Chris Simon diagnosed with stage 3 CTE after suicide

Chris Simon, a former NHL enforcer who died by suicide in March 2024, was diagnosed post-mortem with stage 3 chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative brain disease linked to repeated head trauma. His family released the findings through the Concussion Legacy Foundation to raise awareness about the urgent need for mental health resources for former athletes facing similar issues. Dr. Ann McKee, who conducted the analysis, noted that Simon exhibited severe CTE pathology affecting cognition and mood, likely contributing to his depression and memory problems. The Simon family expressed gratitude for the support from CTE researchers, while also voicing frustration over the NHL's ongoing denial regarding the risks associated with the sport. Simon's case adds to the growing evidence of a concerning link between professional hockey and long-term brain injuries, as highlighted by the Concussion Legacy Foundation. They emphasize the importance of addressing mental health needs and recognizing the signs of CTE in former players.