At 95 years old, Patricia Guzzan has become a beloved fixture at the Florida Panthers' home arena, where she has been a dedicated fan for nearly two decades.
Patricia considers the Panthers organization her "second home" and credits the warm treatment she receives from staff and fans as the reason she keeps returning.
"I love it. This is my second home," Patricia said. "I love the people who come in. They treat me like royalty."
Her dedication to the team has not gone unnoticed by the organization. For her birthday this year, the Panthers brought Patricia into the players' tunnel, where she got to high-five players and meet Carter Verhaeghe.
"I would have liked to have met all of them, but I'm not greedy. I was happy with one," Patricia joked about the special birthday experience.
Beyond her connection to the team, Patricia has formed meaningful relationships with fellow fans who have embraced her as family. She said three families regularly take her out to dinner, with one family even including her in their Thanksgiving celebration.
"One family took me out for Thanksgiving. They treat me as if I were their grandmother," Patricia said.
The 95-year-old fan has become a recognizable face at the arena, with strangers often waving to her during games.
"So many people that I don't even know come in, and they wave to me. And I don't even know who they are, but they see me sitting there, and they just wave. It's a lovely feeling," Patricia said.
When asked for life advice, Patricia offered simple but profound wisdom gained from nearly a century of experience.
"Just be happy. Don't argue with your people. Just make loads and loads of friends," Patricia said.
She praised the Panthers staff for creating a genuine family atmosphere at the arena.
"All the people that I work with are so good. They're so lovely. They're a genuine family," Patricia said.
To keep up with the Florida Panthers, visit their website at NHL.com/Panthers.
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