When James was born, his parents knew that he had Down’s Syndrome, and they were ready to accept the challenge and raise their sweet son as best they could. And then, six years later, they were told by doctors that he also was autistic and, especially, the non-verbal kind, so he was unlikely to talk or spell.
However, this was not exactly the case. When a friend of theirs suggested getting an iPad, his mom, LynnMarie Rink, had no idea how helpful it would prove. Eventually, James learnt how to spell using the iPad and now he can spell practically anything.
“That iPad taught him how to spell,” James mom told News Channel 5. “And he can spell anything. It’s crazy!”
So when James’ first iPad got too worn out, his parents knew that it was time to get a new one. And, indeed LynnMarie and James headed to the nearest Apple Store in order to pick a new device. It all seemed to be going great at first, but as LynnMarie explains, you never know if a day is going to be good or bad.
“It’s always a guessing game. They could be having the best day ever, and then, something will trigger them,” the mother explains.
Indeed, no matter how high James’ spirits were when they went to the shop, something did trigger him and, before his mom could catch him, he just ran face-first through the glass wall.
As you can imagine, everyone at the store freaked out and stared at the broken glass, while his mom rushed towards him, not knowing what she was going to face. She feared the worst. But, luckily, James was just fine. He was sitting there, a little disoriented and hurt for a moment, but he soon was alright again.
His mother was doing her best not to show her concern and she was trying to think of a way to calm him down. Just then, an employee approached them, sat down next to James and asked if he could somehow help them.
Rink asked the man if they could keep shopping from there, so as James not to be further upset. And, indeed, the employee brought an iPad for them. Before handing it to James, Rink covered it with a protective case she had brought along, and then the man sat next to the 9-year-old boy and guided him through the functions of his new gadget.
“Just meet me right where I am. Don’t make me stand up or stand out. We know we’re not normal but we try to be. And he just sat on the floor with us,” said Rink who was grateful to the man for his kindness and thoughfulness.
The employee, Andrew Wall, is a Belmont psychology graduate. After the incident he wrote to Rink:
“I began working at Apple in hopes of having fulfilling moments like this. My hopes are to work within the realm of youth counseling. Thanks again for making my day!”
It is so heartwarming to see people go above and beyond for others, especially strangers. You can watch the full story in the video below.
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