Claude Lemieux’s death sparks renewed focus on CTE as family donates brain to research

Warning: This story contains discussion of suicide. Discretion is advised. If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. In Canada, call or text 988 for the Suicide Crisis Helpline.

The hockey world is still mourning the sudden death of former Montreal Canadien Claude Lemieux, as experts say his family’s decision to donate his brain to CTE research could help advance understanding of the devastating disease.

Lemieux died by suicide in Florida last week, just days after appearing in Montreal, where he carried a ceremonial torch into the Bell Centre for Game 3 of the Eastern Conference finals. He was 60 years old.

His family says it has since chosen to donate his brain to Boston University’s CTE Center, contributing to ongoing research into the long-term effects of repetitive traumatic brain injuries.

Dr. Chris Nowinski, a former professional wrestler turned neuroscientist and co-founder of the Concussion and CTE Foundation, praised the family’s decision. “I was very appreciative that the Lemieux family chose to donate his brain, independent of how his life ended,” Nowinski told Global News.

“I was playing through them until I couldn’t anymore, until I did too much damage to my brain,” said Nowinski, who retired after multiple concussions. “And I have never been the same.”

Lemieux played a physical style over a 21-year NHL career that spanned nearly 1,500 games with six teams from 1983-2009. Born in Buckingham, Que., he broke into the NHL with the Montreal Canadiens in 1983 and helped the team win the Stanley Cup in 1986. He was known for his ability to perform in big games on the way to winning the Stanley Cup four times.

In a statement regarding his passing, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman called Lemieux “one of the greatest big-game players in hockey history.”

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It is not confirmed whether chronic traumatic encephalopathy, or CTE, contributed to his death.

The degenerative brain disease, which can only be diagnosed after death, has been found in several former hockey players, including Henri Richard, Chris Simon and Bob Probert.

Experts say repeated head trauma can lead to a range of symptoms, including memory loss and severe depression. “They become so depressed and have so many symptoms. They can’t remember what they had for breakfast,” said Dr. Charles Tator, director of the Canadian Concussion Centre.

The family said it gave the CTE Center permission to publicly share any findings with Lemieux’s name, adding that no conclusions should be drawn regarding any diagnosis.

“Claude dedicated his post-playing career to helping the next generation,” his family said in a statement, referring to Lemieux becoming an agent.

There is currently no cure or treatment that can slow or stop the disease.

Nowinski said each donation is critical to advancing research. “Each brain that’s donated is getting us closer to a cure while also giving us better insights on how to prevent this in the next generation,” he said.

Tator says prevention remains key, recommending that body checking be banned for players under 18, arguing older athletes are better equipped to protect themselves and make informed decisions.

He also noted athletes often resist safety measures. “They are about the most non-compliant group of people you can imagine,” Tator said.

Despite the tragedy, experts say Lemieux’s legacy may ultimately help protect future players.

“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,” the Lemieux family said.

If you or someone you know is in crisis and needs help, resources are available. In case of an emergency, please call 911 for immediate help.

For immediate mental health support, call 988. For a directory of support services in your area, visit the  at suicideprevention.ca.

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