Sienna Ratila’s friends and family turn tragedy into hope

The family and friends of a young Mooroopna girl who took her own life are pleading for others with mental health struggles to reach out for help.

The family and friends of a young Mooroopna girl who took her own life are pleading for others with mental health struggles to reach out for help.

Sienna Ratila, 13, died on March 11, a week after she tried to take her own life and was put on life support.

More than 100 people farewelled Sienna in a heartfelt memorial last Wednesday night.

Mooroopna oval was filled with hymns, candles and tears in loving memory of the ‘positive’ teen.

Sienna’s sister, Casey Ratila, said that her sister’s death had made her realise people are suffering yet, “wear a smile”.

Mourners at Sienna’s memorial service. Picture: Jason Edwards

“Sienna had big beautiful wings and she needed to fly away,” she said.

She urged those suffering to “try speaking up and reaching out”.

“It’s not weak to speak,” she said.

“Pick up the phone and call someone, whether it be a hotline, friend or family member.”

Sienna’s stepmother, Roxanne, said that “they’ve been dealing with (Sienna’s mental health struggles) for quite some time”.

Roxanne said Sienna had been linked with Goulburn Valley Health for at least two years, having attempted suicide at least 10 times throughout the program.

Roxanne said “the whole mental health system is an absolute joke”.

“When you’re coming to them as a parent, you’re coming to them for help. And we didn’t get that help,” she said.

Roxanne urged other parents to be persistent if their child was experiencing mental health issues.

“If this is happening to your child, do not let the hospitals turn you away. Just keep seeking help, don’t stop,” she said.

Kat McNeil, one of Sienna’s teachers, said that she was fondly remembered for “her intelligence” and her “love of colour”.

“She loved painting, she loved her pets, she was a strong swimmer and a super star at basketball,” Ms McNeil said.

But Ms McNeil said “her struggles were great – far too great for such a young person”.

She said as the community grieved together, she recognised that some were “still grappling with how much potential Sienna had”.

Heartbroken friends of Sienna at the memorial. Picture: Jason Edwards

A friend of Sienna’s said it was hard to believe her friend had even passed.

“You didn’t deserve the pain you went through Sienna, I love you and I always will,” she said.

“My heart goes out to Bill and Roxanne, I can’t imagine pain worse than this, but I know you both do.”

Friends left flowers in her honour. Picture: Jason Edwards

Five young people in the last five months have committed suicide in the Goulburn Valley region.

For those needing help, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.