Cruel bullies mock teenage cheerleader with Down syndrome – so basketball players stop the game to step in for her

Bullying has no place in society—at school, work, or home—and must be stopped as early as possible. Bullies often act out of their own insecurities, so guiding them early can prevent long-term harm.

Standing up to bullies takes real courage, and those who do deserve respect. Unfortunately, many turn a blind eye instead. But a few years ago at Lincoln Middle School in Wisconsin, three teens—Scooter Terrien, Chase Vasquez, and Miles Rodriguez—chose to act.

When they saw their friend Desiree Andrews, a cheerleader with Down syndrome, being heckled during a game, they didn’t hesitate. The boys confirmed what was happening, then left the bench during a timeout to confront the bullies in front of the whole school.

It was a simple but powerful act that deeply moved Desiree and her father. Fighting back tears, he later said: “I just wanted to let them know, as a father, how much I appreciated it.”