On July 22, 2025, the Hotte family of Strathcona County celebrated what should have been one of the happiest moments of their lives—the arrival of their fourth child, baby Ida.
Her birth was met with joy and anticipation, but within hours, the family’s joy turned to fear when Ida suffered severe complications. She was rushed to the NICU, where doctors and nurses fought to stabilize her.
For nearly two weeks, Ida’s parents, Matt and Cassie Hotte, balanced hope and heartbreak, spending long days and nights at her bedside. The family drew strength from an outpouring of community support—neighbors brought meals, friends cared for their older children, and countless prayers were lifted on Ida’s behalf.
On August 5, 2025, those prayers were answered: Ida was finally well enough to come home. The Hottes began adjusting to life as a family of six, grateful to be together again.
Tragically, just three days later, on August 8, 2025, their world was shattered. Matt was involved in a devastating head-on collision. His truck was torn apart, and he was ejected from the vehicle.
Emergency responders quickly recognized the severity of his injuries, and STARS Air Ambulance transported him to the hospital. Since the crash, Matt has undergone multiple surgeries and remains intubated. His recovery will be long and uncertain, requiring extensive medical care and rehabilitation.
Cassie has barely left Matt’s side, returning home only briefly to gather necessities or spend brief moments with their children. Their older kids—Porter, Faron, and Hazel—have been staying with close family friends, the Gambles, who also cared for them during Ida’s NICU stay.
Baby Ida is being lovingly looked after by the Torstensen family, neighbors and fellow church members, ensuring she is safe and comforted while her parents face this crisis.
Matt, the family’s sole provider, works at Strong’s Garage, a well-known local business he runs with close friend Jim. His absence has left not only an emotional void at home but also a financial strain that is quickly growing.
Without his income, the Hottes are facing significant challenges—paying for everyday expenses, ongoing medical costs, and the adjustments required for Matt’s long-term recovery.
Matt is deeply rooted in the Strathcona County community. He is known for his passion for bluegrass music, his hands-on involvement in the beloved Alberta T Racing event hosted annually by the Hotte family in Bruderheim, and his love of antique and vintage cars.
His generosity has touched countless people—whether it’s lending his restored vehicles for parades and events or sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm with fellow enthusiasts. His passion reaches far beyond Alberta through Strong’s Garage’s YouTube channel, where he and Jim have earned a global following of car lovers.
For those who know the Hottes, this family has always been the first to step up when someone else is in need. Now, it’s the community’s turn to show up for them. Friends, loved ones, and Strong’s Garage have come together to launch a GoFundMe campaign to help ease the financial burden and allow Matt, Cassie, and their children to focus on healing.
Donations will go directly toward supporting the family’s living expenses, covering medical costs, and ensuring that Cassie can remain by Matt’s side throughout his recovery. Every contribution, no matter the size, will make a meaningful difference.
The road ahead will be challenging, but the Hotte family’s strength, combined with the compassion of their community, will help them face it together. Those wishing to help can visit the GoFundMe page and share it widely to spread awareness.