Bullied Teen Special Guest At Pens Game
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – Noah Brocklebank, 13, never dreamed he would get this close to his favorite team at CONSOL Energy Center.
"It's crazy, it's amazing to meet my favorite players," Brocklebank said.
Brocklebank was suffering from depression after being a victim of bullying.
The Columbia, Md. native even planned to take his own life on his birthday. His mother went to social media asking for help. Thousands responded with encouraging letters.
When Brocklebank talked about bullying on a segment of CBS News, he was wearing a Marc-Andre Fleury jersey.
Fleury saw the interview and he and several teammates made a video inviting Brocklebank to Pittsburgh.
After the morning skate, Brocklebank went to the locker room to meet Fleury and other Pens players.
Meanwhile, players went out of their way to make the teen feel welcome.
This special day is helping to change the 13-year-old's outlook.
"I think people are really nice and I think that people really do care about me and that something good really does come from other people," he said.
"It really has given him something positive to focus on," Brocklebank's mother Karen said. "He, like me, it's restored his faith in humanity."
If you are wondering why Brocklebank is such an avid Pens fan, his mother is originally from Squirrel Hill -- and she very grateful to the team.
"I love my hometown," Karen Brocklebank said. "This is amazing to me, I don't think it's hit him yet."
The boy now realizes he has a lot to live for.
"I feel a lot better now and I don't have those feelings anymore," he said.
RELATED LINKS
Pens To Invite Special Guest To Flyers Game
More Local News
