From the Ice to Inner Strength: The Sydors’ Story of Redemption and Recovery

Day One Society is honoured to present a special breakfast event on Monday, May 26, 2025, featuring retired NHL pro Darryl Sydor and his wife, Shar. This inspiring morning, hosted at the Delta Hotel by Marriott in Kamloops, will offer attendees an opportunity to hear the Sydors’ deeply personal journey from addiction to recovery. Through candid storytelling, they will share the challenges they have faced, the strength they have found, and the hope they continue to embrace.

The event, A Journey of Hope and Healing with the Sydors, will provide an intimate and moving look at their path to recovery. Attendees will hear firsthand about the struggles, victories, and invaluable lessons they have learned along the way.

For Darryl Sydor, an 18-year NHL veteran and two-time Stanley Cup champion, success on the ice masked personal struggles that remained hidden for years. In 2015, his battle with addiction became public after he was charged with drinking and driving while taking his then 12-year-old son to a hockey game. This pivotal moment led him to seek further treatment, supported by his family, close friends, and the NHL/NHL Players’ Association Substance Use and Behavioural Health Program.

“Whether it is mental health or battling addiction, it’s a difficult journey with ups and downs. You have to be humble, willing to dig deep, and vulnerable enough to rebuild yourself,” Darryl shared. “The past is there. I don’t love looking back on the day of my DUI with my son or my relapses, but it reminds me of how far I’ve come and where I never want to return. I am an alcoholic in recovery every single day.”

His wife, Shar, stood by his side, offering unwavering support. Their journey together underscores the power of resilience, love, and perseverance in overcoming addiction and rebuilding a future filled with hope.

Day One Society is proud to support this event and the powerful message it brings to the community.

“We at Day One Society are very honoured to be the benefactors of this event, but even more proud of Darryl, Shar, and their family’s courage to share their story in a very public way,” said Siân Lewis, Executive Director of Day One Society. “We know that when people speak up and share, it helps to combat stereotypes and reduce stigma so that there is an openness for others to find hope and healing. This event will be a great opportunity to do just that and for our community to show their support of the Sydors.”

By sharing their experiences, the Sydors hope to inspire others to seek help and remind individuals and families that recovery is possible.

“We are so thankful to Darryl, Shar, and their kids for bravely sharing this story,” added Lewis. “In our work, we seek to provide help and hope so people can find healing in their journey from addiction to recovery. We are thankful the Sydors are doing what they can to reduce stigma so that people do reach out for help.”

Tickets for this remarkable event are $75 each and are available now with under 50 remaining. Proceeds from the event will go directly to Day One Society to support its mission of helping individuals and families on their path to recovery. For more details and ticket purchases, visit https://www.dayonesociety.ca/sydors

This event promises to be an unforgettable experience, one of courage, healing, and hope. Join us as we stand together to break the stigma of addiction and support those on their journey to recovery.