I was lucky to escape a strange hockey injury where I took a skate to my jugular during a game. I’ve spent decades battling PTSD.
The interview with Clint Malarchuk, a former NHL player and coach and author of “The Crazy Game: How I Survived in the Crease and Beyond,” served as the basis for this as-told-to piece. It has been condensed to improve clarity and length.
My NHL game on March 22, 1989, is still clearly in my memory. Even after more than 30 years, facing death will remain etched in your memories.
Seek assistance if you or someone you know is depressed or has considered self-harm or suicide thoughts. The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline can be reached in the US by calling or texting 988. It offers anonymous, free, round-the-clock support to individuals in need, as well as resources to help with crisis situations and best practices for professionals. You can also get help by texting “HOME” to 741741, which is the Crisis Text Line’s number. For individuals living outside of the US, the International Association for Suicide Prevention provides tools.
