Gritty becomes 7-year-old boy's hero is life-changing moment

We are used to seeing Philadelphia Flyers mascot Gritty being a pain in the butt to fans in the stands and rival mascots around the league, however, the hairy, googly eyed mascot became a true hero this week.

CNN has documented a rare Gritty appearance off the ice, at Shriners Hospital for Children in Philadelphia on Tuesday, in which the mascot paid a surprise visit to Caiden O'Rourke, who as a result of two rare conditions has suffered the amputation of his lower right leg. Caiden is a double amputee who suffers a bone deformity and he regularly requires new prosthetics. He had a special demand for his newest prosthetic: he wanted it to adorned with the colors of the Flyers and the face of his favourite member, Gritty. 

Gritty he waddled on in to Caiden's hospital room, flanked by two Flyers cheerleaders and surprised the little boy who couldn’t stop smiling. He hugged his hero, who came him some presents, including a custom jersey to go with his custom prosthetic. 

We might know Gritty as a monster on the ice, but here, you have to admit he is the sweetest beast you will ever see. 

Great work, Gritty!