UPDATE:
In a gesture to honor the Elliott Kropf, the community has been encouraged to place hockey sticks outside their homes as a symbolic gesture. Cam, a Winter Club member, wrote to the community:
“I encourage you all to leave a hockey stick outside your door tonight. This gesture of solidarity and caring…is a step, minuscule as it may seem, that we can take together in the process of grieving—and in time, of healing—that lies in front of us.”
The New Canaan community is grieving the loss of Elliott Kropf, a senior at New Canaan High School, who tragically passed away on September 14 suddenly. Elliott was remembered as a dedicated student, athlete, and friend.
Superintendent Dr. Bryan Luizzi, issued a statement on Sunday morning, Set. 15 which said in part, “With great sadness, I am writing to share the heartbreaking news that one of our NCHS seniors, Elliott Kropf, passed away last night. Elliott was a strong student, an excellent athlete, a kind young man, and a wonderful friend, and he will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved him.”
Dr. Luizzi restructured the schedule of classes on Monday so that NCHS operated on a two-hour delay in order to provide time for Elliott’s friends to gather together in support and love, and, if desired, speak with the school’s counselors and staff.
“Counselors will also be available throughout the day tomorrow and in the coming days,” he explained, “and I encourage you to reach out anytime if we can be of assistance for you, your family, or someone else in need.”
Dr. Luizzi went on to say, “My heart breaks for Elliott, his family, and all who knew and loved him. Together, let’s keep them all in our thoughts and prayers as we support one another during this challenging time.”
New Canaan Cares also issued a statement from the Executive Director, Colleen Prostor, which read, “Our love and prayers go out to the family, friends, and community members who are grieving after the loss of a precious New Canaan community member.” The statement offered resources available to the community. (https://www.newcanaancares.org)
Crisis and Immediate Support Resources
New Canaan residents are encouraged to utilize several confidential support services available for those struggling:
– 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: This national resource offers round-the-clock confidential support for anyone in emotional distress. Community members can call, text, or chat online with trained professionals at (https://988lifeline.org).
– Kids in Crisis: For children and teenagers, the Kids in Crisis hotline provides 24/7 confidential support. Their services are available at (203) 327-5437 (KIDS), offering emotional guidance and counseling for young people grappling with grief. (https://www.kidsincrisis.org).
– CT Infoline (211): Families in need of more personalized assistance, including mobile crisis intervention, can contact CT Infoline. This service connects families with crisis teams that can travel to homes if in-person support is required. Call 211 from any phone or text 988 for access to their services.(https://www.211ct.org).
– New Canaan Urgent Assessment Program: This local program provides free mental health assessments to New Canaan residents. The service, available to children, adolescents, and adults, typically offers appointments within 48 hours. Call (866) 542-4455 to schedule an assessment (https://www.silverhillhospital.org/programs/new-canaan-urgent-assessment-program).
Supporting Grieving Teenagers
- Open Communication: Encourage teens to share their emotions, but avoid forcing them to talk. Being available and patient can help create a safe space.
- Normalize Grief: Reassure teenagers that grief is a natural response and that their feelings, no matter how varied, are valid.
- Monitor Behavior: Be mindful of changes in mood or behavior that may indicate distress. Some teens may exhibit withdrawal, academic struggles, or risky behavior, which can signal that they need more support.
- Routine and Stability: Maintaining some normalcy in daily routines, while allowing flexibility, can provide a sense of security.
- Model Healthy Coping: Demonstrate your own healthy ways of coping with grief, showing teens that it’s okay to express their feelings.
Additional Resources for Grief Support
Several organizations offer resources to help families discuss grief with children and teenagers. These materials provide guidance on age-appropriate ways to address loss:
– Helping Children Cope with Grief: [Child Mind Institute](https://childmind.org) provides resources for talking to children about death and helping them navigate their grief.
– Dougy Center for Grieving Children and Families: Offers comprehensive materials for families dealing with grief. [Visit the Dougy Center](https://www.dougy.org).
– New Canaan Cares Resource Page: This local organization provides community-based workshops, counseling sessions, and grief support resources. [Explore New Canaan Cares Resources](https://www.newcanaancares.org).
