A group of middle school basketball players walked off the court in the middle of a game when they heard bullying coming from the stands directed at cheerleader, Desiree Andrews, who has Down syndrome.
“One of the kids stepped up and said, ‘Don’t mess with her,’” Brandon Morris, told Kenosha News.
In a video on TMJ4 news in Wisconsin, Andrews called the gesture “sweet, kind, awesome, amazing.”
“It’s not fair when other people get treated wrong because we’re all the same. We’re all created the same,” Terrien told TMJ4.
In a tradition that began last year, the introduction of the starting lineup for Lincoln’s boys basketball team always includes Desiree, coach David Tolefree told Kenosha News. He added that the gym was renamed “D’s House” in her honor, and students wear T-Shirts celebrating her inclusion with the team.
“They have really stepped up, almost like they are big brothers to her,” Tolefree said. “It’s good to see.”
Desiree’s father Cliff Andrews told the paper that his daughter’s interest in cheerleading came from the television show “Glee.”
Desiree’s father Cliff Andrews told the paper that his daughter’s interest in cheerleading came from the television show “Glee.”
“They have a character with Down syndrome who is a cheerleader. And she said, ‘If she can be a cheerleader, I can be a cheerleader.’”
Cheer coach and Lincoln teacher, Laura Stone, told Kenosha News she believes Desiree’s participation on the team, and at school, has helped her students grow.
“She has been very special to us,” Stone said.
So with that being said, think about what you do or say to someone before you do or say it! Everybody has a story, and whether you know it or not , everybody has feelings that need to be protected!
The next time you see someone being bullied or you yourself are bullying someone, ask yourself "Would I like being treated that way?".
Step up to bullies in our society, the victims will be greatly appreciative! And maybe, you will change their lives forever!
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