The family of former NHL player Claude Lemieux has decided to donate his brain to Boston University’s CTE Center for studies on the lasting impact of repeated head trauma, according to a statement issued Saturday by his daughter Claudia Lemieux Bishop.
The 60-year-old former hockey player took his own life on Thursday, officials confirmed. Just days before his death, he had carried the torch for the Montreal Canadiens before a playoff game. During his professional career spanning from 1983 to 2009, he participated in close to 1,500 NHL games across six different teams, earning recognition for his aggressive playing approach and clutch performance that helped secure four Stanley Cup championships.
According to the family’s statement, they have authorized the CTE Center to make public any research results using Lemieux’s name, while emphasizing that no assumptions should be made about potential diagnoses.
“Claude dedicated his post-playing career to helping the next generation,” the family said, referring to Lemieux becoming an agent. “By allowing his name to be connected to this research, we hope his life can contribute to greater understanding, more honest conversations and better protection for athletes and families in the years ahead.”
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, help is available by calling or texting 988 for the national suicide and crisis lifeline, or through online chat at 988lifeline.org.
