Nova Scotia is deeply mourning the loss of Selah Panacci-MacCallum, a beloved 10-year-old girl who passed away on October 24, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. Surrounded by her loving family at home, Selah’s passing has left an irreplaceable void in the hearts of all who knew her, yet her legacy of bravery, strength, and kindness continues to inspire her community.
What Happened: A Battle With Cancer Cut Too Short
Despite facing immense challenges, Selah’s bravery was nothing short of remarkable. Over the course of her illness, she maintained a positive outlook, capturing the hearts of everyone around her. Friends, family, and even those who met her briefly have described Selah as a vibrant, kind-hearted soul whose infectious smile brightened the toughest of days.
Her strength was evident throughout her treatment, where she became a symbol of courage for those around her. Her battle with cancer ended on October 24, when Selah passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family.
Who Was Selah Panacci-MacCallum?
Selah was the beloved daughter of J.P. MacCallum, the head coach of the March and Mill Co. Hunters U18 hockey team in Nova Scotia. Her father’s role in the local hockey community made their family well-known and cherished.
Selah was often seen at games, where she was the team’s most enthusiastic supporter. It was through her father’s involvement in the community and her own natural charm that Selah quickly became a familiar face at local hockey rinks. Known for her love of life and her deeply compassionate nature, she touched everyone she met.
Career, Legacy, or Case Details: A Hockey Community Unites to Honor Selah
In the wake of Selah’s passing, the hockey community came together to pay tribute to her life and spirit. A special fundraising game was held in her honor, with NHL star Brad Marchand stepping in as a guest coach for the Hunters U18 team.
Marchand, currently with the Florida Panthers, took a leave of absence to support his long-time friend, J.P. MacCallum. The event was more than just a hockey game—it was an outpouring of love, unity, and remembrance for Selah. Fans, players, and parents wore ribbons and jerseys in her memory, and the rink was filled with emotional tributes, including moments of silence, to celebrate the young girl who reminded everyone what it truly means to fight with heart.
“I think this is bigger than hockey,” one attendee shared. “This is about honoring Selah, whose courage showed us the true meaning of resilience and love.”
Public and Social Media Reactions
The response from the community and beyond has been overwhelming. Messages of condolence have poured in from across Canada and the hockey world, with many moved by the emotional display of solidarity. Brad Marchand’s gesture of returning home to support the MacCallum family was widely praised, reflecting the deep ties within the hockey community and the broader human spirit of compassion.
Official Statements or What Happens Next: Continuing Selah’s Legacy
The MacCallum family has expressed their gratitude for the overwhelming support they’ve received from friends, family, and the community during this incredibly difficult time. They have shared that plans for a memorial scholarship fund in Selah’s name are underway, aimed at supporting young athletes who exemplify the courage, teamwork, and perseverance Selah displayed throughout her life.
This scholarship will serve as a lasting tribute to Selah’s legacy, ensuring that her values continue to inspire the next generation of athletes. GoFundMe
Closing Line
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
Selah Panacci-MacCallum will forever be remembered as a brave young girl whose story touched hearts around the world. Through her enduring spirit, her memory will continue to inspire acts of love and kindness, and her legacy will live on in the Selah Strong Foundation, supporting future athletes and those who embody her strength.
