R.I.P. Kyle Scanlon, Toronto Activist

[Carolyn Marie]

This is very, very sad. The Community has lost a leader and a good man. May he find the peace that eluded him in life.

http://www.advocate.com/politics/transgender/2012/07/11/toronto-mourns-suicide-transgender-leader

Carolyn Marie

[Sally]

It is always sad when anyone finds suicide as the only possible solution to their problems, more so when it is one of our activist and leaders.

From the article it appears that he was always there for anyone who was having trouble.

It is too bad that he was unable to reach out to someone in his time of need.

Love ya,

Sally

[Michelle 2010]

Suicide rates among transgender and gender non-conforming individuals is extremely high; a 2010 study by the NGLTF reported that while 1.6% of the general public attempts suicide, over 40% of trans people do so.

What a sobering statistic. Even if the number is only half the value reported by the NGLTF, it shows the need for support as exemplified through places like Laura's Playground, the Trevor Project (referenced in the article), and local community resources.

When something like this happens I can't help wonder if the individual, in the depths of their depression, believed that he "should" be healthy and above such feelings and thus couldn't bring himself to reach out. Very sad...

Rest in Peace, Kyle.

Michelle