In a world where kindness and compassion can often seem in short supply, it’s refreshing to come across a story that reminds us of the goodness in people. One such story is that of Jon, a high school student with autism, and his prom date Maddi, who showed him an unforgettable night of kindness and friendship.
Jon’s father, Mike Larson, shared the heartwarming story on Facebook, where it quickly went viral. According to Mike, Maddi, a senior at the time, came to his office and asked permission to take Jon to prom. What struck Mike was Maddi’s thoughtfulness and consideration in asking his permission first.
As it turned out, Maddi had gotten to know Jon through a school club that promoted friendships between special needs kids and their peers. She wanted to make sure Jon had the chance to experience prom, just like everyone else. Mike was touched by Maddi’s kindness and gave his consent.
But what happened next was truly remarkable. Maddi went out of her way to make Jon’s prom night special. She learned his favorite color, orange, and wore a dress in that color. She also booked a table at his favorite restaurant, where they served his favorite food – chicken fingers, French fries, and chocolate milk.
The prom photo post, which was originally shared in 2013, has since been shared over a million times. Mike has continued to update followers on Jon and Maddi’s lives, and it’s heartwarming to see how their friendship has endured.
Jon’s story is a powerful reminder that kindness and compassion can make a real difference in people’s lives. It’s a testament to the human spirit and a reminder that there are still good people in the world who care about others.
As Mike so eloquently put it, “It’s something I never thought would happen for our family, and not only did it happen, but it’s happened in such a beautiful way.” Jon’s prom story is a beautiful reminder of the goodness in people, and it’s a story that will continue to inspire and uplift us for years to come.
