Kelaia Turner’s Harrowing Story:The tragic story of Kelaia Turner, a 12-year-old girl from South Carolina, has brought attention to the severe consequences of unchecked bullying within schools. Her near-fatal suicide attempt on March 17, 2023, followed over a year of relentless harassment, allegedly ignored by staff and administrators at her middle school in the Greenville County Schools District.
The Incident
Kelaia’s suicide attempt left her with severe brain damage, requiring constant care from her family. She spent over 100 days hospitalized, including 31 days in the ICU, after paramedics initially found no pulse or heartbeat. Her recovery is ongoing, with significant medical and therapeutic needs.
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Allegations of Negligence
A lawsuit filed by Kelaia’s parents outlines a pattern of systemic failures and negligence by the school district:
- Classroom Bullying: Teachers allegedly enabled or ignored harassment. One teacher, Olivia Bennett, is accused of pointing at Kelaia when students mocked her, calling her derogatory names like “roach.”
- Inappropriate Content: Another teacher allegedly allowed students to play a racially offensive song, “The Black People Song,” without intervention.
- Social Media Exploitation: After Kelaia’s hospitalization, a classmate reportedly took photos of her in the ICU and shared them on social media, spreading rumors about her condition.
The lawsuit contends that repeated reports of bullying were disregarded, creating an environment where Kelaia felt unprotected and isolated.
A Family’s Heartbreak
Kelaia’s mother, Ty Turner, vividly recalls the devastating moment she found her daughter after the attempt. Her family has since taken on the responsibility of providing round-the-clock care for Kelaia, who faces a long road to recovery.
A GoFundMe page set up by the family highlights their ongoing struggle to cover medical expenses and ensure Kelaia receives the care she needs.
Legal Action
The Turners are seeking accountability for what they describe as systemic negligence within the school district. Their lawsuit aims to bring attention to the failures of the school system to adequately address bullying and harassment, preventing similar tragedies in the future.
Raising Awareness
Kelaia’s story underscores the urgent need for schools to take proactive measures against bullying, foster a safe learning environment, and provide support to vulnerable students. As her family continues their fight for justice, Kelaia’s case serves as a reminder of the far-reaching consequences of neglecting the mental health and safety of young students.
Support for the Turner Family
Those wishing to support the Turner family can find more information on their GoFundMe page. Let Kelaia’s story inspire meaningful change in schools and communities across the country.
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, help is available. Contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) or text “HELLO” to 741741 for free, 24/7 confidential support.