Breanna Mendoza stopped attending her Turlock middle school six weeks ago because of bullying. Students were teasing the eighth grader on social media – even threatening to hurt her.
She was born with a facial deformity called Goldenhar syndrome and says she has been the target of bullies since she was in elementary school. After the latest incident, she wrote a letter admitting she felt hopeless. But now friends and strangers are sending her love and support from all over the country.
Plus, she got a big surprise from the Children's Craniofacial Association, who offered to pay for Breanna and her parents to attend their Annual Family Retreat in Newport Beach, CA.
"We wanted to invite your family as our guests to come and be with us that weekend as our guests, " the association's executive director, Charlene Smith, told ABC News10. "There are going to be seven other families that have kids with Goldenhar there."
"I'm finally going to be able to meet other kids like me," Breanna said.
Breanna has lots to look forward to, including a free photo shoot arranged by local businesses that will provide makeup and clothing. Now, with supportive new friends, she's gained the courage to go public about her bullying.
"Going from being the one being bullied to the one standing up to the bullies is a big step and I'm super happy that I did it," Breanna said. "And hopefully it will help other kids be able to step up, too, and realize that they're not alone and that they have people there for them no matter what."
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