Losing a child to suicide is one of the most heartbreaking things a parent can endure. Sadly, it's a reality far too many parents have had to face.
Hellem Villatoro is now one of those parents. Her daughter, Makayla Marie Villatoro, died by suicide just one day before her 12th birthday. The happy little girl seemed to be looking forward to the milestone. Her mom was ready to surprise her with great gifts.
Makayla was described by her family as their light. She was happy and bubbly, never indicating any deeper struggles. But behind the scenes, Makayla was dealing with relentless bullying that no one was aware of. Now her family wants other families to talk to their kids, even when it's difficult or uncomfortable.
Note: If you or any of your loved ones are struggling with suicidal thoughts, you can always reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by calling 1-800-273-8255. They are available 24/7 by phone or online chat.
Makayla Marie Villatoro seemed like a perfectly happy little girl. She was set to turn 12 on March 11. Instead, the family spent the day mourning her loss. Makayla died by suicide on March 10.
Makayla's family was completely shocked by her death.
"She was fine, for her birthday, she got what she wanted … she wanted a PlayStation, she was getting a PlayStation," her mother, Hellem Villatoro, told CBS DFW.
"It's not right … I should be celebrating her birthday, not mourning my daughter. It's the worst pain," Hellem shared with tears streaming.
"It's the worst pain in the world, how can you even go to sleep to know that she’s not there?"
In a GoFundMe page set up for Makayla's funeral expenses, the family lamented just how common bullying has become, as they believe it was a serious factor in Makayla's mental health struggles. The popular sixth grader faced more pressure than anyone around her truly understood.
"Bullying is an event that has become all too familiar in many schools," they wrote.
"It is an experience that no one should have to live through but mental health and suicide affects every family."
Students at Makayla's school are mourning her loss.
"Even when you walk into the school building, you can feel the students are hurting and asking 'why,'" said Principal Letrice Portley. She remembers Makayla as a smart girl who was well liked. Nothing in her behavior led teachers or counselors to be concerned.
The school is providing additional counseling support for students coping with Makayla's death.
"She was talkative … you weren't going to be in the cafeteria and not have a conversation or a 'hello' with Makayla. She was that kind of kid," Principal Portley recalled.
She's urging families to talk with their kids. "Talk to your children. Take some time to sit down and just check on everyone: children, young adults and all."
Makayla's family is also urging parents to talk with their kids, even if they think everything's OK.
"Watch your kids closely. Even if they say 'Mom, it's okay.' No. Push them. Push them. Look in their phones," Hellem said. She's regretful that she didn't ask more and now will never have answers.
"So many I will never get answered. The main question is why? why?"
