A video of a teenager with Down syndrome going into a store alone has racked up 16 million views on Instagram.
The wholesome footage, shared by proud parents Kimberly and Devon DowDell, 47, shows their 14-year-old son completing a task that “might not seem like a big deal” to others, according to the caption.
But to Jack—who has a genetic condition whereby a person has an extra chromosome—buying a drink on his own meant everything, as seen in the video.
Newsweek spoke to his mom, who lives in Utah. She said: “As his parents, it can be hard for us because we want him to be independent, but we worry and find ourselves wanting to hover.”
This is exactly what his dad did when Jack was in the store—spied from outside and filmed him through the window.
Despite their worries, Jack always proves his parents wrong.
DowDell told Newsweek: “Jack teaches us every day about how to smile through life and to feel excitement and joy through even the smallest things like getting a Slurpee!”
The August 5 video shows Jack sitting in the back of the car while his dad hypes him up and goes over what he must do. DowDell told Newsweek that they practiced several times before leaving him to his own devices.
“We also practiced having him pay with us by his side and he did well, so we knew he was ready to go alone, but were still very nervous for him,” she said.
“This video captured the very first time he did this on his own. Now that he’s done it once, he’s excited to do it on his own every time.”
At the end of the clip, Jack can be seen enthusiastically calling his mom to tell her about his milestone. The heartwarming video has resonated widely, racking up 1.1 million likes and a whopping 33,500 comments.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says Down syndrome can affect how a person’s brain and body develop, but that doesn’t mean those with it can’t live a healthy and happy life. As demonstrated by Jack.
“This is a huge deal! It made my heart so happy!” said one user, while another wrote: “We’re all rooting for you Jack.”
“My daughter with Down syndrome just turned one. I can’t wait for the moment of pride she has when she picks up a Slurpee for herself (and maybe grabs me a coffee too),” shared a third user.
“If you need me I’ll be in my car crying. Proud stranger,” said a fourth user.
The post Teen With Down Syndrome Visits Store Alone, Tears Over What Dad Sees appeared first on Newsweek.
