A 14-year-old girl from Vermont took her own life after facing relentless bullying at school in the United States.
Isabelle Vezina-Dykeman was a freshman at the Mill School in Winooski, an alternative high school designed for students with complex needs. She was targeted for bullying related to her mother’s ongoing health issues, including brain surgery that resulted in a shuttered eye, according to reports.
“She was excited about the school year and being a freshman,” her mother, Heather Miller, told WCAX. She described Isabelle as “spunky,” outgoing, and someone who “loved to dance” and ice skate.
Miller stated that her daughter Isabelle faced constant teasing at school and even received heartless text messages after classes, mocking her and her mother’s appearance.
Miller had recently undergone brain surgery, which left her right eye shuttered.
When Isabelle returned home from school on September 15 visibly upset, Miller decided to give her some space to unwind.
“I thought I was doing the right thing,” Miller told WCAX, “but within 35 minutes, our whole lives changed.”
Tragically, Isabelle took her own life that very night, according to reports.
The Mill School is currently investigating the bullying claims made by Miller, the school informed WCAX.
“We, at the Mill School, are heartbroken by the loss of one of our students,” the school stated. “We are collaborating with the appropriate agencies and will continue to provide counseling support.”
Miller shared that Isabelle’s organs were donated, helping to save the lives of seven individuals.
Another child received Isabelle’s eyes and can now see.