Photo: Dave Reginek/NHLI via Getty
NHL star Pat Maroon is turning “the negative into a positive” after being body-shamed during a recent game.
“In support of those struggling with mental health, bullying and body image I am making a 2,000 donation in the name of @realjackedwards to @TampaBayThrives and I encourage @TBLightning and @NHLfans to join me,” hetweetedWednesday.
“It was a bunch of us, as a team of us, that decided that we’re going to act on taking the high road, and just taking the negative into a positive. Find a solution of what we can do, and raise money,” Maroon told the outlet. “I think it’s best sometimes you take the high road.”
Mark LoMoglio/NHLI via Getty
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“And if someone is watching the game that’s struggling with that stuff, and they’re listening to that, I mean, I can only imagine how they feel,” he continued. “You know what I mean? Listen, I’m a professional athlete. I can take some stuff. I’m a strong guy, I’m a funny guy, easy guy to talk to, you can joke with me all you want. But when things are unnecessary, that was very unnecessary.”
Maroon explained to the outlet that he’s putting the situation behind him and is excited that they’ve raised $50,000 for the nonprofit already.
“So it’s on the move-up, and hopefully we’re helping people that are struggling with their weight, or with anything in the world. Because at the end of the day, people do struggle, and people do try to lose weight. And sometimes it’s harder than others,” he added. “So, hopefully we impacted a couple people, and we’re raising a lot of money right now for a great foundation.”
source: people.com
