SAT . A 12-Year-Old’s Final Plea: “Please Talk to Someone… They Might Make It Because of You.”
“It’s too late for me… Please talk to someone even if they look and act OK… They might make it because of you.”
Those were the heartbreaking final words written in the journal of Lindsey Mae Swan.
She was just 12 years old.
This week, her family laid her to rest in Huntsville, saying goodbye to a vibrant, gifted middle schooler who seemed to have the world at her feet. Lindsey loved choir, theater, volleyball, gymnastics, sunsets, animals, and making people laugh. She was rehearsing for The Lion King and had recently been invited to join her school’s Girls Engaged in Math and Science team.
To those around her, she was thriving.
Her family called her “Sweet Pea” and “Stitch.” She smiled. She performed. She achieved.
But inside, Lindsey was fighting a battle few could see.
Her family believes Lindsey hoped her passing would serve as a warning — a message to protect another child who may be suffering quietly behind a bright smile. They say this is not about blame. It is about awareness. It is about saving the next child.
“If someone talks about hurting themselves… about not wanting to be here… that is not drama,” her loved ones say. “That is a red flag.”
Tell a parent. A teacher. A coach. A counselor. You may fear losing a friendship — but you will never regret saving a life.
If you or someone you love is struggling, help is available. In the United States, you can call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. You are not alone.
As her mother, Brittany, and their family face the unimaginable grief of burying their 12-year-old daughter, they are asking for one thing: that Lindsey’s message be heard.
Please share.
Please pray for her family.
And please — talk to someone.
