THE family of a 12-year-old girl who died on Mother's Day has spoken out about the young girl's "creative and beautiful soul".
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Lauren Rafferty tragically passed away after being reported missing from the Kooringal area on May 9, sparking a lengthy search mission.
Her mother, Rachelle Rafferty, released a statement to the media on Tuesday describing the grief she and her family continue to feel.
"The loss of Lauren has shattered and devastated our family," she said.
"Lauren's sweet, strong, kind, quick-witted, creative and beautiful soul struggled to shine in this world that is ever increasingly cruel and relentless."
Mrs Rafferty addressed her disappointment in regional access to mental health support, calling her daughter's death the "cumulative effect of systematic failure".
"Numerous attempts over the last two years were made to help Lauren," she said.
"We had difficulty navigating and accessing mental health support for children, especially in regional areas."
As community conjecture grew around the role bullying had to play in her passing, Lauren's mother said the situation ran much deeper.
"Lauren suffered the same level of bullying that any girl of her age does, which is still unacceptable," she said.
"Lauren had a greater sadness than any of us could fathom, which spiralled and deepened."
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While nothing can take away the pain of losing a loved one, Mrs Rafferty said she hoped to see a change in the community when it came to being kind to one another.
"It is our wish that the world could have more peace, kindness and generosity towards one another, starting with our own community," she said.
"It's our responsibility to improve the human race mentally and environmentally so that we all can shine instead of suffer."
Riverina Police District Commander Superintendent Bob Noble, who was a part of the search for Lauren, urged others suffering through mental illness to reach out.
"It is incredibly important for people of any age, but particularly young people, to realise that they are not the only people going through something like this," he said.
"I don't say that to diminish people's suffering, but rather so that people know they are not alone."
Superintendent Noble said those in need of help should not give up, even if the first person they turn to is not the right person to offer support.
"You can survive, you can make it through this difficult period you are going through, but it is critical to speak up," he said.
"A lot of people unfortunately think nothing can be done to help, but something can always be done, sometimes you just need help with it."
A public memorial service will be held for Lauren on Thursday, May 27, at the Tree Chapel in the Wagga Botanic Gardens starting at 12.30pm.
Family and friends will be seated within the chapel, but the community and those wishing to show their support can stand in the gardens and listen to the live broadcast.
If you or someone you know needs help, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800.
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