Legacy of Ace Bailey lives 16 years after his death on 9/11

BOSTON — Monday marks 16 years since 9/11. On that tragic day, when United Flight 175 flew into the south tower of the World Trade Center, it took with it one of hockey's most beloved legends, former Boston Bruin Ace Bailey.

Bailey was a scout for the Los Angles Kings and on his way to L.A. for training camp. Bailey may be gone, but his legacy lives on at Floating Children’s Hospital in Boston.

Several years ago, the Ace Bailey Children's Foundation renovated the main entrance of the hospital with cartoon characters, known as the Toughlings, which help calm the nerves of children, like 3-year-old Ruby Millea, as they arrive for treatment.

"It put her at ease, she could walk around the walls, look at all the characters and know them a bit more,” Ruby’s father Mike Millea said.

Ruby has been at Floating Hospital for Children since July 4 for chemotherapy treatments.

"Definitely helped us because we were scared of coming in for the first time, not sure what to make of it, but the more comfortable she is, the more comfortable we are. Definitely a good feeling for us,” Millea said.

The Ace Bailey Children's Foundation was established in memory of Bailey shortly after he was killed on 9/11. Another project funded was Ace's Place, a play center where kids can hang out and get a break from their hospital rooms.

"It really keeps Ace alive, not that we ever lose him in our hearts. It keeps his memory alive and the memory of his spirit, his joy,” Executive Director of the Ace Bailey Children’s Foundation Barbara Pothier said.

The foundation is also funding phase two, which is expected to be completed next month, and will consist of painting each of the five pediatric emergency rooms with the adventures of the Toughlings.

It will include an autism-friendly room.

"This will be a room with a little less stimulation. We'll have the ability to change lighting, even the paint will be a little less vibrant and we'll be able to cover up medical equipment so kids won't be able to see it,” Chief of Pediatric Medicine at Floating Children’s Hospital Dr. Emory Petrack said.

Over the past 16 years, the Ace Bailey Foundation has raised $4 million, all of which has gone to projects at Floating Children's Hospital.

To learn more about the foundation and learn how you can donate, visit: http://www.acebailey.org/

Cox Media Group