Sen. Patty Ritchie, R-Heuvelton, and the Northern New York Community Foundation announced that former NFL quarterback Ryan Leaf will visit the North Country to share his struggles with behavioral health and addiction.

On May 24, Leaf will speak to approximately 1,600 high school students from St. Lawrence, and Jefferson counties at Watertown High School. That evening at 7 p.m. at the Watertown High School auditorium, there will be another forum for parents and families. At both sessions there will be allotted time for Q&A with the evening session being open to the public.

Seating for the evening event is limited and those wishing to attend must pre-register on Senator Ritchie’s website by visiting https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1Q8OZjG_qAd7Cwy9vESzzTBQ1S7uqXLtJlUjEcAHrwM4/viewform?edit_requested=true or by calling (315) 782-3418.

“I am a pleased to be able to partner with the Northern New York Community Foundation and to have Ryan share his message with North Country students and families,” said Senator Ritchie. “Local mental health and substance abuse organizations, as well as law enforcement and other community leaders work tirelessly to address the drug epidemic on a daily basis and need help getting their message out. I am hopeful that Ryan’s presentation will help personalize these issues and give hope to those struggling with mental health and addiction.”

After a highly decorated college football career, Leaf was the second overall draft pick in the 1998 NFL draft. Unfortunately, Leaf’s playing career was cut short due to his inability to cope with the stresses of the NFL, and as he puts it, “live on life’s terms”. The end of his football career weighed on Leaf heavily, both emotionally and mentally. He began to abuse prescription drugs, and what ensued was a decade-long battle with substance abuse that ultimately led to a failed suicide attempt and a near three-year stint in prison.

While serving his sentence, Leaf addressed the source of his mental and emotional anguish. He dealt honestly with his problems and came to understand the importance of accountability and self-worth. In 2014, when he left prison, Leaf was humbled and had a new outlook on life. He has since dedicated his life to recovery and has traveled the country in hopes of helping others through his cautionary tale for young people.