Dear editor,
In regard to Leigh Ball's letter to the editor of last week on Other teens tempted, too, there probably is not a worse scenario for a family to face than to lose a child to teen suicide.
My deepest condolences to all those who have lost loved ones to this brutal shock when often the victim is talented beyond belief and has so much to live for.
Leigh, I understand your worry and concern that other teens will follow suit, thinking there is a better place than the challenges of planet earth. I don't see that putting a victim on the front page is sensational; it is a way for a community to finally come to terms with a great loss and a series of tragedies and make decisions on how change may be instituted in the schools and the social system.
Openness is a far better approach as it is important the community of the Comox Valley grieve together. It is when unfortunate events occur like this that teens are now gathering together forming discussion groups to work towards ending the hidden truth of the depression and hopelessness that many feel, not only teens.
It is human to feel hopelessness and I'm sure everyone has at least once thought of the uselessness of our existence but have had the coping skills or support to work through to the positive side.
Others do not find it easy to manage. With our Liberal government giving less and less social support to communities and people needing more because of the times we live in ordinary citizens in communities are forced to take on the issues in hope of making change.
When we can open our hearts and feelings to each other and know that whatever is going on is human and we are all the same.
Gladys Hills,
Comox