US: Vermont Teen Dies by Suicide After Bullying Over Mother's Health Issues

Vermont: A 14-year-old girl from Vermont, Isabelle Vezina-Dykeman, died by suicide after allegedly facing relentless bullying at school over her mother’s health issues. Isabelle, freshman at Mill School in Winooski, was reportedly harassed by peers who targeted her over her mother’s health condition. Isabelle’s mother, Heather Miller, recently underwent brain surgery, which left her with a shuttered eye.

On September 15, after returning home visibly upset, Isabelle took her own life within 35 minutes. 

Devastating Loss for Family

Heather described her daughter as a vibrant, “spunky” teenager who loved to dance and ice skate. Isabelle had been excited about starting her freshman year at the alternative high school, which caters to students with complex needs. However, her excitement turned to devastation as she became the victim of bullying.

“She was excited about the school year, excited about being a freshman,” her mother, Heather Miller, told WCAX. 

On September 15, Isabelle returned home visibly upset after school. “I thought I was doing the right thing by giving her some space,” Heather recalled, but within just 35 minutes, the unthinkable happened and Isabelle took her own life.

School Faces Scrutiny Amid Bullying Allegations

Heather said her daughter had been the target of cruel text messages from classmates, mocking her for how her mother looked after surgery. The *Mill School* is now investigating the claims of bullying, with the administration expressing grief over the loss. “We, at the Mill School, have been devastated by the loss of one of our students,” the school said in a statement. “We are working with the appropriate agencies and continue to provide counseling support.”

Family Donates Daughter's Organs to Save More Lives

In the wake of the tragedy, Heather revealed that Isabelle’s organ donation helped save the lives of *seven people*, including another child who received her eyes.