A tragedy saw a 12-year-old girl die by suicide after being bullied, and she shared a heartbreaking final post.
Ella Catley-Crawford was found on October 27 and passed away a week later at Queensland Children’s Hospital, per the Daily Mail.
Her family says she had endured bullying at her school in Brisbane, which led her to feel as though “she was the problem.”
“We are numb and broken, especially for our sister, Julie, who has lost her best friend, the love of her life, and her only child,” her family expressed in a fundraiser to support Ella’s mother. “Ella was a bright and quirky 12-year-old who faced unimaginable challenges.”
The GoFundMe page continued: "After just one term, she became the victim of a cruel catfishing scheme orchestrated by girls who preyed on her vulnerability.
"They shared her personal photos across social media, leading to bullying, isolation, and the start of a difficult mental health journey of trying to fit in."
In a heartbreaking TikTok post just hours before she lost her life, Ella left a haunting message: “One day you’ll never see me again,” as reported by News.com.au.
Friends responded with messages of love and support, urging her to reach out. “Nooo, I’m here for you, Ella.
Always here to talk,” one friend wrote, while another added: “I hope it all gets better,” to which Ella responded: “That means a lot.”
Ella had joined her new school this year on an academic scholarship. Her principal at Redlands College, Andrew Johnson, expressed condolences to Year 7 parents in a message, according to The Courier-Mail.
Ella’s mother shared with her netball club that playing netball had been her “happy place,” with the Raiders Netball Club Redlands mourning her loss in a public statement: “Our love, thoughts, and prayers are with Ella’s family, and we are so deeply sorry for the loss of such a beautiful young girl.”
The family’s statement on their GoFundMe page voiced anger and sadness at the systems in place. “If you ask if we are angry – yes, we are. If you ask if we are sad – absolutely. And if you ask if the system let her down – it did.”
The statement added: "In her final act of kindness, Ella was able to donate her organs through Donate Life, giving the gift of life to others —a testament to her compassionate spirit."
At the time of writing, the fundraiser has gained AU$141,000 ($93,000).
In regards to what the money will be used for, the family said: "We want to provide Ella with a dignified funeral and support her mother, Julie, who needs time off work to heal and seek therapy.
"No parent should have to plan their child's funeral, and we are asking for your kindness and generosity during this painful time.
"Every contribution will go directly to Ella’s funeral costs, and we will also donate 10% to suicide prevention initiatives to help others who may be struggling."
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org.
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