An Edmonton restaurateur, Ryan Brodziak, and his 11-month-old son Ozzy were involved in a collision in Sherwood Park earlier this week. They were hit by a vehicle while walking with their pet dog on a sidewalk in their neighbourhood. Both Ryan and Ozzy sustained serious injuries and were taken to the hospital, while their dog received minor injuries. A GoFundMe campaign was set up for the family to help with their medical expenses and recovery. Ryan suffered a spinal cord injury, Ozzy had a skull fracture and a broken arm, and their dog was treated by a veterinarian.
An update on Friday revealed that Ryan had undergone surgery and had not regained any mobility, with an uncertain prognosis. Ozzy was healing well and set to be discharged soon from the children’s hospital. Ryan’s wife, Bailey, was splitting her time between the ICU and pediatric unit to be with both Ryan and Ozzy as they continue to recover. The family expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of support they had received from the community. The GoFundMe had raised over $240,000 by Friday evening, which will help support the family while Ryan is unable to work and Bailey remains on maternity leave.
Ryan Brodziak is well-known in Edmonton’s restaurant scene for operating establishments such as the Local Omnivore, Pink Gorilla, and Gravy Burger and Fries. Many in the industry spoke highly of his kindness and positivity, with fellow restaurateur Tyson Boyd describing him as a supportive and genuine individual. The community has rallied around the Brodziak family, with support coming from Edmontonians, former teammates like Kyle Brodziak, and organizations like the St. Louis Blues Alumni group. Businesses, including the Oilers Entertainment Group, also contributed to the GoFundMe to assist with Ryan and Ozzy’s recovery.
Kyle Brodziak, a former Edmonton Oilers player and Ryan’s brother, appealed to the public to donate to his brother’s recovery. He shared the details of the accident on social media and encouraged people to support Ryan and Ozzy. The Edmonton Oilers also made a donation to the GoFundMe campaign to show their support for the family. The impact of the accident and the community’s response have left family members still in shock, waiting for updates on Ryan’s condition from doctors. The road to recovery for the Brodziak family is expected to be long and challenging, but the support and generosity they have received have been a source of strength and hope during this difficult time.
