• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

Cerebral Palsy Guidance

Answers and Assistance

877-862-8594phone iconCall
  • Cerebral Palsy
    • Types
    • Symptoms
    • Diagnosis
    • Prognosis
    • Causes
    • Associated Disorders
    • Gross Motor Classification System
    • Treatment
    • Life Expectancy
    • Myths
    • Risk Factors
    • Support Groups
    • Research
    • United Cerebral Palsy Association
    • Birth Injury Overview
  • Living With Cerebral Palsy
    • Daily Communication
    • Physical Fitness
    • Toilet Training Tips
    • Eating and Feeding Tips
    • Wheelchairs and Scooters
    • Walkers, Canes, and Standers
    • Falling Issues
    • Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
    • Conductive Education
    • Tips For Better Sleeping
    • Traveling Tips
    • Sports
    • Bullying
    • Inclusive Playgrounds
    • Respite Care
    • Transitioning to Adulthood
    • Vocational Counseling
    • College Guide
    • Finding a Job
    • Having Children
    • Costs
  • Financial Assistance
    • Government Assistance
    • Special Education Assistance
    • Cerebral Palsy Lawyer
    • Cerebral Palsy Lawsuit
  • Our Blog
  • About Us
  • Contact Us
Home > Our Blog > Bullies and Cerebral Palsy: Boy with CP bullied at school sets reminder that help is available

Bullies and Cerebral Palsy: Boy with CP bullied at school sets reminder that help is available

Written by <a href="https://www.cerebralpalsyguidance.com/about-us/mary-ellen-ellis/">Mary Ellen Ellis</a>
November 27, 2018 by Mary Ellen Ellis

A group of high school students and adults gathered in protest after they claimed the school did nothing to a set of alleged bullies accused of harassing and assaulting a boy with cerebral palsy.

The Washington Post reports that the incident occurred in Novia Scotia, Canada, in early November, when a group of kids, caught on video, made a young boy with cerebral palsy lie down in a puddle of mud as they took turns walking over him.

The victim, 14-year-old Brett Corbett, reportedly told his mother that he had to go to school soaking wet because his peers dared him to swim a creek behind their Glace Bay school.

Corbett took the dare and walked into the water, then went down on his belly in an attempt to swim. A group of onlooking children surrounded him, while a girl jumped on his back and hopped to the other side of the creek.

In a separate video that has since been removed from Facebook, the boy stood up afterward but the laughing teens demanded that he get back in the water.

“Do it, you f—— b—-!” one of the male classmates yelled.

At the students’ insistence, Corbett got back into the water, belly-down. Three teen boys then allegedly walked across his back. Corbett’s mother said he has had trouble sleeping since the incident happened.

“It’s just breaking my heart. … This is his mind-set,” Corbett’s mom, Terri McEachern, said. “Children with disabilities have the most amazing gifts in the world. They don’t see bad in anyone. They see so much good in everybody.”

