The family of Amanda Todd, a Port Coquitlam teen who committed suicide after relentless bullying, says they are touched by the outpouring of support as vigils were held in cities around the world Friday night.
Ceremonies took place in dozens of cities, including Coquitlam, Surrey, Victoria and in Ontario students had a moment of silence.
Norm Todd, Amanda’s father, attended the vigil in Surrey where hundreds gathered in Holland Park. Many people wore pink as away to show bullying has no place in their communities.
"It was nice to see so many people show up to honour Amanda and all the effort and work they (organizers) put into it,” Todd told CTV News.
In September, Amanda posted a video on YouTube detailing the years of abuse she suffered at the hands of bullies who wouldn’t leave her alone even when she moved. Weeks after she put up the video she took her own life.
Despite the family’s grief, her father believes Amanda’s story is bringing change. Todd says they’ve already heard stories of kids standing up for other kids who have been bullied.
"That makes me and Carol (Amanda’s mom) feel good that Amanda’s message is being delivered and it brings us joy to see good things coming out of this,” he said.
As the family prepares for a public memorial on November 17 in Port Coquitlam at Citadel Middle School, Todd wants people to know Amanda had a good heart, loved to sing and will be missed by many.
A fund has also been set up in memory of Amanda with the Vancouver Foundation.
With a report from CTV British Columbia’s Michele Brunoro
