ESPN REPORT: Pregnant Waitress Serves Brad Marchand, Receives Heartwarming Surprise
In a small diner just outside of Boston, 30-year-old waitress Jessica Reynolds was nearing the end of her shift—and the final weeks of her pregnancy. Despite her swollen feet and growing exhaustion, she wore her usual warm smile and greeted each customer with kindness and attentiveness. But on this particular day, she had no idea that her life was about to change, all because of one customer: Boston Bruins star Brad Marchand.
Jessica has been working at the family-owned diner for nearly seven years, often picking up extra shifts to support her growing family. With another baby on the way and medical bills piling up, she had little choice but to keep working through the fatigue. “It’s tough,” she admitted. “But I do it for my kids. You just push through.”
Marchand, well known in the NHL for his fiery presence on the ice, was in town after a morning skate and stopped in for a quiet meal. Dressed in a hoodie and baseball cap, he didn’t draw much attention. Jessica greeted him like any other customer, unaware at first of who he was. As always, she was gracious and focused on giving him the best service possible.
“He was super polite,” Jessica later recalled. “I didn’t even recognize him at first. He was just really kind and asked how far along I was.”
The two chatted briefly, with Jessica sharing that she was expecting her second child in just a few weeks. Marchand listened intently, expressing admiration for her dedication and strength. After finishing his meal, he asked for the check—but what came next was something Jessica never expected.
As he got up to leave, he handed her a sealed envelope and simply said, “Take care of yourself. You’re doing amazing.” With that, he gave her a nod and walked out the door.
Curious and slightly confused, Jessica opened the envelope once her shift ended. Inside was a personal, handwritten note and a check—for $25,000.
The note read:
“Thank you for your kindness and strength. You reminded me of the importance of grace under pressure. Wishing you and your growing family all the best — Brad.”
Jessica was stunned. “I just broke down crying,” she said. “I couldn’t believe it. I didn’t think people did things like that.”
Word of the generous gesture quickly spread online, and fans from across the country praised Marchand for his thoughtfulness and humility. The money, Jessica shared, will go toward covering her medical expenses, baby supplies, and a college savings fund for her soon-to-arrive baby girl.
For a man known for his fierce competitive edge and gritty play, this moment offered a glimpse into the heart behind the helmet. Brad Marchand may be a tenacious force on the ice, but off it, he proved that kindness can be just as powerful as any goal or assist.