OCTOBER 26, 2017
The Silver Lining Foundation (SLF) extends its deepest sympathies to the family of 24-year-old Kimberly Teelucksingh, who tragically succumbed to thoughts of suicide on October 25th, 2017. Kimberly was a bright, young woman with a promising future and we are saddened by her passing. Kimberly, a former Youth Parliamentarian, was set to graduate from the University of the West Indies today. Her passing is mourned by us at SLF, her colleagues, family and friends.
SLF is founded on the principle that youth can mobilize other youths to create, facilitate and sustain a strong peer support network. We encourage the development of safe, supportive environments where people can lean on each other for support. Kimberly’s sudden and untimely passing is another reminder that we, as a society, must work together to create and develop these safe spaces.
We must protect and uplift each other. We must let our loved ones know that we can work together to live fruitful and fulfilling lives, even in the wake of adversities. We should not feel like we have to suffer in silence out of fear or not wanting to burden anyone. Communication is a large part of human existence; we must look out for one another. We must check in with our loved ones and let them know that they are valued and that they are loved.
We cannot keep losing our family and friends to suicide.
SLF’s resolve to encourage the development and sustainability of safer spaces to have open and honest dialogue is only fuelled by Kimberly’s passing. We must remind you that help is available and that it is, in fact, possible to lead productive and enjoyable lives, if we actively address mental health condition(s). We must take a serious and active role in mental health awareness.
We take this moment to reflect on Kimberly – a light that was sadly snuffed out too early but a light that will continue to spark a fire in us to work towards creating a better world. This tragedy, and others like it, will never be in vain. Our hearts, thoughts and prayers are with Kimberly and her family and with all who unfortunately ended their struggle with feeling like they had to endure this pain by themselves. Rest in serenity and in peace, Kimberly. Know that you are loved and you are missed.
If you know someone who is suicidal or are suicidal yourself, getting professional assistance and learning suicide prevention strategies can be of great help. If you feel like there is no one that you can talk to who will listen with compassion and respect, seek out suicide prevention lines to refer you to accessible resources or contact any of the following:
Childline (toll free, 24-Hours): (868) 800-4321
Lifeline (24-Hour): (868) 645-2800
Families in Action 24-Hour Hotline: 628-2333
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-7283
