Chelsie is the Red Cross Pink Day Youth Ambassador for 2016 in Saskatchewan and is committed to sharing her story of bullying that she endured in high school. She sat down with our communications team for a question and answer session to discuss.
Chelsie, how did bullying impact your life? What changes did you notice in yourself?
The bullying started in Grade 11 and I felt excluded from my group of friends. The impact of this changed me. At first, I noticed negative changes and feelings, like depression, loneliness and hurt. But with time and some hard work, these negative changes turned into a positive new me. I have risen above this bullying behaviour, and worked very hard to finish my Grade 12 year early. I am now on to bigger and better things. I have graduated high school and have strived to make changes in my life, which have turned me into the strong individual I have become.
Who were the people you looked to the most for help?
In my experiences with bullying I have had an incredible amount of support. My family (aunties, uncles, cousins, my mom and my sister) are all very close to me, and I looked to them a tremendous amount for their guidance and help. Along with my family, I also looked up to a few close friends and my boyfriend. These people have helped in the sense that they listened, yet didn't react, which is what I needed in those moments.
What message do you want to send to other kids who are struggling to deal with bullying behaviour?
I would say that you should never try to deal with it alone. Find someone who you can trust and reach out to. It isn't easy to stand up for yourself when being bullied, but if you have someone on your side, you will have an effective active bystander. Also, stay strong. Things get better, and you will come out on top. You will rise above those who decided to make you feel less than what you are.
What would you say to someone who says “bullying is just a part of growing up”?
I would just like to say the feelings I felt when I was bullied are not normal. I don't believe that any kid should have to go through something like this just because they are growing up. Bullying is something that has always existed, but in our generation it’s even worse because of factors such as social media. This has allowed bullying to be ongoing, 24 hours a day, with no break. This is not part of growing up.
Why is Red Cross Pink Day so important to you?
Red Cross Pink Day is a worldwide movement that is so important to me because it is my opportunity to educate, inspire and bring awareness to bullying issues. I believe that Pink Day is my chance to reach out to people, and work hard to prevent anyone from going through what I have.
For more information on Red Cross Pink Day in Saskatchewan, presented by RBC, head to www.redcross.ca/pinksk where you can find resources for youth, schools and teachers as well as businesses to help deal with bullying behaviour in schools and communities, as well as how to take part in Pink Day on February 24, 2016.
Find out more about Red Cross programs for violence, bullying and abuse prevention, including specific information for youth and parents.