So, what is private information and what is public? With social media these days, private stuff can become public in a matter of hours/minutes …. no, make that nanoseconds. When did technology change so much or is this a new example of ‘time flying by’? As the days go by, I sit and read articles and stories that pertain to those issues related to Amanda. It shocks and stuns me to see what is happening in the outside world. I sometimes think (but not often), thank goodness Amanda no longer has to deal with these problems. My concerns are that the ‘problems’ often take too long in finding solutions. There was an article in the Province Newspaper today – ‘We are living in hell’: B.C. mom desperate for help for suicidal daughter. It was an interesting one. It was a follow-up to one that was written a couple of weeks ago. Yes, the reporter called me and I gave my thoughts.
My thoughts and opinions regarding mental health issues + youth have been very strong lately. Even more so reading articles. I have been getting messages here and there from families since way back in November/December. This is one that I got recently and it makes me happy that Amanda is making a difference – ” ….. we fought so hard to keep her there (at hospital) when Dr’s were trying to force a discharge. We fought b/c of you & Amanda. So if there is even the tiniest shred of relief in knowing you undoubtedly saved her life & kept us from the pain you feel, pls know that.”
How can I not be proud of my daughter. Although her challenges and experiences were horrific and challenging, she is providing lessons for others. It may not be as vast as we would like it, but whatever and whoevers life she has changed and made better is all that she or I would have wanted. As I said way back in October of 2012, ‘if Amanda’s story only saves one child, then that is worthwhile’. But it has been more than only one kid, it has been way more.
It exhausts me to keep up the stream. I want to reach out and hear stories and help. But I know I can’t do it all. Once again, thank you to my Snowflake elves who send me articles, who look after my well being and lastly, who encourage me when I am down.
It’s weird to say ‘I love you’ to people you have never met but truly, those are words that I mean to all of you.
Love me… xoxo
Carol Todd's Snowflakes 
It is good that kids are getting help who need it. It good that bullied kids & their parents will be listened to more now. It is still sad that so many parents have to lose their kid to bullycide & mental illness before things get moving … Amanda did make a resounding difference. I really hope that one day “bullycide” will become an outdated term.♥
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Boxer Evander Holyfield picked the right cause to support because you are also a “fighter” with a heart of gold. I guess a person can never really care or give too much, but I believe you have surpassed that already. I hope I’m not out of place when I say that I detect a desire for some “downtime” for yourself. You have certainly earned it…and it doesn’t imply you quit by any means… I am a “quote fanatic” and over the years have found so many that can actually help me if I really absorb the words, so here is another one for you.
Tension is who you think you should be. Relaxation is who you are. ~Chinese Proverb
I hope you find some meaning from these simple words…I know wherever you are, or go, Amanda is right by your side…you gotta believe that!
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Yes…. Hugs 2U Carol, Amanda would be so proud of you 🙂
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(((Hugs))) to you Carol. Thinking of you.
Becky
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