14-year-old Amy Everett – known to friends and family as ‘Dolly’ – tragically ended her life last week.
The devastated family of the teenager – who had starred in past Christmas adverts for iconic Australian hat-maker Akubra – confirmed her passing in an emotional Facebook post, with her father, Tick, describing the harassment his daughter endured as ‘evil’.
‘Well were do I start,’ Tick wrote. ‘I would like to thank everybody for their kind and suportive words over the last few days it is truly amazing.
‘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.
‘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,’ the devastated dad went on.
‘If we can help other precious lives from being lost and the suffering of so many, then Doll's life will not be wasted.
‘I know for some suicide is considered cowardly but I guarantee those people wouldn't have half the strength that my precious little angel had, Doll had the strength to do what she thought she had to do to escape the evil in this world.
‘However unfortunately Dolly will never know the great pain and emptiness left behind.
‘In saying this I have a couple of challenges. 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.
‘The second is for the strong ones, lets stop the bullies no matter where, but especially in our kids, as the old saying goes.
'You will never know what have until it's gone. Thank you all again #stopbullingnow #angelgirl #dolly #speaknowevenifyourvoiceshakes.'
Akubra Hats also paid tribute to the youngster in an emotional Facebook post – accompanied by a beautiful photo of Dolly, taken eight years ago.
‘This is not an easy post to write. We were shocked and distressed to hear of the passing of "Dolly" - the young girl many of you will recognise as the face of our past Christmas adverts,’ the company said.
‘Dolly chose to end her life last week due to bullying. She was not even 15 years old.
‘To think that anyone could feel so overwhelmed and that this was their only option is unfathomable.
‘Bullying of any type is unacceptable. It is up to us to stand up when we see any kind of bullying behaviour. Dolly could be anyone's daughter, sister, friend.
‘We need to make sure that anyone in crisis knows there is always someone to talk to. Be a friend, check up on your mates.
‘Our hearts go out to her family and friends.’
If you have been affected by the issues raised in this story and need someone to talk to, help is available from Lifeline on 13 11 14.
This article originally appeared on New Idea.
