We will be there to participate and remember with love her dad, Warren Michell, who committed suicide just over a year ago.

I think it will be a time for many people to come together and share the loss and grief they have experienced through losing their loved ones.

Maybe just the look or the hint of sadness in their eyes will be shared amongst others who know just how they feel.

It will be a huge step for Gemm to be out in public supporting such an event. I will be there with her every step of the way as we try to come to terms with what has happened.

Her first day of high school at Catholic College was meant to be full of excitement and new beginnings; instead she was attending her dad’s funeral in Adelaide.

Myself and her amazing stepdad, Shane, have protected, guided and supported her to the best of our ability during this time.

Amanda Leonard, Trish Schofield and the amazing staff at Catholic College have given us all the most wonderful love and support you could imagine.

Her friends Gracie, Brigid, Belle, Emma and Dylan have helped her get through every single day that was a struggle.

They have all been there for her when she was sad and have helped her to laugh and show that beautiful smile of hers.

Suicide is something that is so hard to explain to a 12-year-old who absolutely loves life and treasures the simplest things in life.

As a parent you would never think you would have to embrace your child as they break down after you have had to tell them the news of their dad passing away. Especially the part when they ask how and you have to say, “Honey, he chose to go away”.

Everyone deals with death and suicide in many different ways. We have dealt with it by listening to our hearts and supporting each other.

We remember her dad, our friend and our mate, for all the wonderful things he did during his 40 years of life. We still talk and share many wonderful stories with her so his memory will never go away.

Gemmah has the most adorable half brother, Levi. We keep in contact and love the times we get to share. He reminds us so much of his dad. We love him to bits.

I know if (Warren) could turn back time he would change everything. Even though we were not together we still maintained a wonderful relationship for Gemmah’s sake.

I think this is why she is such a well balanced kid.

Warren tried to get help but unfortunately he just could not see the light at the end of the tunnel.

There is such a wonderful support network out there but unfortunately it is not always there for the people who need it.

Asking for help because you feel depressed and can’t see any way out is such a huge step for most people to take.

Warren came across as the happiest and most confident person you knew. Deep down he was struggling with issues from his childhood, losing his mum and ending a long-term relationship. Everything else at the time was really not important. He felt trapped and financial pressures got to him.

No matter how bad things seem, there is always something good around the corner waiting to happen.

You can create your own happiness. Something positive will always be created from a negative situation. You just have to trust and believe in yourself. Surround yourself with caring, supportive people who make you feel good.

It is harder for men to share their problems or try to find a solution, as their male pride gets in the way.

Take a step back before you think life isn’t worth living and think about all the wonderful people you have connected with in your life. Try a new path if the current one keeps going around in circles.

Gemmah would love to eventually be there as a support person for other kids who will experience the very sad situation she found herself in. She has found a true friend in her guitar and is able to express herself in her music. It is a wonderful outlet for her.

Gemmah will always love her dad and will never forget the wonderful times they shared. She would give anything to change what’s happened and to have him back in her life.

We hope her story will help change the thought patterns of someone who does not care any more.