I believe that my words were "deal with the issue" and "stand up for yourself". "Tough it out" is neither of those.
Step one - Recognize that there is a problem. Bullies gravitate towards problems like moths to a flame so avoiding this step leads to certain doom.
Step two - Figure out whether the problem is something that can be fixed or not. If it can be fixed then fix it. If it can't be fixed then it's a fact of life and the affected parties need to learn how to cope with the problem. As far as your particular issues I really can't give any specific advice because because I don't know the whole situation.
Step three - Teach the kid how to cope. I have seen people with incredible odds against them do incredible things (
Woman born with no arms becomes first pilot to fly plane using only feet)
Step four - Have faith in your child that they can overcome their disability and don't have to be a victim to it. Faith is an incredibly powerful force but you have to really, honestly and completely believe in it. Faith is the key to making the impossible possible.