“Toddlers & Tiaras” star Kailia Posey sent a sweet and sentimental gift to her mother, Marcy Posey Gatterman, just a few weeks before she died by suicide, according to Page Six.
The 16-year-old beauty pageant contestant found a special blanket on TikTok and had it delivered to her mother’s house, the publication reported. Posey’s mother said the blanket included a heartfelt quote, saying, “Dear Mom, even when I’m not close by, I want you to know I love and appreciate you. Always. Wrap yourself up in this and consider it a big hug. I love you.”
Gatterman urged the public to keep a close eye on their loved ones and for parents to monitor teenagers’ cell phones for signs of depression.
“This is the worst thing a mother can go through. Parents who have teenagers that have phones, check their phones,” the grieving mother said. “And if you’re struggling, talk to your parents. They’re not judging you.”
She continued, addressing anyone going through challenging times: “They’re going to get you the help that you need, but we need to know what you need in order to get the help you need. Don’t keep it inside.”
Gatterman announced her teenage daughter had died by suicide on May 2 with a statement on social media. “I don’t have words or any thoughts. A beautiful baby girl is gone. Please give us privacy as we mourn the loss of Kailia. My baby forever.”
The family also shared a formal statement, The Daily Wire initially reported. “Although she was an accomplished teenager with a bright future ahead of her, unfortunately in one impetuous moment, she made the rash decision to end her earthly life.”
“She won countless crowns & trophies after competing on the pageant circuit her entire life … ,” the family added. “Her highly acclaimed talent as a contortionist had already led to professional touring job offers, and she had recently been selected to be a cheerleader at her high school next fall.”
Posey only spent a short time appearing on the hit TLC reality series “Toddlers & Tiaras” but spent a lot more time in the real world of beauty pageant competitions. She had most recently participated in the Miss Washington Teen USA pageant in February 2022.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a free hotline for individuals in crisis or distress or for those looking to help someone else. It is available 24/7 at 1-800-273-8255.