Tom's Story
Tom was a 12 year old boy full of love, and smiles. He had a
deep compassion for learning and aviation. Tom appreciated the
individuality and differences among his peers and encouraged friendships
among all. On February 8, 2006 Tom came home from school, threw down his
back pack on the kitchen floor, went out to our barn and hung himself.
In that instance our lives changed forever. We were in complete shock.
Nothing Tom had done or said before his death had answered our questions
of - why? Slowly as days went by we were able to piece together bits of
information, our son was the victim of bullycide. Tom had been bullied
on the school bus and in the hallways of school. We don't know the full
extent of what he suffered, he didn't tell us, so we'll never know. But
it was enough that when the kids on the bus told him different ways he
could take his life, he did.
B.U.L.L.Y was founded due to this tragic event. We strive to raise awareness and prevent bullying. We hope to carry on Tom's mission inspiring others to appreciate their differences. Our goal ultimately is to build understanding, love, and learning for youth by empowering them to become Bully-Proof.