Boy With Autism Lights Up When Classmate Shows Up To Birthday Party

A boy with autism whose mom says is the victim of bullying thought nobody would come to his birthday party but lit up with joy when one pal proved showing up matters. CJ Stephenson, from nearby Grand Rapids, Michigan, was diagnosed with level 1 autism, which impacts his social skills, as he struggles to read cues and make eye contact. Mom Kennedy said the condition has made making friends difficult, as though CJ is very outgoing and tries to make friends quickly, he often gets bullied once other children realize he is different. As a result, Kennedy was worried about her son's upcoming roller rink birthday party, as she thought no other children in his class would come and wanted to avoid heartbreak. Though no invites had been sent out, CJ still excitedly told his classmates about his upcoming party. After school, his classmate Jelani approached Kennedy and asked if he could come to the party, and so she wrote her number down but didn't tell CJ, in case Jelani's mom couldn't confirm or take her son to the event. On December 13, as CJ skated around the roller rink, Jelani leaned on a barrier and shouted over to his friend. CJ immediately took off his glasses and joyously headed over towards Jelani, who said, "Hey, CJ, how are you doing, buddy?"

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