Condolance, Memorial, and Healing Thread Regarding Calgary Stabbing Tragedy

[Daradon]

In reading the other thread I've appreciated the efforts of a lot of posters in trying to keep things respectful and tasteful, and most importantly, remember and reflect on the victims of this horrible chapter in our community.

Of course, a lot of it gets bogged down by speculation, fear, disgust, and frankly posts of some people grinding axes or pushing agendas they see in the justice system, in university culture, or other things.

While a few of the extreme examples in the thread are upsetting, it is only natural to speculate on such a big story, and have worry or despair about such an awful crime. So try as we might, I don't think the tone of that thread is going to change a lot.

So I thought it might be wise and useful just to create another thread where people can post condolences, link memorials, and generally remember the victims, and their family and friends as they go through it.

Lastly, I know a few people here are going through it with the family and friends, perhaps some others are even reading now and haven't posted yet. So, I was hoping this might be a safe place for people to talk if they need. Shoot, there may be a lot of us as students, community members, Calgarians, who feel affected and want to share a connection or story, or lend our support to those who are having a tough time.

Let me finish that thought by saying that if you are having a very hard time, don't be afraid to look for real help, there are a lot of places that do that sort of thing. A quick Google search, or phone call to information can help you, and I'll even start it off by saying the staff at the South Calgary Health Center in Sundance have a great set up for that. But, if you don't feel you need that, and you still want to talk, maybe this can be a start.

Please be as respectful as you can to the situation and to other posters. Refrain from talking about the suspect, the case, the justice system, what you think is wrong with society, etc. We want to keep this thread for giving the victims their respect and keeping their memory, and for the people we may be able to help in that process.

Thank you.

http://www.calgaryherald.com/news/ca...813/story.html

[dino7c]

my condolences to friends/family of the victims as well as to the family of the accused

senseless tragedy that I can't even begin to wrap my head around

[SuperMatt18]

My condolences to the friends and family of anybody who was touched by this tragedy. I cannot begin to fathom the pain that all 6 of the families are going through right now.

[Minnie]

Once again, my heartfelt condolences to everyone touched by this horrible event.

[bcsoda]

I came to this thread because I saw someone expressing distress over the fact that there were only 3 posts in this thread (now 4). Upon opening it I felt the same feelings - I was terribly sad that on this forum of hundreds (thousands?) of regular posters, only 4 people had spoken in this thread. And then after a few moments of thought, I started to navigate away from this page without leaving my own words. But then I caught myself.

I wasn't leaving the page because I didn't care or didn't want to express my most sincere condolences to everyone involved, particularly those that were close to the people involved. I left because I didn't know what to say. What words could I possibly say that could ease the unimaginable pain and suffering that the families, friends, and communities are experiencing? What words could possibly express the feelings of empathy, despair, and sadness that rise from the bottom of my heart every time I think of this tragedy? The truth is, there is nothing I could say that could accurately portray any of these thoughts, but I realized in that moment how important it is to try.

My sincerest condolences go to the family and friends of those involved. To the community. To the city. To the first-responders, university students, neighbours, and acquaintances. To everyone who feels the stab of heartache whenever they think of this tragedy. May they all live on in our memories, and may we all find peace again one day.

[bcsoda]

Additionally, some resources for anyone who needs them. I know that sometimes the times when you need help the most, the hardest thing to do can be to look for it.

Distress Centre: 403.266.4357(HELP)
24 hour crisis-line

Eastside Family Centre: 403.299.9696 (free walk in therapy)
Northgate Mall
255 495 36 St. NE
Monday – Thursday – 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Friday – 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturday – 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
http://www.woodshomes.ca/site/PageNa....klKG7mXJ.dpuf

Sheldon M. Chumir Health Centre - Urgent Mental Health: 403.955.6200
1213 4 St SW
Monday - Friday - 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Saturday & Sunday - 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Organizations for affordable individual & group counselling (sliding scale fee, adjusted based on income):

Calgary Counselling Centre: 403.691.5991

Calgary Family Services: 403.250.5244

Catholic Family Services: 403.233.2360

2-1-1 is also a good place to go for resources

and of course, in case of emergency, call 9-1-1

[Daradon]

Yeah, the thread isn't here to pressure anyone, as you mentioned, what can a person say? Why would we feel our words would make any difference or help at all?

I just felt there was a need because of the arguing in the other thread and the calls for 'respect' of the situation. The condolences that were in there were getting buried and some felt that was inappropriate.

This way we can keep the discussion away from the condolences and memorials. As the days pass I'm sure there will be more memorials online, or stories people will want to tell. There is no rush or no pressure here, just use it how you feel is best or helps you the most.

EDIT: To add, a statement from the Rathwell Family including funeral information.

http://newsroom.calgary.ca/news/stat...athwell-family

[calumniate]

Sincere condolences. Such a tragedy. Only good thing I can think of that has come of this is that it's reminded me of how small a city Calgary can still be at times. Has touched the lives of so many people I know. Perhaps this is due to me having roots in the nw, but these were awesome kids from all accounts. Rest in peace

[Peanut]

It's so tragic and there are really no words. Sending strength this week to all the families and friends as they attend the memorial services for the victims.