Teens may still be playing the ‘choking game’

In December, most thoughts turn to Christmas and celebrating with family and friends. However, for several hundred people, December is a time to once again mourn the loss of Elijah Cole, who passed away December 11th, 2008, after playing the ‘Choking Game’ (Also known as Space Monkey, Choke the Monkey .. and sadly many others).

As this sad time approaches, it has come to my attention that children at PECI (and I am sure many other schools) are still playing this deadly game! Please take a moment to educate yourself and your children, your friends, your co-workers, anyone that will listen.

Elijah is gone, lets not lose another incredible teenager to this deadly act!
-Pam McRae, Picton

NOTE: There are many resources on the internet about the subject, including:

A comprehensive package by The Fifth Estate: http://www.cbc.ca/fifth/chokinggame/index.html

WARNING SIGNS INCLUDE:
– mentioning the choking game
– marks on the neck
– wearing high-necked shirts, even in warm weather
– bloodshot eyes
– small red spots on the face, especially the eyelids or white part of the eye
– frequent severe headaches
– disorientation after spending time alone
– unusual need for privacy
– increased and uncharacteristic irritability or hostility
– unexplained presence of dog leashes, choke collars, bungee cords
– ropes, scarves, and belts tied to bedroom furniture or doorknobs, or found knotted on the floor
– wear marks on bedposts and closet rods

Children who are suffering from complications of the choking game may complain of the following:
– episodes of confusion and seizure-like events
– fainting
– episodes of altered awareness
– acute vision changes or visual loss