It's never easy when tragedy strikes in the NHL family. On Saturday, news broke that the 14-year-old daughter of Ottawa Senators assistant coach Luke Richardson committed suicide. This is a terrible tragedy and my heart goes out to the Richardson family.
Suicide prevention is a cause that hits home to me. I have several friends who have had issues with self-harm, and some have attempted suicide. One high school classmate succeeded on December 26, 2003. I myself have struggled with depression, and now hold a degree in psychology due to my interest in mental health.
The Richardson family has asked for donations to be made to the youth program of the Royal Ottawa Foundation for Mental Health. I'd also like to ask people to donate to the Hopeline (Kristin Brooks Hope Center). If anyone feels like they need someone to talk to, they can call 1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433) to speak to someone 24 hours a day. The Hopeline is a great cause with phenomenal people. After I donated in honor of my high school classmate, I got a personalized thank you card from the founder, Reese Butler, asking if I wanted to notify her family of my donation. They do wonderful work.
2 comments:
As a parent of teenagers, I cannot even imagine the grief the family is going through. My heart goes out to them and thank you for spreading awareness of this very important issue....
Hadn't heard this until now. Heartbreaking.
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