On Dec. 2, Extreme Makeover: Home Edition will air our anti-bullying episode that shares the tragic story of 11-year-old Carl Joseph Walker-Hoover and his family. Carl took his own life this year because of the constant bullying at school, stemming from something so simple as sexual orientation. The taunting became too much to live with, and on April 6, 2009 he ended his life at home. The Walker home became a living memory of this horrific event, as the third floor is where their sweet boy took his own life. The EM:HE team of designers were able to take part and rebuild the Walker home, creating a new safe haven that met their needs and honored Carl in a positive way.
It was a particularly special show to be a part of for me. It's a message I can help tell. As an active member of the LGBT community, it's truly heart-wrenching to hear about Carl. This episode was one of the hardest and most emotional shows I have done in my nine-year run on the series. There is a scene where I hold up his clothes, which are so tiny -- it's so unfortunate to think about how much more this 11-year-old-boy had to give in life.
Our goal at EM:HE is to make a difference, and it's a blessing for me to help shed light on causes I believe in. We surprised the Walker family and took them on a dream vacation to Hollywood, where they were greeted by the Kardashians. The ladies hosted an anti-bullying rally in support of the family with other celebrities, including Demi Lovato. The family was so grateful, and I was so thankful to give my heartfelt support. When the family returned to Massachusetts, they had a wonderful new home with which to honor Carl and create new memories.
Watch Carl's sister Dominique receive a special Kardashian surprise:
Extreme Makeover: Home Edition airs Fridays at 8/7c on ABC.
Again, sincere thanks.
Demi Lovato has struggled and has made her way back from adversity. She seems like a young woman who will continue to grow through her struggles.
However, I think the choice of the Kardashians wasn't well planned. I don't see much wisdom, or self-respect in their life choices. I also don't see much mutual respect for each other. So, in this case, where respect, and understanding need to be emphasized they are the last group of people I would ever choose to sponsor an anti-bullying rally.
Nice job Home Makeover and Demi and The Kardashians. You have done a very good thing, thank you.
He was seen as not conforming to his gender role. As being effeminate. This society has an absolute terror of people who do not conform to their gender role. It's a national phobia that evokes near terror in many people. It is the source of much nervous humor. Until we confront this gender phobia there will be harassment of non gender conformist people such as gay people. Feminine men and masculine women are beautiful and need to stand up to hate and threats and insults about them that we see in the media all day everyday. Until strict gender conformity is no longer seen as the greatest thing you can ever do, and insulting gender non conformist people is no longer acceptable, this hate will continue.
I think halping your daughter work through this will help her to overcome it in less than 7 years it took for me to get over it. Your daughter is very lucky to have you as her mother.
Respect. And Fanned