MOTHER OF BULLIED SUICIDE VICTIM MAKES A PLEA TO AMERICA
Dear America:
My name is Tammy Aaberg. I am the mother to Justin Aaberg, a 15-year-old student who took his own life this past July. I found out after he died that he was bullied due to his sexual orientation. I’m also hearing from youth all over the district and throughout the country of many others that are undergoing the same types of harassment. Also, as many of you know, too many have taken their own lives due to feelings of self hate brought on by this intolerable abuse, just as Justin must have suffered before making that final decision.
I want to let you all know that there is hope. There are people out there who understand and accept you and are willing to listen. If you are bullied for any reason, whether it be for race, religion, sexual orientation, or anything else, please, please tell someone. In Justin’s case, he kept most everything to himself. You cannot do this. You need to talk to someone and get your feelings out, let them be heard by someone who supports you. Do not suffer in silence.
If you are an LGBTQ youth in crisis, there is help. Please contact the Trevor Project at 866-488-7386. Anyone in crisis who has feelings of suicide the Suicide Awareness Voices of Education is available at 1-800-273-8255.
With hope and love,
Tammy Aaberg
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