One of the most heartbreaking stories we have ever heard concerning the consequences of bullying.
The following was sent to Me via Facebook.
Let me introduce you to Drayke Hardman.
He was 12 years old.
This week, he hung himself with his favourite hoodie from his bunk bed.
His bunk bed.
“Children are resilient”
No.
They are people.
They have huge feelings and minimal coping skills because THEY ARE BABIES.
It’s our job to change the narrative.
OUR JOB.
It starts with us, as parents.
It stops with us, as parents.
His story is below.
Let it break your heart.
Let it change you.
Let it change all of us.
We have to do better.
Please, stop right now and talk to your kids.
ENOUGH.
“Drayke Andrew Hardman was born to his loving parents Samie and Andrew Hardman on May 26th 2009. Drayke was incredibly loved by his family, he loved sports and had such a kind spirit. Drayke just wanted to be friends with everyone. Drayke had the biggest, bluest eyes. Sadly, Drayke had been experiencing bullying at school. His bully would pick on Drayke for every little thing, but despite this, Drayke desperately tried to be his bully’s friend. His school and parents were aware, and his bully had been previously suspended for bullying Drayke. On Monday, Drayke had come home with a black eye, he confided in his sister that his bully had hurt him. Two days later, on February 9th, 2022 Drayke’s older sister found him hanging with his favourite hoodie from his bunk bed. Drayke’s father immediately started CPR until paramedics took over, after 15 minutes, his heart started beating but the damage had already been done. On February 10th, 2022 Drayke passed away surrounded by his family, he was 12 years old. After his death, his family started raising awareness for suicide and bullying. Drayke will forever be remembered as a loving boy with a kind heart. RIP Drayke (26th May 2009 – 10th February 2022)”
Please be kind and stand up for others. Be proactive. Teach your kids.
Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800 https://kidshelpline.com.au/
Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467 https://www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au/
Headspace: 1800 650 890 https://headspace.org.au/
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 https://www.beyondblue.org.au/
Lifeline: 13 11 14 https://www.lifeline.org.au/