Nacen con maldad, con sadismo en el corazón y no lograron ser educados para convivir en sociedad, fracaso de los adultos…Brett Corbett, 14 años, víctima de bullying y con parálisis cerebral: el niño que les dio una lección a sus compañerosEl video con el abuso sobre el menor se viralizó en pocas horas. El diálogo entre una de las victimarias y el pequeño gran Brett.Brett Corbett tiene 14 años y padece de parálisis cerebral. Concurre al colegio Glace Bay High School y hace un esfuerzo increíble por progresar. Es un ejemplo de voluntad. Eso a pesar de que es víctima de un brutal bullying por parte de sus compañeros.Corbett vive con su familia en Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canadá. Se hizo famoso en los últimos días a partir de que un video en el cual es protagonista se viralizara. Brett se hizo famoso. Pero no sólo por sufrir el acoso constante del resto de los estudiantes, sino por la lección que les dio. Les demostró cómo ser verdaderamente humano.La grabación lo mostraba a Corbett en el medio de la escena. Podía vérselo ser el objeto de las burlas del resto de sus compañeros. en un arroyo mugriento, lo hacen recostar para que ellos pudieran pisarlo y cruzar del otro lado del charco. Era un "juego", a expensas de la humillación de otro. Todos ríen, salvo él, que cuando quiso rehusarse recibió insultos y órdenes de que hiciera lo que ellos querían.En total fueron tres los alumnos que caminaron sobre la espalda de Brett. Pero muchos más los que participaron del dantesco espectáculo. Terri McEachern, la madre de la víctima del brutal bullying, no puede dormir desde que ocurrió el miércoles 7 de noviembre y el video comenzó a recorrer no sólo el estado de Nova Scotia, sino todo el país… y más allá.El video despertó una furia contenida en la comunidad. Se lanzaron campañas a favor de Brett Corbett para mostrarle que "nunca estará solo". Los diarios locales, las cadenas de televisión hicieron público el caso que conmovió a todo Canadá.Un allegado a la familia fue el que advirtió sobre el hecho. McEachern no había visto el video que circulaba por las redes sociales hasta que alguien le advirtió que estaba dando vueltas por Instagram y Snapchat.Pero McEachern contó otra verdad detrás de la humillación. Contó la intimidad de un adolescente que tiene un corazón demasiado grande para el resto de sus compañeros. Los perdonó. No quiso contarle a su madre la verdad de lo que ocurrió esa tarde para que el resto de los alumnos no tuvieran problemas. ¡No tuvieran problemas!Cuando le preguntó quiénes habían caminado sobre él, Brett quiso restarle importancia al hecho. "Está bien… de todos modos yo ya estaba mojado", queriendo desligar a los estudiantes de las sanciones que debían recibir."Me rompió el corazón. Esa es su forma de pensar. Lo niños con discapacidades tienen el más maravilloso don del mundo. No ven maldad en nadie. Ven todo lo bueno en el resto de las personas", dijo McEachern en diálogo con The Washington Post.Un amigo de la familia publicó el video en su cuenta de Facebook para crear consciencia sobre el extremo al que puede llegar una situación de bullying. "Nunca en mi vida estuve más disgustado. Todo el mundo que sabe que este niño tiene una discapacidad. ¿Cuándo difícil puede ser mostrar algo de compasión?", escribió Brandon Jolie en su perfil. Las respuestas al posteo fueron todas en el mismo tono: desagrado por el nivel de desprecio por la vida mostrado por los alumnos del Glace Bay High School de Halifax. La institución… ¿estuvo a la altura? Algunos de los participantes del acoso sólo fueron suspendidos por un día. Esto despertó no sólo la indignación de la familia de Brett, sino de otros estudiantes que se quejaron por la falta de rigurosidad del instituto. Alrededor de 20 de ellos organizaron una protesta el viernes último para expresar su repudio por la respuesta del secundario."Es enfermizo. Es un poco molesto ver que no se hace nada al respecto", dijo un alumno de 17 años al diario Cape Breton Post. El resto de sus compañeros estuvo de acuerdo con la liviandad con que las autoridades tomaron el caso.Desde que el video se viralizó y el hecho cobró estado público, algunos de los alumnos que participaron del accionar pidieron disculpas públicas. Uno de los padres también leyó una carta en la que se disculpaba en nombre del comportamiento de su hijo.Otras dos niñas fueron a la vivienda de Brett para pedir disculpas personalmente. Fue le momento más emotivo desde entonces. Leyeron una carta de perdón. "No debería haberte dicho que fueras [al agua]. Debería haberte ayudado a levantarte en lugar de derribarte. Eres mucho más fuerte que yo por ser tan indulgente tan rápido y realmente lamento lo que he hecho. Esto no es quien soy como persona. Realmente me importa. Tomé una decisión realmente mala y viviré con eso por el resto de mi vida. Quiero con todo mi corazón hacer esto mejor y puedo prometer que nunca dejaré que esto le vuelva a pasar a nadie".Las niñas comenzaron a llorar. A su lado estaban sus padres. Lloraron. McEachern, tampoco pudo contener las lágrimas. Corbett, lloró también con ellos. Por último, el diálogo final entre una de las niñas y Brett.– No debería haberte hecho esto.– No, estoy contento que me haya pasado a mí. Quizás esta historia pueda hacer una diferencia.

Posted by Eliezer Escobar on Tuesday, November 13, 2018

 

She wasn’t the only one hoping for justice.

Numerous students attended a rally organized by local boxer, Ryan “Thunder” Rozicki, who named the event, “Stand up for Corbett.” The organizer indicated that he wanted Corbett to know he was “not alone” and that bullying is not OK.

“Brett Corbett is a grade 9 student at Glace Bay High School who lives with cerebral palsy. On November 6th, 30 students tormented Brett to the point of laying in a shallow creek to use him as a human bridge, throwing rocks, and laughing and recording,” the organizer wrote on Facebook.

According to Rare, more than 50 students ended up apologizing to Corbett after students and adults alike rallied outside the high school on November 13.

“I shouldn’t have told you to go [into the water]. I should have helped you up instead of breaking you down,” one female student wrote to Corbett. “You are way stronger than me for being so forgiving so fast,” she continued, “and I’m really sorry for what I have done. I know better. This is not who I am as a person. I truly care.”

 I made a really bad choice and I will live with that for the rest of my life. I want with all my heart to make this better, and I can promise I will never let this happen to anyone again.”

Corbett’s mother said that the boy has a huge heart and has forgiven the students who reportedly bullied him. He even invited the girl who wrote the heartfelt letter to him to his home to play video games.

