Mean bullies tease teenage cheerleader with Down syndrome—basketball players halt the game to support her
Bullying is a significant issue that has no place in our world. Whether it occurs at work, school, or home, it’s crucial for everyone to actively work against it. This is especially true since the impact of bullying can be long-lasting, and addressing it early is key to prevention.
Children who engage in bullying often do so because of their own insecurities and fears. By correcting their behavior early, we can guide them towards a better path and prevent bullying from becoming a persistent problem in their adult lives.
Standing up to bullies is a brave act that deserves admiration. It requires courage to confront someone who is determined to make others miserable. Unfortunately, many people choose to ignore bullying instead of intervening.
A heartwarming example of bravery and kindness occurred at Lincoln Middle School in Wisconsin, where three teenagers made a significant difference. Scooter Terrien, Chase Vasquez, and Miles Rodriguez, though just average high school students, demonstrated extraordinary character in a challenging situation.
The story involves Desiree Andrews, a cheerleader with Down syndrome, known for expressing herself through dance and music. She faced cruel mockery from a group of students, which didn’t go unnoticed by her friends Scooter, Chase, and Miles.
Witnessing the bullying, these three friends formulated a quick and effective response. Scooter shared how they observed the situation before stepping in. Once they confirmed what was happening, they left their bench during a timeout to confront the bullies, showing their solidarity with Desiree in front of the entire school.
Their intervention was a small but powerful gesture that left a lasting impact on Desiree and her father, who expressed deep gratitude for their actions. Desiree’s dad, holding back tears, shared his appreciation for the boys’ courageous stand.
This incident is a testament to the difference that kindness and bravery can make in combating bullying, proving that even small actions can have a big impact.
