Texas boy Shayden Walker, 12, captured the hearts of millions on TikTok when he sought friends in a heartwarming video. Shayden visited his neighbors, the Ray family, asking if they knew any kids his age to befriend.
Although they couldn’t help, the Rays shared the video, which quickly went viral with over 65 million views. The response was overwhelming, as the Rays started a GoFundMe campaign that raised approximately $40,000 for Shayden.
Shayden had experienced bullying, leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness. The bullying was so severe that it resulted in hospitalization, leaving him desperate for companionship. Krishna Patterson, Shayden’s mother, urged people to stand up for those who are bullied and to be supportive. The impact of the bullying on Shayden was heartbreaking, as he had been manipulated by others pretending to be his friends, only to be coerced into doing hurtful things.
Before the TikTok video went viral, Shayden lacked confidence and suppressed his true self. He would flap his arms and make noises, but out of fear of being ridiculed, he would try to hide his unique qualities. However, the overwhelming support and positive response to his video transformed Shayden’s outlook on life. His newfound confidence soared, and he realized the importance of spreading a powerful message against bullying.
In light of his experience, Shayden implores others to consider the impact of their actions. He asks individuals to imagine themselves in the shoes of those being bullied, urging them to empathize and understand the emotional toll it takes. Shayden’s story serves as a reminder of the profound effect kindness and acceptance can have on someone’s life and the significance of standing up against bullying in all its forms.
Through his vulnerability and the subsequent outpouring of support, Shayden has not only gained friends and confidence but has also become an advocate against bullying. His inspiring journey demonstrates the transformative power of compassion, empathy, and the willingness to be there for one another.
Krishna Patterson, the mother of Shayden, shared that her son has received multiple diagnoses, including autism, oppositional defiant disorder, bipolar disorder, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
These mental health conditions have made Shayden feel isolated and alone, she told USA TODAY. Maintaining friendships has been challenging for him, and he sometimes experiences meltdowns that result in unintentional harm to himself and others who try to help.
Shayden has also faced bullying, with incidents like being called names while playing tag with a neighbor. Patterson expressed concern about her son being manipulated and excluded due to his meltdowns, leading to parents not wanting their children to associate with him.
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