Corbett also said he hopes his story and experience can help bring awareness and make a difference, according to McEachern.

Is School Administration to Blame?

In addition to blaming the students involved in the incident for their inappropriate behavior, numerous people also blamed the school administration and said it could have and should have had much more intervention.

The school administration allegedly said they were looking into the incident, which they called “unacceptable and very disappointing.” Yet, school officials haven’t confirmed whether the students in question have been disciplined.

Additional Help with Bullying

As Cerebral Palsy Guidance previously reported, although no federal law exists on bullying, there is a federal law for “discriminatory harassment,” which protects people with special needs in school from being harassed, bullied, and/or excluded.

Once bullying has been confirmed, public schools’ administration have the obligation to investigate what happened, talk to the victims and the alleged bullies, take steps to sure the incident doesn’t happen again, and routinely check in with the victim and bullies to ensure the problem has been solved.

If school administrators fail to do their required jobs, parents have the option to file a formal grievance with the school district, as well as the U.S. Department of Education (Civil Rights Division) and the U.S. Department of Justice (Civil Rights Division).

Read More: Cerebral Palsy and Bullying

Lifelong Financial Assistance for Your Child's Birth InjuryCerebral Palsy

Get Help Now

References

  1. https://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2018/11/13/laughing-teens-make-boy-with-cerebral-palsy-lie-muddy-creek-using-him-human-bridge-he-forgives-them/?noredirect=on&utm_term=.216bf4af3831
  2. https://rare.us/rare-news/caught-on-video/student-used-as-bridge/
View All References
Written by <a href="https://www.cerebralpalsyguidance.com/about-us/mary-ellen-ellis/">Mary Ellen Ellis</a>

Written by Mary Ellen Ellis

Mary Ellen Ellis has been writing for CerebralPalsyGuidance.com since 2016. She is a graduate of the University of Michigan and holds undergraduate and graduate science degrees. As a freelance writer for over 10 years Mary Ellen has used her academic background to specialize in health and science writing. She is committed to making complex medical topics accessible to those who need it.

Mary Ellen feels honored to use her writing skills to shine a light on individuals and families affected by cerebral palsy, and bring awareness to the community.

