The Independent's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission.
Mum of son with Down's syndrome shares emotional video after just one person turns up for his 5th birthday
American woman’s video has now been watched seven million times
A mother of a five-year-old with Down’s syndrome has gone viral after sharing a video of herself crying when just one person showed up to her son’s birthday party.
The American woman, whose name is not known, shared the short video ok TikTok on Tuesday and it has since been watched more than seven million times.
In the black and white clip, the woman explains how she had organised a drive-by birthday party so that friends could drive past their home and wish their son, Jude, a happy birthday.
However, just one person attended the party.
"Normally this would be bad for any kids, but my son has Down's syndrome," the mother explained.
"My son has Down's syndrome and when he didn't realise what was going on that hurt. but what happens when he knows?
"What happens when he knows that he's being purposely left out? Why?"
The woman is then seen breaking down into tears and turning the camera off.
The clip has prompted millions of comments from sympathetic viewers.
“This is devastating for this poor mama. Be better parents y’all,” commented one person.
"This is not me or my child. I have a daughter with Ds [Down's syndrome], but felt like more people needed to see her story."
@nosilla865 The worst day. My heart is broken. Please raise your littles to be kind.
♬ original sound - nosilla865
Another person, who also has a child with Down’s syndrome, added: "When will people understand? Our children are just like everyone else. They have one extra love chromosome. People might see it if they gave them a chance."
The NHS states that Down’s syndrome is when you're born with an extra chromosome.
You usually get an extra chromosome by chance, because of a change in the sperm or egg before you're born.
People with Down’s syndrome will have some level of learning disability, the NHS adds. And while some will be fairly independent, others might need regular care.
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies