If you have heard John Halligan tell his story, how would you describe what you felt? We know this: The emotions will take you on a wild ride.
Sadness, Heartbreak, Shock. His 13-year-old son took his own life after being bullied online and in person since fifth grade.
Anger, Disbelief. How can kids be so cruel to one another?
Awe, Respect: How can Mr. Halligan have the fortitude to constantly talk about this? Why relive the pain? He does this to help others, to save lives, to save parents from ever having to endure what he did. He not only delivers a powerful story but also provides parents with strategies that they can use with their children when it comes to bullying, proper social media use, and teen depression.
If you are a student you will no doubt walk away thinking that computers and social media can be a blessing and a curse, and you need to use them responsibly. If you are a student, you should also walk away knowing that bullying goes against everything Xavier represents. If you are a parent you should walk away wanting to have a conversation with your son about proper use of social media if you have not done so. You’ll also walk away reminding yourself to be in tune with your son’s feelings.
Mr. John Halligan will present to freshmen and transfer students on Tuesday, March 9, during the school day. This was scheduled in the fall but postponed. As Dean of Students Nick Cerreta says, “His story is riveting and powerful, and reminds students that there is a face, a person, a heart, on the other end of the computer screen.”
That night Mr. Halligan will have a presentation open to all Xavier parents 6:30-8 p.m. in the Dining Hall. Social distancing guidelines will be in place. If you plan on attending the parent session please email Mr. Cerreta ([email protected]) by Friday, March 5.
More information can be found at ryanpatrickhalligan.org.