A grieving family from Wendell, North Carolina (USA), has spoken out after their beloved 13-year-old son died by suicide.
According to reports, Austin Pendergrass was an eighth-grade student at Wendell Middle School.
The boy’s aunt, Jessica Harris, said he was bullied before taking his own life.
“Austin was an amazing little boy,” Jessica said. “He loved turtles.”
“He was also very helpful. He would always pitch in and help with anything. He loved baking with his mom and siblings.”
On Wednesday evening, a memorial service was held for Austin in Knightdale, N.C., where balloons were released to honor his life. Attendees wore red and white, the 13-year-old’s favorite colors.
Austin’s mother, Jessica Pendergrass, said: “I wish Austin knew that all these people were here to support [him].”
“I wish he hadn’t felt so alone.”
According to reports, Austin lived part-time with his mother and part-time with his father.
His aunt told reporters that he had a tough year at school last year, in no small part due to bullying.
“Last year, he struggled a lot,” Jessica Harris said.
“And I think that was because of a few kids who were bullying him… because of a kid who was bullying him, from what I’ve been told.”
His grieving mother added: “It’s so sad. But I hope, I truly hope, that this can make other parents aware, to check on their kids, thoroughly, go through their social media, go through their phones, find out what’s going on. Teach their kids to be kind to other kids, even if they’re different. And just make sure that we listen to our kids and know what’s going on. And just hug your kids a little tighter.”
Earlier this week on Tuesday, the Wake County Board of Education addressed the tragic event during a meeting.
“The town of Wendell will surround the school with nothing but love and support,” said Heather Scott, District 1 School board member.
“We will cherish all the memories forever, but unfortunately, nothing will bring our sweetheart back,” Austin’s aunt said.
Bullying is unfortunately still a rampant plague in all sectors of society. While it often occurs among adults, it may be even more dangerous when it comes to children.
Parents, please pay attention to your children’s behavioral patterns, both inside and outside the home.
Join us in sending love to Austin Pendergrass’s family.
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