Draven Rodriguez was the standout senior from Schenectady High School whose proposed yearbook photo with his cat went viral last fall. Tragically, Draven took his own life on Thursday at the age of 17.

Draven made national news because of his desire to include his cat with him in his yearbook photo. Eventually it was decided that he could have the photo in the yearbook, but in a special section to benefit the ASPCA. Even his principal joined in. It is always tragic when a young life is lost, but when they take their own life it's even worse. According to an article in the Albany Times Union,

'He made friends wherever he went,' said Rodriguez's father, Jonathan Stewart. 'He had friends all over the country — people he'd met at youth-leadership conferences, online, just around town.'

Depression is such a serious situation in this country and it claims innocent and wonderful lives like Draven's every day. Please, if you know of anyone who may need help, or if you need help yourself call the suicide prevention hotline at 1-800-273-8255.

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