27/04/2023
A must read, we all know someone and more, everyday so sad, Dolly's Grandmother in my family, breaks our hearts, have that conversation without judgement, we must stop the Bullies, be kind, how hard is it?
Do it for Dolly and every Angel we have lost
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Trigger Warning - this post discusses su***de, if this raises issues for you please reach out to our support line, it is free and available 24/7 - 0488 881 033.
This story comes from Vanessa, she is sharing it in the hope that it will remind parents of the importance of speaking about bullying even if no warning signs are present.
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His Name Is James.
This week (22/04) will be the 3rd anniversary of my son Jamesโ death by su***de.
James was 14 and should be celebrating his 18th birthday on August 30th.
James had pressures in his life surrounding online and school bullying which he never let on the extent of.
Born in 2005, James was an only child for 11 beautiful years before his little sister came along in 2016.
He was the love and light of my life and grew in to a selfless, kind, outgoing, tenacious, and funny young man with many good friends.
James loved Horses, dogs, motor bikes, adventures, music, his family and friends.
Dollyโs Dream was known to me, and to James, before his death.
I changed my Facebook profile picture, I bought the boots, I was aware of Dollyโs tragedy and wanted to help any way I could to spread awareness.
I never once thought to start the su***de or bullying conversation with my Son. It wasnโt needed?
There were no signs? This was something that was not close to homeโฆ.Until it was.
This photo was a normal day, a selfie while hugging after a good laugh.
This photo was the last time I seen James alive. He took his own life on the front veranda after a day of riding his motorbike, his phone in hand.
Through my work platform at Hartley Valley Holiday Farm in NSW we will be hosting a Do It For Dolly Day and fundraiser in May, with a gymkhana and lunch.
The message and work Dollyโs Dream do is Incredibly important, and I hope this story can help a parent or friend to reach out and talk about this to anyone you think may be struggling, or even those you would never think are.
I wish I had.
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Remember. if you are concerned about a child or young person,
please seek help.
Speak to a trusted GP, school wellbeing staff, or a helpline such as:
Dollyโs Dream Support Line 0488 881 033
Parentline in your state or territory
Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800
headspace 1800 650 890
Lifeline 13 11 14