WARNING: This story might be distressing for some readers. If you are in distress, or if you or someone you know are being bullied, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Kids Helpline on 1800 338 881 for anonymous, 24/7 counselling and advice.
A 13-year-old Brisbane high school student has tragically taken his own life after being bullied about his sexuality.
Tyrone Unsworth, a Year 7 student at Aspley State High School, was taunted for years about being gay before he killed himself, his devastated mum Amanda said.
“Tyrone ended up being gay and a lot of people started picking on him,” she told the Courier Mail.
“He was a really feminine male, he loved fashion, he loved make-up and the boys always picked on him, calling him gay-boy, faggot, fairy; it was a constant thing from Year 5.
“I feel like these people who were bullying Tyrone are the cause of why he is not here any more. They pushed him to the edge.”
He was hospitalised less than a month ago following a violent incident – allegedly with another student – outside the school grounds.
“When he came out of hospital he was a different boy … he just kept telling us all ‘I don’t want to go to school, I don’t want to end up back at hospital’,” his grandmother Twiggy Jones said.
Queensland Police confirmed there is an ongoing investigation into the incident. School principal Jacquita Miller said the school was not informed of any bullying incidents, and expressed her deep sadness at being unable to help Tyrone.
“He had such big ambitions for life, he wanted to be a vet and save animals, or he wanted to be a fashion designer,” she said.
“I will always remember his bright blue eyes, his deep dimples, that cheeky little smile, and the way we used to go shopping together and he used to tell me what I had to wear and what the latest fashions were.”
A GoFundMe has been set up by a friend of the family to help cover the cost of Tyrone’s funeral.
“Tyrone was a amazing young boy who had the world at his feet,” wrote Gypsie-Lee Edwards Kennard, who set up the page. “He was an adored son, grandson, brother, nephew and friend to many people. My condolences are with Tyrone’s family who are grieving such a sad sudden loss.
“If we could all help give Tyrone the best send off that he deserves and show him just how much he really was loved that would be much appreciated.
“Perhaps they are not stars in the sky, but rather openings where our loved ones shine down and let us know they are at peace…
“May you rest in peace Tyrone and your star shines bright. My thoughts are your family and friends.”
At the time of writing, the GoFundMe had already raised $4,300.
If you would like to make a contribution, you can do so here.
Source: Courier Mail.
Photos: Facebook.
