Teenagers praise mother Jackie for her bravery
By Maurice Garvey
A NUMBER of teenagers were close to tears after hearing a talk delivered by Jackie Fox - the mother of young Nicole ‘Coco’ Fox Fenlon (21), who was ‘bullied to suicide’.
Since that tragic day last January, Clondalkin resident Jackie has campaigned tirelessly to bring in ‘Cocos Law’ and protect vulnerable people by making online bullying a crime.
Jackie Fox with a photo of Nicole ‘Coco’ Fox Fenlon
Ms Fox, who is originally from Old Bawn in Tallaght, was at Clondalkin Youthreach, at the request of the centre, to speak to youths about bullying, and made an impact, according to Lisa Warren, Clondalkin Youthreach Centre Resource Manager.
“She was really good, spoke for an hour and went into the whole situation,” said Ms Warren.
“It is a story that needs to be heard in schools. Kids don’t read the paper, or take notice of much news. Jackie asked us beforehand how graphic she could go.
“We felt it needed to make an impact. Quite a lot of the students at the talk were very upset, some were close to tears.
“As part of our wellbeing service, we received private messages from kids the next day, praising Jackie for her bravery. Overall the reaction was positive.”
Jackie has blazed a trail over the last year, garnering political support for Coco’s Law which has been raised by members at the Dáil.
Speaking to The Echo earlier this year, Jackie said Nicole suffered three relentless years of bullying at the hands of a group of girls, who spread lies about her and intimidated her physically and mentally when she was out socialising.
Nobody is likely to be charged, as no law is in place to protect people from cyber bullying.
Jackie has vowed to keep on campaigning in an effort to protect thousands of other people who are subject to vile abuse.
Meanwhile, Lisa Warren says as a result of the talk, another local youth centre has got in touch, hoping Jackie will deliver a similar talk to more kids.
“Bullying is a huge issue for all, not just kids,” said Lisa.
“We always try to make kids understand that when they put something on the internet, it is there forever. Think before you type.”
Clondalkin Youthreach presented an award to Jackie for her outstanding service for the local community.
WATCH:
