joined 6-year-old Nevan Coburn of Vancouver, British Columbia, 11-year-old Wyatt Morisette from Calgary, 14-year-old Jonathan Pitre of Ottawa as guests of The Children's Wish Foundation of Canada, which grants wishes for children with life-threatening illnesses. Jack Traxler, a 13-year-old from St. Paul, Minn., was a guest from Make-A-Wish America.

What a day for Ryan and his family thanks to @ChildrensWishAB #NHLAllStar pic.twitter.com/2BW5zFmwaS
— Calgary Flames (@NHLFlames) January 30, 2016

The five were able to meet the players and have their jerseys signed, as well as attend the skills competition on Saturday and the All-Star Game itself the following day.