Autistic 19-year-old was disheartened when he stopped receiving letters at post office—a request from his mom turned his life around
If a simple effort from our end can go on to make a life-changing difference in another’s life, it is a priceless opportunity to grab. Carson Swazey has autism and cannot read, write or speak but is stoked to receive letters from the mail each day, The Washington Post stated. The 19-year-old would go on a walk to the post office every day, excited to see the letters that awaited him. His little walk was an exercise that helped his growth and development. The letters served as an incentive for him to go out on that walk and when he stopped receiving them, he was demotivated. His mother, Amanda Kinney, shared a request on Facebook and strangers wholesomely came through.
The 19-year-old would embark on a 15-minute walk to the post office daily, in hopes of finding letters. His mom shared how beneficial this simple walk was. “He received some cards in June for his graduation and in July for his birthday, the mom noted. She added that Swazey “enjoys opening the box and looking for mail and carrying it home to open. Lately, there hasn’t been any mail for him.” The mom noted that her son lost 75 pounds in the process of these walks. Unfortunately, Swazey stopped receiving letters a few months later. “He is not able to speak but he seems frustrated when the box is empty,” the mom wrote.
It undoubtedly demotivated the young man and affected his will to make it to those daily walks. Kinney knew this was more than just receiving letters; it was about her son’s health and so she made a request — “Any letters, cards, pictures or drawings mailed to him would be greatly appreciated!” People listened to the worried mom’s plea and immediately got to work. With nearly 3,000 shares, people spread the word and started sending letters. Within 2 days of her post, the mom saw results.
Sharing in a follow-up, she wrote, “Carson got a few gifts from some kind-hearted people. A stuffy, a toque and a swim bag! He's a happy guy!” Over the next few days, there were packages, gifts, cards and more waiting — all for Swazey. Kinney shared another post of herself and her son happily and gratefully holding the packages received. “It was just beautiful. People are kind — they really are,” she remarked. As the boy looked at the simple gifts from strangers all over, he was delighted and boosted with energy. He found a new purpose to be up and on the road to the post office daily.
5 days after her original post, the mom shared a table loaded with letters and packages and with a happy heart wrote, “Mail x 300 today! Every province in Canada, all over the USA and some from the UK — we feel your love!” Over several posts, the mom expressed her thanks, not just for the mail, but for support and for coming through like no other. “For me, this has turned into something much bigger than just him receiving mail. This is about the compassion of strangers who are embracing my son with love and respect. His interests are being valued without judgment. I am truly humbled by this outpouring of support,” she said.