NORTH WALES – Pennbrook Middle School is hosting a parent presentation given by John Halligan on Thursday, December 1, 2022, from 7-8 PM. All community members are invited to attend this free event.

John Halligan is an international speaker and author who gives school presentations to educate families on cyberbullying and suicide prevention. He relays his own tragic experience as a father whose 13-year-old son took his own life in 2003 after bullying by his peers since the fifth grade, both in school and online. Halligan’s son, Ryan, wrestled with underlying mental health issues and depression, contributing to his vulnerability and ultimate suicide. His story is riveting and compelling and reminds students that there is a face, a person, and a heart on the other side of the screen. 

His presentation will begin with a short video collection of home movie clips and pictures of Ryan. Mr. Halligan will then tell the story of Ryan’s life, and the factors that led to his suicide. Audience members will gain a perspective from inside the family of a child who is a victim of bullying and cyberbullying, as well as life-changing lessons about forgiveness, suicide prevention, the role of bystanders, and a challenge to apologize to someone. 

Student assemblies will be held the same day as the community presentation to allow every student to hear Ryan’s story. Students are welcome to attend the evening presentation, however the content will be geared towards parents and their role. 

The event is sponsored by the Pennbrook Home and School Association. For more information, please contact Jesse Clancy, School Counselor, at [email protected].

To learn more about John Halligan and Ryan’s Story, please visit https://www.ryanpatrickhalligan.org/.