A few National Hockey League stars will be in Connecticut in two weeks to participate in a fundraiser designed to raise awareness for helping others struggling with depression.
A Darien family spoke exclusively with News 12 Connecticut to share their story in hope that no other family would have to live with the heartbreaking loss they do every day.
Rob Thorsen says 16-year-old Hayden Thorsen lit up every room he walked into with his infectious smile.
Hayden went to Darien High and was a hockey player for the Mid-Fairfield Junior Rangers Hockey team.
Hayden died by suicide last year, which the family says no one saw coming.
To honor him, his parents and sister have started a new awareness campaign called
Shoulder Check, which they'll be looking to do in schools where kids are encouraged to check in on each other.
On Aug. 3 at Terry Conners Ice Rink in Stamford, 24 National Hockey League stars have signed on to be at the event, including five New York Rangers. The pros will play a game in memory of Hayden.