As adults, we know that the world can be a cruel and tragic place. If we're not reading about its troubles, we're experiencing it all firsthand.
But to children, the difficulties of life should be totally unknown. Time should be spent playing pretend, learning the basics of life, and dreaming about the future — not experiencing strife and woe.
But to Mackenze Moretter of Shakopee, MN, adversity was nothing new. Born with a rare genetic disorder, this soon-to-be 10-year old was all too familiar with disappointment: After sending out her birthday invitations, she was saddened — but not surprised — when confirmations were later cancelled, or no responses were heard at all.
Her mother, however, refused to let her daughter's special day go by without celebration. She reached out on social media hoping to gain the attention of local moms, not having any clue what the response would be.
Now, one town in Minnesota is teaching the world what it means to "Have courage and be kind" — and little Mackenzie stands bravely in the heart of that mission.
Be sure to watch footage from Mackenzie's party at the end, and please SHARE if this touched your heart!
Mackenzie Moretter was excited to celebrate her 10th birthday. However, when it looked like no one would be attending her party, Mackenzie wasn't too surprised.
Diagnosed as an infant with Sotos syndrome — a genetic disorder that causes speech impairment and rapid growth — Mackenzie was accustomed to kids not interacting with her.
But her mother, Jenny, refused to let her daughter's special day go by without a celebration. She took to Facebook, hoping to get maybe 10–15 people to show up with their children.
But soon, it became clear that way more than 15 people would be attending. A Facebook event and a GoFundMe page quickly sprung up for Mackenzie's party, and both money and confirmed attendees started pouring in.
The community leapt to action, coordinating all of the food and fun, and arranging a bigger location so as to accommodate the hundreds of guests.
Before they knew it, Mackenzie's party was a hit. Nearly 300 people had shown up to wish Mackenzie a happy birthday.
Though the family had requested no presents, bag upon box began to pile up. Balloons, flowers, and additional cakes continue to pour in throughout the day as well.
Mackenzie was elated. Even Queen Elsa made a special appearance, delighting the little girl.
Girls her age surrounded Mackenzie with love and well-wishes. Many wanted to take a picture with the birthday girl.
For Mackenize, who was often forced to play alone at school, the party was a dream come true.
A special cake was made just for the occasion, and dozens of cupcakes, cookies, snacks, drinks, and barbecue were donated for the party.
Snoopy, too, made an appearance at the party, much to Mackenzie's delight.
Adults were delighted, too, when Charles Johnson of the Minnesota Vikings showed up.
"From the moment Mackenzie has been born," wrote Jenny in a separate Facebook post, "she’s made a unique mark on the world. She’s been a light to everyone that knows her."
"As a mother, I was heartbroken for my daughter," she continued. "I see a side of Mackenzie the rest of the world may not be privy to... She’s intelligent and thoughtful, courageous and kind."
"The outpouring of support for Mackenzie and our family has been humbling. We are truly, truly thankful for your kindness."
"You changed the life of a little girl that many of you have never met."
To mark the beautiful day, the mayor of Shakopee officially proclaimed April 18th "Mackenzie Moretter Day."
Now, Mackenzie and her family hope to spread around the kindness and compassion they felt that day. "You’ve given this mother purpose to spread a message of acceptance, tolerance and love, beyond just our home," wrote Jenny.
Be sure to watch the heart-warming video below, and please SHARE if this birthday party touched you!
