Celtics honor Marblehead teen with “Heroes Among Us” award

Every Celtics home opener since 1997 has featured an honor known as the “Heroes Among Us” award. This recognition is bestowed upon individuals who have exerted a significant influence within their community. This year, the award was bestowed upon 17-year-old Owen Coyne, a Marblehead resident who tragically succumbed to a brain hemorrhage earlier this month.

The reason for this honor was Owen's proactive decision to become an organ donor several months prior to his passing. His organs later saved five lives, according to medical professionals. In accepting the award, Owen's mother, Angela Paradise, expressed her family's immense joy. Despite only three weeks having passed since his death, the family viewed this occasion as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Angela emphasized that Owen was their hero, having been so to countless others as well. The family's grief, while profound, was momentarily tempered by joyous moments during the game. During the first timeout of the second quarter, the award was presented to them, eliciting a standing ovation from the crowd. Angela noted that while the family now consists of just the five of them, they still feel Owen’s presence.

Owen’s younger brother, Landon, and sister, Ella, both spoke of his role as an exceptional big brother. Friends and family are currently raising funds to establish a scholarship fund in Owen’s name, with further details available at https://www.gofundme.com/f/honoring-owens-memory. This story is ongoing and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

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