Parents share anti-bullying message

BATAVIA, N.Y. (WIVB) - A family who lost their son to suicide, a result of bullying, is sharing their story with an audience in Genesee County.

It was just a little more than two months ago that Jamey Rodemeyer committed suicide, but in that time, much has changed in the way we view bullying.

Tuesday night, his family will continue to fight for their son’s message.

In a YouTube video posted in May, Jamey Rodemeyer said, "Hi this is Jamey from Buffalo, NY and I'm here to tell you it does get better."

Jamey Rodemeyer's own words couldn't help himself. After years of being tormented over his sexuality, the Williamsville North freshman took his own life.

Since that tragic day, Jamey's parents Tim and Tracy have said they'll be activists to keep this from happening to other students.

Tuesday evening, Tim and Tracy Rodemeyer will be two of the speakers at the Genesee Community College in Batavia, at 5 p.m. The Rodemeyers were invited by student groups, the Gay Straight Alliance and Christian Students United.

Since Jamey’s death, a full on assault against the bullying issue has stormed the nation. The family has appeared on talk shows around the country and support has come all over the world, including from Jamey's idol Lady Gaga.

His parents say there have been improvements, but there is still a long way to go to stop the issue completely.

Jamey’s mother Tracey said, “Within the first day of the incident happening, it was pure sadness for the family, but then when we see what we can do with getting his word out there.”

Jamey’s father Tim 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."

In Jamey’s video on YouTube he said, "I have so much support from people I don't even know online, I know that sounds creepy but they're so nice and caring and they don't ever want me to die."