Hear Us, Resources, Stories
Project Semicolon
November 25, 2016 - Hear Us, Resources, Stories
When Justis told me about the death of LEXI WILLIAMS (16) in Gastonia, North Carolina on November 21, I was again speechless. He’d received a Facebook message from a friend who was a friend of Lexi’s. News of Lexi’s suicide, by jumping off the Cox Bridge into I-85 traffic, has been shared by thousands across Facebook and Twitter.
I read many tweets from Lexi. She knew she needed help and asked for it, MANY times. There were countless signs and too many warnings to cite.
I didn’t know Lexi but I can’t help wondering if folks witnessing her very public struggle raised a flag? Did they know Lexi had options and hope could be found? Did anyone attempt to take action to save Lexi?
Is there a way to show love and provide support for teens in crisis while they are still living to benefit from it? Is there a real way to stop teen suicide?
Questions but no judgments here.
As a single mom with a demanding technology job, I know I’ve missed my share of crisis signs. With my son, I’ve been guilty of overlooking the stress and burden of living up to everyone’s overly high expectations. At times I’ve diminished teen issues because hell, I’m not walking in teen shoes. Admittedly, there’s much about “teen life” I don’t get.
But I want to. I want to see a sign and move QUICKLY in a way that protects the life of a young person who has EVERYTHING to live for.
I want to talk about action and work with people who are taking action. I want to answer my own question, what could we have done to save Lexi, so we can work to prevent the next “Lexi”?
If you are a teen or know a teen who needs to know there’s hope, we are here. See Something, Say Something is in this fight for the long-haul and accompanied by powerful partners – Project Semicolon and Crisis Text Line, we’re gonna kick hopelessness in the ass!
I’m no expert or mental health professional. I have not lost a child to suicide, and I’m fighting every day to keep it that way.
Checkout PROJECT SEMICOLON and Amy Bleuel. Hope is alive.
Your story is not over . . .
Luckie, mom/warrior
