World Mental Health Day - MHTN

Teen With Down Syndrome Thrilled By Rare Birthday Invitation

Bookmark Article

Share

Share

Bookmark Article

KEY POINTS

Contagious happiness

A teenager’s heartwarming reaction to receiving a rare birthday party invitation has touched hearts worldwide. Macy, a 15-year-old with Down syndrome, had only been invited to a handful of parties since starting school. Her mother, Heather Avis, captured the moment on video when Macy excitedly shared her invitation, showcasing pure joy and contagious happiness. Jessica Reyes and Patricia Wu talk about the heartwarming story with therapist, Ryan Heapy.

A viral moment

The video went viral, highlighting the universal human desire to belong and be included. Macy had recently transitioned to a life skills program where she found acceptance and community. The birthday party, hosted by a classmate with an intellectual disability, invited both disabled and non-disabled individuals, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity.

A welcoming world, a better world

Macy’s mother hopes her daughter’s story will inspire others to create spaces where everyone feels welcome. The party’s host, who had also experienced exclusion, demonstrated a unique understanding of inclusiveness, proving that those often left out are often the most capable of extending invitations.

To learn more about Ryan Heapy, visit his website.

Editorial Team
Editorial Teamhttps://mhtn.org/
At the heart of MHTN - America's pioneering 24/7 Mental Health TV Network - is our editorial team, a dynamic group of professionals united by a shared commitment to transforming the conversation around mental health. Our team is composed of seasoned journalists, mental health experts, researchers, and storytellers, each bringing a wealth of experience and a passion for advocacy.

Read more

Advertisement

Related Articles