A father speaks out after his daughter’s death at Point Loma High School

SAN DIEGO (KGTV) – The father of a Point Loma teenager is mourning the unexpected loss of his daughter.

Italia Bernay, a Point Loma High School student, tragically ended her life Friday on campus while a school football game was taking place nearby.

Her father, Robert Bernay, decided to speak out, hoping his daughter’s story would help other parents and teenagers.

On Monday, students, parents and school staff honored the 17-year-old during a memorial service on campus.

Bernay says his family never saw any warning signs that his daughter was struggling until they found the diary entry after her death. He described his daughter as a happy, straight-A student and a member of the school’s drama club.

In a letter to parents, the school’s principal notified the school community about Italia’s death, offering parents and teachers materials on how to talk to students about the tragedy and how to cope with it. The letter also states that mental health professionals will be on site throughout the week for support.

Bernay hopes the loss of her daughter will remind parents to visit their children more often to make sure they are okay.

“Great soul, great spirit. Today they told me that her energy lights up the whole room every time she enters the room, she was my light,” Bernay said proudly of his daughter.

Italia’s family is raising money to cover her funeral costs. If you would like to donate, please scan the QR code in the post below.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, call the crisis hotline on 988.