Legacy of kindness after pain
Dolly’s tale touches Aust hearts
TICK and Kate Everett know first-hand the devastating effect bullying can have on a child.
When Amy “Dolly” Everett, 14, ended her life in January after relentless bullying online and in a Warwick schoolyard, news of the tragedy hit home for families across the country.
Ms Everett said it was sad that so many families identified with their story.
“We’re not different from any other family out there,” she said.
“We could’ve been anyone, Dolly could’ve been anyone.”
The Northern Territory cattle farmers vowed to honour Dolly’s memory by spreading a simple message: kindness matters.
Ten months on, the Dolly’s Dream foundation has been inundated with support.
Mr Everett said the positive impact of the foundation kept him going.
“There’s plenty of days where you don’t want to get out of bed and don’t want to think about it,” he said.
“But it’s the positive feedback and support from people that makes it worth it”.
The foundation, backed by children’s charity The Alannah and Madeline Foundation, has surpassed $1 million in donations to help keep children safe from bullying and violence.
It comes as the Alannah and Madeline Foundation launched the inaugural Buddy Run, Australia’s first anti-bullying fun run.
To be held during National Children’s Week on October 21, the 1km run will promote inclusion and respect.
Visit www.buddyrun.org.au for more information.