Warning. This article deals with suicide.
The parents of an Australian transgender teenager who took his own life have decided to have two headstones made after they couldn't agree on what name to use.
The 15-year-old boy from Perth was described as "a good and caring friend who always listened" and an "amazing artist who was great at drawing, painting and make-up" by family and friends.
He died in hospital on March 4, The West Australian reported.
However, since then his parents have been unable to decide on a memorial for the boy and whether they should put his dead name or his chosen name on the headstone.
The matter was recently taken to a Family Court in Western Australia, but the boy's mum said she was prepared to take her case to the Supreme Court.
"He (the father) wanted all the ashes (interred together) and (his son's birth) name on the plaque," she told the newspaper.
"I would agree to have (the birth name) in brackets but his (chosen name) first."
She had her son 'would hate' to have his birth name used.
7News reported the parents eventually agreed to split the boy's ashes and put both of his names on any memorial plaques. They will also hold two different funerals.
Where to find help and support:
- Shine (domestic violence) - 0508 744 633
- Women's Refuge - 0800 733 843 (0800 REFUGE)
- Need to Talk? - Call or text 1737
- What's Up - 0800 WHATS UP (0800 942 8787)
- Lifeline - 0800 543 354 or (09) 5222 999 within Auckland
- Youthline - 0800 376 633, text 234, email talk@youthline.co.nz or online chat
- Samaritans - 0800 726 666
- Depression Helpline - 0800 111 757
- Suicide Crisis Helpline - 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO)
- Shakti Community Council - 0800 742 584
