Team therapist dies in hospital, bringing the death toll to 16
SASKATOON — The athletic therapist for the Humboldt Broncos became the 16th person to die following a horrific bus crash in Saskatchewan last week.
Relatives of Dayna Brons, 25, said they will remember her “joyful smile.”
They said Brons died Wednesday afternoon in a Saskatoon hospital from injuries suffered in Friday’s crash.
“She was surrounded by those she loved and those who loved her,” her family said in a statement. “Dayna will be forever remembered for her joyful smile, and her passion and love of sport.”
The team was on its way to a playoff game when the bus collided with a semi truck at an intersection near Tisdale, Sask.
Brons, of Lake Lenore, Sask., suffered serious head trauma and had undergone two surgeries.
She had been on a breathing apparatus and was in an induced coma.
Brons was extremely proud to be part of the Broncos team, her family said.
“Dayna’s family would like to thank the first responders, emergency staff, and all those who have cared for Dayna over these last few days for their support. And, they would like to thank everyone across Saskatchewan and Canada for their love and prayers during this very difficult time.”
Former NHLer Sheldon Kennedy extended his condolences on Twitter.
“I am devastated to hear of the passing of 25-year-old Dayna Brons,” Kennedy said. “I met Dayna and her family and I know the love they have for one another.”
Lacrosse and soccer teams with whom Brons also worked had offered their support for her on social media. So did Canadian women’s hockey Olympian Hayley Wickenheiser.
“‘The only girl on the boys team’ … Dayna I’ve been thinking of you a lot! Praying you pull through,” she said.
Brons graduated from University of Regina with a degree in kinesiology and health studies. She received an advanced certificate in athletic therapy at Mount Royal University in Calgary.
She joined the Broncos in 2016.