Johnny Gaudreau’s infant son received a heartwarming birthday surprise from the crowd at Columbus on Saturday. The attendees at the Blue Jackets’ game against the Chicago Blackhawks came together to sing a sweet rendition of “Happy Birthday” to Johnny Jr. as he celebrated his first birthday.

Amidst the Blue Jackets’ impressive 5-1 victory at home, the audience was informed about Johnny Jr.’s milestone and encouraged to join in singing to mark the occasion. The birthday boy was featured on the Jumbotron, surrounded by his family, including his mom Meredith Gaudreau, who expressed gratitude on an Instagram Story for the special tribute provided by the Blue Jackets.

The gesture from the crowd and the team made Johnny Jr.’s first birthday a memorable and cherished moment for the family. It was a heartwarming display of support and celebration at the hockey game, creating a joyful and unforgettable experience for all involved.

“I know baby Johnny’s dad appreciates this and the big win,” she posted Saturday.

Earlier in the day, Meredith — who is also a mom to daughter Noa, 2, and is expecting her third baby with Gaurdreau — penned a heartfelt message to her son on Instagram, calling him “Mommy’s rock.”

“Happy 1st Birthday to our baby boy! We love you so much Baby Johnny! Already so strong and so special. 2/22,” Meredith began.

“‘I can’t believe you gave me a boy,’ is all John said over and over again when baby Johnny arrived. I couldn’t stop staring at how happy John was- one of the best moments of my life Baby Johnny you are Mommy’s rock and Noa’s best friend. All of daddy’s accomplishments don’t compare to the pride and joy he had in being your father.

“I can’t wait to give you a little sibling soon! Everything for you Baby Johnny. We love you so much!”

Meredith concluded her post by thanking Gaudreau “for giving me our boy” and for their family.

“Crazy first year but today we celebrate,” she expressed.

The Gaudreau family endured unimaginable tragedy in August when the Blue Jackets forward and his younger brother, Matthew Gaudreau, were struck and killed by a suspected drunk driver on the eve of their sister’s wedding.

Gaudreau and Matthew were biking in the evening on a rural Salem County road in New Jersey when Sean Higgins allegedly hit them.

Gaudreau was 31 years old and Matthew was 29.

The left winger spent the first nine years of his NHL career with the Calgary Flames, who selected him 104th overall in the 2011 draft.

Gaudreau joined the Blue Jackets in 2022 after agreeing to a seven-year, $68.25 million contract in free agency.

Team USA honored Gaudreau’s memory this month at the highly acclaimed 4 Nations Face-Off tournament that spanned Montreal and Boston. A jersey for the late forward hung in a stall reserved for him.

The tournament concluded Thursday with the U.S. falling to rival Canada in an overtime thriller, 3-2.

The Blue Jackets are currently fourth in the Metropolitan Division standings at 27-22-8.