In a remarkable act of generosity and compassion, Boston Bruins superstar right wing David Pastrňák has captured the hearts of fans and fellow athletes alike — not for his dazzling play on the ice, but for a selfless decision that extends far beyond the rink.
Upon signing his latest NHL contract, which includes a staggering $49 million signing bonus, Pastrňák stunned the hockey world by announcing that he will donate the entire bonus to charitable causes supporting children battling cancer, underprivileged youth in Czechia, and families affected by tragic loss.
The 29-year-old Czech winger, affectionately known by fans as “Pasta,” made the emotional announcement at a press conference in Boston earlier this week, where he shared the personal experiences and motivations behind his incredible gesture.
“I’ve been blessed with so much because of hockey,” Pastrňák said, holding back tears. “But I’ve also faced deep pain — I lost my son in 2021, and I know what it’s like to have your world collapse. If I can ease even a little bit of that pain for other families or bring joy to a sick child, then that’s worth more than any amount of money.”
Giving From the Heart
The full $49 million will be distributed across several causes that have deeply personal significance for Pastrňák:
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Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (Boston, MA) – Supporting pediatric cancer research and treatment.
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Nadace Krtek (Czech Republic) – A nonprofit organization aiding children with cancer and their families.
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Pastrňák Family Foundation (Newly Announced) – Launching in 2026 to provide scholarships, mental health support, and financial aid to families who have lost a child or experienced medical trauma.
A Moment That Transcends Hockey
While Pastrňák is known across the NHL for his goal-scoring prowess and electrifying style of play, this act has revealed the depth of his character off the ice. Bruins President Cam Neely called it “one of the most meaningful acts of kindness I’ve witnessed in professional sports.”
Bruins teammate Brad Marchand said, “What Pasta just did… that’s legacy stuff. That’s bigger than hockey. He’s not just a great teammate — he’s a great human being.”
Inspired by Tragedy
In 2021, Pastrňák and his partner suffered the unimaginable loss of their newborn son, Viggo. The tragedy rocked the hockey community, and fans around the world rallied in support. Now, Pastrňák is channeling his grief into something that will offer hope and support to others.
“I’ll never stop thinking about my son,” Pastrňák said. “But this is how I honor him — by trying to make life better for other kids and families who are hurting.”
NHL, Fans, and the World Respond
Reactions poured in from all corners of the league and beyond. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman called the donation “an extraordinary demonstration of compassion and leadership,” while social media erupted with admiration. The hashtags #PastaGivesBack and #ForViggo quickly began trending across platforms.
Even athletes outside the sport weighed in. Tennis star Novak Djokovic, a fellow native of Eastern Europe, tweeted, “What an incredible gesture by @pastrnak96. True greatness is found in giving.”
A New Chapter
Pastrňák’s contract extension cements his place as a cornerstone of the Boston Bruins for years to come, but his impact now reaches far beyond TD Garden. His newly announced Pastrňák Family Foundation will launch programs both in the U.S. and Czechia, and is expected to receive additional support from teammates and corporate partners in the months ahead.
Final Word
David Pastrňák has always been known as a fan favorite and one of the NHL’s most exciting talents. But this week, he showed the world that his greatest assist might not come on the ice, but in the lives he’s about to change forever.
In a sport defined by speed, grit, and heart, Pastrňák just reminded us what real heart looks like. And for those he’s helping — and all of us watching — this truly is the best news we could hope for.
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