From selfie surprises to flash mobs, there is no shortage of proposal videos. But this next one might be one of the most heartwarming to date. The individuals involved have Down syndrome, but that doesn't make their love any less wonderful.
In the "The Special Proposal," Salvatore proposes to his girlfriend, Caterina, who also has the genetic disorder.
The proposal begins with an a capella group entering the McDonald's where Caterina works, singing Norah Jones' "Come Away With Me." Then, Salvatore emerges from the crowd and gets down on one knee The only catch, this proposal is not to get married– but to live together. As the video states, "For people with Down syndrome, independence means a brighter future."
Salvatore presents her with a house key, and she happily accepts before breaking down in happy tears. Cue the waterworks!
This video was released just before the 10th anniversary of World Down Syndrome Day (March 21, 2015.) The Down Syndrome International hopes that together, we will create "a very loud single global voice for advocating for the rights, inclusion and well being of people with Down syndrome." Thanks to an increased awareness and resources, an increasing number of adults with Down syndrome in the U.S. are living independently — like the couple above.
Enjoy the video below, but be warned, you'll need tissues!
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