Secondary Sidebar

Lifelong Financial Assistance for Your Child's Birth InjuryCerebral Palsy

Get Help Now
Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral Palsy in Newborns
Cerebral Palsy in Toddlers
Severe Cerebral Palsy
Types of Cerebral Palsy
Ataxic
Atonic (Hypotonic)
Dyskinetic Athetoid
Dystonic
Hypertonic
Mixed
Non-Spastic
Spastic
Spastic Diplegia
Spastic Hemiplegia
Spastic Quadriplegia
Cerebral Palsy Symptoms
How Cerebral Palsy Affects the Brain and Body Parts
Cerebral Palsy Causes
Birth Asphyxia
Prolonged Labor
Delayed C-Section
Forceps Delivery Injuries
Vacuum Extractor Injuries
Nuchal Cord Birth Injuries
Uterine Rupture and Birth Injury
Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE)
Intraventricular Hemorrhage (IVH)
Failure to Diagnose
Chorioamnionitis
Improper NICU Care
Traumatic Brain Injury
Meconium Aspiration Syndrome
Hydrocephalus
Pitocin Errors
Anesthesia Errors
Infertility Drugs
Cerebral Dysgenesis and Cerebral Palsy
Jaundice
Periventricular Leukomalacia (PVL)
Placental Problems
Epidural Hematoma
Perinatal Stroke
Acquired Brain Injuries and Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral Palsy Associated Disorders
Mobility Issues
Pain
Cognitive Issues
Developmental Delays
Cerebral Palsy and Post-Impairment Syndrome
Seizures
Epilepsy
Malnutrition
Respiratory Health
Hearing Problems
Vision Impairment
Arthritis
Depression
Sleep Issues
Dysphagia
Oral Health Issues
Skin Conditions
Digestive Issues and Health
Emotional Issues
Behavioral Disorders
Autism
Down Syndrome
ADHD
Diabetes
Cerebral Palsy Diagnosis
Imaging Tests
Cerebral Palsy Prognosis
Cerebral Palsy Gross Motor Classification System
Cerebral Palsy Treatment
Cerebral Palsy Specialists
Nutrition Therapy
Chiropractic Care
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Medications
Seizure Medications
Anticonvulsants
Muscle Relaxants
Stem Cell Therapy
Surgery
Aquatic Therapy
Acupuncture Therapy
Botox Treatment
Hippotherapy
Occupational Therapy
Speech Therapy
Massage Therapy
Physical Therapy
Homeopathy
Yoga
Pilates
Intensive Suit Therapy
Medical Marijuana
Functional Electrical Stimulation
Osteopathic Manipulation
Anat Baniel Method and NeuroMovement
Pet Therapy
Cerebral Palsy Cure
Cerebral Palsy Life Expectancy
Cerebral Palsy Risk Factors
High-Risk Pregnancy
Risk Factor Causal Pathways
Premature Birth
Birth Complications
Post-term Pregnancy
Intrauterine Growth Restriction
Maternal and Fetal Infections
Blood Type Incompatibility
Multiple Births
Parental Habits and Health
Cerebral Palsy Support Groups and Organizations
Cerebral Palsy Research
Cerebral Palsy History
Facts and Statistics
Prevalence and Incidence
Cerebral Palsy Myths
Cerebral Palsy Prevention
Cerebral Palsy Misdiagnosis
United Cerebral Palsy Association
Living With Cerebral Palsy
Costs
Orthopedic Health
Neurological Health
Daily Communication
Physical Fitness
Abuse
Toilet Training Tips
Eating and Feeding Tips
Wheelchairs and Scooters
Wheelchair-accessible Vans
Walkers, Canes, and Standers
Adaptive Bikes
Affordable Transportation
Assistive Technology
Falling Issues
Home Modifications
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
Conductive Education
Tips For Better Sleeping
Traveling Tips
Sports
Bullying
Inclusive Playgrounds
Respite Care
Faith
Engaging in the Arts
Transitioning to Adulthood
LGBT
Vocational Counseling
College Guide
Teacher Tips for Inclusive Classrooms
Finding a Job
Having Children
Veterans
Fostering or Adopting a Child with CP
Enjoying the Great Outdoors
Emergency Preparedness
Financial Assistance
Government Assistance
Title V MCH Benefits
Special Education Assistance
Cerebral Palsy Lawyer
Alabama
Huntsville
Alaska
Anchorage
Arizona
Phoenix
Arkansas
Little Rock
California
Los Angeles
Colorado
Denver
Connecticut
Bridgeport
Delaware
Wilmington
Florida
Jacksonville
Georgia
Atlanta
Hawaii
Honolulu
Idaho
Boise
Illinois
Chicago
Indiana
Indianapolis
Iowa
Des Moines
Kansas
Wichita
Kentucky
Louisville
Louisiana
New Orleans
Maine
Portland, Maine
Maryland
Baltimore
Massachusetts
Boston
Michigan
Detroit
Minnesota
Minneapolis
Mississippi
Jackson
Missouri
Kansas City
Montana
Billings
Nebraska
Omaha
Nevada
Las Vegas
New Hampshire
Manchester
New Jersey
Newark
New Mexico
Albuquerque
New York
New York City
North Carolina
Charlotte
North Dakota
Fargo
Ohio
Columbus
Oklahoma
Oklahoma City
Oregon
Portland
Pennsylvania
Philadelphia
Rhode Island
Providence
South Carolina
Columbia
South Dakota
Sioux Falls
Tennessee
Nashville
Texas
Houston
Utah
Salt Lake City
Vermont
Burlington
Virginia
Virginia Beach
Washington
Seattle
West Virginia
Charleston
Wisconsin
Milwaukee
Wyoming
Cheyenne
Medical Malpractice
Claim for Compensation
Lawsuit
Settlement
Statute of Limitations
Life Care Plan
Goals
Evaluation
Diagnosis
Care Team
Record Keeping and Documents
Birth Injury
Treatment
Causes
Failure to Monitor
Symptoms
Prognosis
Lawyer
Settlement
Lawsuit
Claim for Compensation
Infant Skull Fracture
Treatment
Symptoms
Causes
Prognosis
Lawyer
Settlement
Lawsuit
Claim for Compensation
Infant Brain Damage
Prognosis
Symptoms
Causes
Treatment
Lawyer
Lawsuit
Claim for Compensation
Settlement
Infant Wrongful Death
Causes
Claim for Compensation
Lawyer
Settlement
Lawsuit
Grieving the Loss of a Baby
Erb’s Palsy
Symptoms
Prognosis
Treatment
Causes
Lawyer
Settlement
Lawsuit
Claim for Compensation
Brachial Plexus Injury
Causes
Prognosis
Symptoms
Treatment
Lawyer
Lawsuit
Settlement
Claim for Compensation
Klumpke’s Palsy
Lawyer
Lawsuit

© 2023 CerebralPalsyGuidance.com · Privacy Policy · Disclaimer

The information provided by CerebralPalsyGuidance.com is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Living With Cerebral Palsy
  • Financial Assistance
  • Our Blog
  • About Us
  • Contact Us
210 W. Division St. Syracuse, NY 13204

We provide nationwide assistance

Facebook Twitter
Learn About Our Editorial Guidelines