Basketball Players Stand Up For Bullied Cheerleader With Down Syndrome
In a world full of negative news, it's always refreshing to hear about positive stories that restore our faith in humanity. Recently, a group of high school basketball players from Lincoln-Way East High School in Frankfort, Illinois, did just that when they stood up for a cheerleader with Down Syndrome who was being bullied.
The Initial Incident
The incident began when a group of students started bullying Desiree Andrews, a 14-year-old cheerleader with Down Syndrome, during a game. They were making fun of her as she was cheering, and she was visibly upset.
That's when the basketball players sprang into action.
The Basketball Players' Response
As soon as the basketball players saw what was happening, they took action. They called a timeout and walked over to the group of students who were bullying Desiree. They then formed a circle around her and began chanting her name.
This act of kindness and support touched not only Desiree and her family but also the entire school community. The incident even caught the attention of the media and went viral.
The Impact of the Basketball Players' Kindness
Desiree's father, Cliff Andrews, spoke to CBS News about the impact the basketball players' kindness had on his daughter. He said, "It really has done wonders for her self-esteem. The support that everyone has given her has been wonderful. It's been life-changing for her."
Desiree's mother, also named Desiree Andrews, added, "She's always been outgoing and friendly, but this brought out a side of her that we've never seen before. It's amazing to see her blossom like this."
The basketball players' kindness didn't just impact Desiree; it also had ripple effects throughout the school. The incident brought the school community together and started a conversation about the importance of standing up for others and being kind.
The Importance of Standing Up Against Bullying
The incident at Lincoln-Way East High School highlights the importance of standing up against bullying. According to the National Bullying Prevention Center, one out of every five students reports being bullied. Bullying can have devastating effects on a child's self-esteem, mental health, and physical health. It's essential that we teach our children to stand up for themselves and others and to say no to bullying.
It's heartwarming to see acts of kindness like the one displayed by the basketball players at Lincoln-Way East High School. We can all learn from their example and strive to be kinder and more supportive to each other. Let's continue to spread kindness and positivity, and maybe one day, our world will be a much better place.
