The residents of New Canaan community is struggling and recovering from the painful loss of Elliott Kropf, an active senior at New Canaan High School. The community has deeply mourned the loss of Elliott, who died on September 14. In one of the memorial tributes, the community has adopted a very emotionale action which is the placing of hockey sticks outside the houses as a sign of support.
Elliott Kropf: Remembering a Remarkable Young Man
A student of New Canaan High School, Elliott Kropf was an athlete, a friend and a member of the community. It was this same passion that he exhibited in his studies and on the sporting field. Though Kropf breathes no more, the town has been empty since the sad news of his demise broke out, as it enshrine virtues of compassion and benevolence.
Superintendent Dr. Bryan Luizzi has sent his official statement in different community. “We are deeply, I believe all the residents share the great loss within the community which is tragedy that affects everyone. However…I write new with great sorrow as in the night I’ve stricken with the shocking news that one among the seniors in high school of NCHS…” Dr. Luizzi said. He remarked: “Elliot was in student studies a very bright student in any subject at school and in extra studies and extra activities in sports was an athlete etc. a nice boy and friend, hats off to this handsome girl! All who have known and loved him will really miss him.”
In light of this unfortunate incident, Dr. Luizzi revised the schedule moving the school hours by two hours so that the students and staff could support one another and reflect on the tragic occurrence. The aim of this adjustment was to enable the students to have time to share and seek counseling services as need be.
Community Response and Support for Elliott Kropf
The New Canaan community has come together and is mourning at this time that Elliott died and it a clear indication of deep love from a community. Realizing the community’s engagement in such a wish, a member of the Winter Club Cam spoke to the audience that they must place hockey sticks on the doors as a sign of support. “I encourage you all to leave a hockey stick outside your door tonight. This act of support and affection… is insignificant, I know, but it is one step that we can take together at this time of sorrow and in the future at the time of reconstruction. Rewind. Let it stay in your mind,” this is what Cam’s message said.
However, even in this case, the non-profit organization New Canaan Cares through Executive Director Colleen Prostor Sunvic also made sure to sympathize with those who mourn. Our love went, included: Our love and prayer goes out to the family, friends and community members who lost a dear member of New Canaan community.” These are the support options that the organization has given in order for the community to withstand in these hard situations.
Crisis and Immediate Support Resources
For those struggling with grief and emotional distress, several confidential support services are available:
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988 Lifeline is a national service designed to assist individuals who are emotionally distressed and can be reached at all times. Community can call, text or web chat with trained staff.
Kids in Crisis: In addition the Kids in Crisis hotline provides emotional support and counseling to children and young adults, available around the clock. Across the country hotline services are available at Kids in Crisis or by 203 327 5437 KIDS.
CT Infoline (211): For families looking for services such as travel assistance or evacuation, they are able to reach out to CT Infoline. As this resource provides families with crisis teams that come to their homes. Call 211 or text 988 for their services at CT Infoline.
New Canaan Urgent Assessment Program: This program is available to the people of New Canaan and offers mental health assessments free of charge with bookings often available within 48 hours. For assessment please call phone number 866 542 4455 or go to New Canaan Urgent Assessment Program.
Supporting Grieving Teenagers
Grieving teenagers may require additional support during this difficult time. Here are some ways to provide effective support:
Open Communication: Encourage teens to share their feelings, but avoid pressuring them to talk. Creating a safe space for expression can be beneficial.
Normalize Grief: Assure teenagers that grief is a natural and valid response. Acknowledging their feelings and experiences can help them process their emotions.
Monitor Behavior: Be attentive to changes in mood or behavior that may indicate distress. Withdrawal, academic struggles, or risky behavior can signal the need for additional support.
Routine and Stability: Maintaining some normalcy in daily routines, while allowing for flexibility, can provide a sense of security and stability.
Model Healthy Coping: Demonstrate healthy ways to cope with grief, showing teens that it is okay to express their emotions and seek support when needed.
