It seems that there is no end to bullying and its tragic consequences.
In the recent years, we have seen many cases in which children have taken their own lives due to being harassed and maltreated. Sadly, the start of 2018 is no different, as another pretty 14-year-old girl committed suicide.
Amy Jayne Everett, also known as Dolly, decided to end her life at 14 years of age. When she was merely 6 years old, she was photographed wearing an iconic Australian wide-brimmed hat made by Akubra Hats. Their hats are a symbol of an outback rural life.
As she was growing up, Dolly was gaining popularity. Soon, she became a well-recognized face of the Akubra company. Despite her fame, sorrow soon followed. Amy turned out to be a target of the bullies who were overflowing with jealousy.
On January 3, 2018, the young girl decided that she can’t take it anymore and ended her life. According to her father, Tick Everett, her goal was to “escape the evils of this world.” He knows that by ‘evils’ his daughter was actually referring to her bullies.
Four days after Amy’s suicide, Tick wrote an emotional post on Facebook.point 63 | “I would like to thank everybody for their kind and supportive words over the last few days it is truly amazing.point 157 | I also apologize that there are so many kind words that I have not yet replied to, so instead of wearing out another screen or keyboard I would like to offer my thanks in one big message.point 308 |
This week has been an example of how social media should be used; it has also been an example of how it shouldn’t be,” he wrote.point 111 | 1
Dolly’s father also addressed the issue of bullying and challenged Dolly’s bullies to step forward. “Firstly if by some chance the people who thought this was a joke and made themselves feel superior by the constant bullying and harassment see this post, please come to our service and witness the complete devastation you have created,” Tick wrote in his post.
The grieving father also addressed those who are getting bullied and told them to work together and not let the bullies win. Akubra Hats also found themselves “shocked and distressed.” The company came up with a Facebook post as well and is now working on anti-bullying campaigns.
The Everett family doesn’t want Amy’s life to be in vain. They have set up Dolly’s Dream, a foundation that supports positive changes and charities.
While the family will never get their daughter back, they remain strong and determined to preserve her memory. Please share this post to raise awareness about bullying and let us know how you believe this issue should be approached.