Meet Jackson Bezzant, an ordinary elementary school child who loves fishing, the outdoors, and spending quality time with his family. However, what sets Jackson apart from his peers is a condition he was born with called Treacher Collins syndrome, which affects the development of his facial tissues and bones.
Facebook / Dan Bezzant
In Jackson’s case, this condition has required multiple surgeries to reconstruct his eye socket, and it has left him almost completely deaf. Regrettably, it has also made him the target of relentless bullying, not just from other kids but even from some adults.
One day, when Jackson was called a “monster” at school, his father in Idaho couldn’t bear it any longer. He was devastated by the hurtful words his son had to endure. It was the final straw.
Facebook / Dan Bezzant
Dan, Jackson’s father, had witnessed his son being taunted and ridiculed many times before. People on the street would sometimes make thoughtless comments about Jackson’s appearance. Despite his anger and frustration, Dan always focused on keeping his son happy and grounded.
But when three older boys mocked Jackson in the school cafeteria, calling him “ugly” and a “monster,” Dan couldn’t stay silent any longer. Jackson had endured enough.
Fighting back tears, Dan took to Facebook to denounce the bullies who had tormented his son for far too long. His emotional post began with the words, “My heart is breaking, and my soul feels torn apart.” He described the constant stream of hurtful comments and insults Jackson faced, even mentioning that his young son had talked about suicide at just eight years old.
In his plea, Dan urged parents to take a moment to imagine their own child in Jackson’s shoes and to teach their children about empathy and acceptance. He explained that Treacher Collins syndrome was responsible for Jackson’s appearance and the numerous surgeries he had undergone.
Importantly, Dan didn’t blame the school or the teachers for the bullying. Instead, he placed the responsibility squarely on the parents who had failed to instill kindness, compassion, and acceptance in their children. He hoped that by sharing his story, other parents would understand his pain and teach their children that bullying is unacceptable.
Jackson’s rare condition, Treacher Collins syndrome, had made him the target of unkind remarks throughout his life. This genetic disorder impairs the development of facial tissues and bones, resulting in noticeable deformities and challenges that require ongoing surgeries.
Following Dan’s heartfelt Facebook post, students from Jackson’s school reached out to him and his family, offering friendship and support. Jackson even made friends with two nearby children who also had Treacher Collins syndrome, thanks to Dan’s powerful words. They planned to have playdates together.
Overwhelmed by the outpouring of support, Dan set up a PO box for people to send letters and cards to Jackson, and it quickly filled with well-wishes.
Dan’s impassioned plea on Facebook touched hearts and shed light on the issue of bullying. Bullying, even unintentional, can cause significant harm. As Dan demonstrated, a little awareness and understanding can go a long way in preventing suffering.
If you believe in putting an end to bullying, please share Jackson’s story.