Father Shares Poignant Anti-Bullying Message

The devastating effects bullying had on his son and their family echoed throughout Ward Melville High School and P.J. Gelinas Junior High School when John Halligan presented the anti-bullying program, Ryan’s Story. 

The workshop, which is based on his son Ryan’s life, told the tale of a 13-year-old middle school student from Vermont who committed suicide in 2003 because of bullying.

Throughout the workshops, Mr. Halligan recounted the story of his son’s life, the ridicule he endured both in school and online, the devastating impact his son’s suicide has had on his life, and the power of forgiveness. After telling his son’s tragic story, Mr. Halligan urged students to have the courage to be upstanders rather than bystanders.

A special program was presented to parents at Ward Melville High School following the in school programs for students.

Photo provided by the Three Village Central School District