“Saying good things about my wife is the easiest thing in the world. She’s incredible.”
“I’m not sure if you’ve been online or on social media much lately, but there’s been an outpouring of support for you and Ellie. It’s drowned out a lot of the initial negative comments when this story first broke,” Charlotte says. “So many peoplehave shared their own stories dealing with chronic illness and navigating the complicated health insurance system in this country. They’ve defended you and Ellie for choosing to get married. And they’ve applauded you for going so far to help her. How does that make you feel?”
The other night, after the news story about Damien’s investigation broke, Ellie and I decided to be brave and skim some of the comments online. We braced ourselves for the worst, but we saw that most of the comments were positive and in support of us. We couldn’t believe it.
“It’s the biggest comfort having that support,” I say to Charlotte. “I mean, it pisses me off to know that so many people who are suffering from chronic illness have had the same experience that Ellie has. Losing medical coverage for no reason. Having to bounce around to different clinics and hospitals because your insurance refuses to offer proper coverage. Fighting with your insurance company to pay for the medicine and treatments you need. Going into debt just to stay alive. It’s all so messed up. But we’re grateful that people have opened up to share their own stories. Everyone needs to know just how screwed up the system is so we can change it.”
“Speaking of changing the system, you and Ellie are embarking on something exciting,” Charlotte says. “Would you like to share?”
“We’re starting a charity for people with chronic illnesses who need help paying for medicine or treatment. It’s called Hockey Lends A Hand. Some of my teammates on the Bashers are part of it too,” I say. “If you need assistance paying for your meds or doctor’s appointments or anything, Hockey Lends A Hand will help you. Follow me on Instagram for more information on how to apply for the program. I’m @puckboy89.”
Charlotte chuckles. “Love the handle.”
I grin and shrug. “I thought it was pretty fitting.”
“Thank you for sitting down with me and telling your story, Camden. I’m just disappointed I didn’t get to meet your wife.”
I grin. “She doesn’t love being on camera. She’s very private. But she’ll be watching this when it airs.”
Charlotte ends the interview. When the director says we’re done recording, I let out a breath.
“How’d I do?”
Charlotte tugs on the lapel of her blazer. “You were great. And I’m not just saying that. Your honesty was refreshing. I think it’s going to really resonate with viewers.”
“Thanks. That means a lot.”
She stands up and shakes my hand. “Good luck against Montreal next week.”
“Thanks. See you at post-game press.”
An hour later, I arrive home. When I walk inside, Ellie’s sitting on the couch, wrapped in a blanket. At her feet is Gus snoozing on the floor.
I chuckle. “He looks comfy.”
“He’s pretty tuckered out from the long walk I took him on with the other dogs I walked this afternoon.” She reaches down and pets him. He makes a sleepy noise. “How’d the interview go?”
“Really good.” I wrap my arms around her and kiss her.
She grins. “I’m so glad.” She kisses me. “When does it go live?”
“Tomorrow afternoon.”
She cups my face in her hands. “I can’t wait to watch it. I’m so proud of you.”
I hug her tight and bury my face in her hair.
“I hope a lot of people watch the interview,” she says softly.
“I hope so too.”
“I hope they believe you—believe us.”
“I hope that too, baby.”
“It was so great seeing all those supportive comments for us when we looked online, but there are still people out there who probably think the worst about us.”
“Even if they do, it’s okay. The people who care about us believe us. That’s what matters.”
