Every so often, we encounter everyday people whose extraordinary acts restore our faith in humanity. This heartfelt story, originally shared on Facebook years ago, continues to touch hearts whenever it resurfaces—so why not share it again to spread the joy?
It’s about a father recounting the day a young girl stepped into his office to ask for permission to take his autistic son to prom.
This story centers on Mike Larson and his son, Jon, who has autism. Mike shared what happened when Jon prepared for his high school prom in a Facebook post that has since gone viral, resonating with millions.
A Special Invitation
“This is my son Jon with his prom date Maddi,” Mike wrote in the caption of a photo he posted. “He is a junior and he has autism. About a month ago, Maddi, a senior, came to my office (I’m a teacher at their school) and asked if Jon’s mom and I would allow her to take him to prom.”
Mike explained how Maddi had gotten to know Jon through a school club designed to foster friendships between special needs students and their peers. Maddi told him, “He’s a junior, so it’s his prom too. I just think he should have the chance to go.” Touched by her kindness, Mike told her it would be an honor for Jon to attend with her.
But Maddi didn’t just invite Jon to prom—she wanted to make it an unforgettable night for him. She discovered his favorite color was orange and wore a dress in that shade. She also reserved a table for their group at a restaurant serving Jon’s favorite foods: chicken fingers, French fries, and chocolate milk.
A Moment to Remember
Before formally asking Jon to the dance, Maddi approached his father to ensure her gesture would be welcomed.
“It was a breathtaking moment for me,” Mike told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.
When Mike shared the prom photo on social media, he did so for three reasons:
- To advocate for special needs kids like Jon.
- To support groups that promote inclusive friendships.
- To remind people, amidst troubling news, that there are wonderful kids like Maddi working to improve others’ lives.
The Impact of a Viral Post
Originally posted in 2013, Mike’s story gained widespread attention. By 2019, the post had surpassed 1 million shares, and Mike offered updates about Jon and Maddi.
“Jon is doing well and is happy, still living at home,” Mike wrote. He also shared that Maddi had since married and sometimes felt embarrassed by the attention. “She didn’t see this as anything special,” Mike explained. “Thanks to all who have wished them well.”
Reflecting on Jon’s autism diagnosis 16 years earlier, Mike admitted he’d once believed his son would never attend a prom. Yet, Maddi’s thoughtfulness allowed Jon to experience this milestone in the most beautiful way.
“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,” Mike said. “To see it bless the lives of others is beyond anything I ever could have hoped for. It will be one of the nicest memories of our lives.”
A Story That Inspires Hope
Stories like this remind us of the goodness that still exists in the world. Maddi’s sweet and considerate gesture of asking Jon’s parents first exemplifies kindness and thoughtfulness.
If this story moved you, consider honoring Mike’s request to share it with your loved ones—it might spread a little more hope to someone who needs it.