news

In the tragic story of Amy 'Dolly' Everett, there's one sentence that speaks volumes.

Amy ‘Dolly’ Everett was only 14 years old when last week, she took her own life.

Her family say the tragedy came after she was tormented online by bullies, with her father writing on Sunday that those who thought their bullying was a joke should “come to our service [for Dolly] and witness the complete devastation you have created”.

It’s a story that’s captured the collective minds of parents around Australia, who are at once terrified and angry that a teenager could be so “overwhelmed” by bullying as to feel that this horror was her only option.

The father-of-two described the “strength” of his “precious little angel,” and added that “Doll had the strength to do what she thought she had to do to escape the evil in this world”. It’s a narrative that at first might look like one of vengeance and victory – a way for Dolly to truly show those who hurt her what they had done. 

But within the harrowing statement shared by Dolly’s father Tick on Facebook, is a message we cannot lose when it comes to suicide.

“However,” wrote Tick, “unfortunately Dolly will never know the great pain and emptiness left behind”.

She will never know.

She will never know the gravity of her loss.

Dolly (right), her sister Meg, mum Kate and dad Tick. (Image via Facebook.)
ADVERTISEMENT

She will never know how much she was loved.

She will never know how much was awaiting her.

She will never know how much better things were going to get.

In the wake of her death, Dolly's family have shared the hope that their daughter's life will serve as a catalyst for social change, and encourage awareness of the impacts of bullying and harassment.

Photos of her smiling in a Christmas advertisement for Akubra Hats eight years ago have been circulated, along with happy photos with her family. Left unsaid is the message: Here is a young girl, with the world at her feet. Look what happened to her.

But there's a difference between Dolly the symbol and Dolly the person.

Dolly in a Christmas ad for Akubra. (Image via Facebook.)
ADVERTISEMENT

Dolly the person doesn't get to smile anymore. She doesn't get to see those who bullied her reflect on their actions and regret what they did. She doesn't get to see Australia mourn her and remember her. She doesn't get to see the flowers and the tears, the people dressed in her favourite colour, and she doesn't get to hear the beautiful words that will be spoken at her funeral on Friday.

Because she's not here.

There's no justice in suicide, and it's not the dramatic climax of a devastating story. It's the end. The complete end. And that's what Dolly's father managed to share.

"Dolly will never know the great pain and emptiness left behind."

There's so much she'll never know.

She was only 14.

If you or anyone you know needs support, you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or BeyondBlue on 1300 22 4636.

00:00 / ???