Parents carry on anti-bullying message

WILLIAMSVILLE, N.Y. (WIVB) - A young life has been cut tragically short by suicide. Now, two grief stricken parents are vowing to carry on their son's message.

Jamey Rodemeyer's parents believe years of bullying drove their son to suicide. The Williamsville North freshman took his life Sunday, he was only 14 years old.

Jamey Rodemeyer posted a message online hoping that others would be inspired by his struggle with bullying. A part of the message reads, “That's all you have to do. Just love yourself and you're set. And I promise you, it'll get better.” >> click here to watch his full video on YouTube

Soon after coming home from a family camping trip, Jamey was found dead Sunday. His parents say he was always under pressure because of struggles with his sexuality.

Jamey’s mother Tracy Rodemeyer said, "So he hung around with the girls a lot, so then the teasing started happening like 'Oh you're such a girl or you're gay or whatever and that bothered him for many years."

Now, they want to carry in his message in hopes of preventing another tragedy like this one.

Jamey’s father Tim Rodemeyer said, "To the kids who are bullying they have to realize that words are very powerful and what you think is just fun and games isn't to some people, and you are destroying a lot of lives."

If you know a local teen who needs support, Gay and Lesbian Youth Services of Western New York is located on Delaware Avenue in Downtown Buffalo.   You can reach them at 855-0221 and at  glyswny.org

There are also national places to turn to for help.  They are all free and confidential and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

The Trevor Project
24/7 Suicide Hotline for GLBTQI Youth
1-866-4-U-Trevor
www.thetrevorproject.org

USA National Suicide Prevention Hotline
24/7, Free & Confidential
1-800-SUICIDE
1-800-273-Talk

How to Get Help from Bullies?
www.StopBullying.gov