Diner with cerebral palsy was struggling to feed himself—a server's kind response surprised him and his mom
A little observation and thoughtfulness can lead to gestures that one can remember and cherish for life. Seeing someone in need and offering even the littlest help can mean more than one could imagine. A Raleigh restaurant server who goes by the nickname “Five” came through for a diner in the simplest yet most heartfelt manner, as stated by ABC 11. Lee Bondurant, who has cerebral palsy, was dining with his mom, Linda, at the restaurant. He was struggling to feed himself and the server thoughtfully noticed his difficulty and came through for him in the most wholesome way.
Usually, Bondurant is one who doesn’t want help. He strives to do things by himself and be as independent as possible. At the restaurant, too, he was trying his best to feed himself but was unable to manage. His mom, too, was trying to help him whilst she was having her meal. Seeing them struggle, Five was moved to reach out and offer assistance. He approached the man and offered to feed him. While Bondurant doesn’t usually like to accept help, he saw generosity and an earnest desire to help in the server’s request. "That was the ultimate kindness he showed me," he said. Sharing in a post on Facebook, the server is seen feeding Bondurant.
He ever so sweetly holds the bowl and feeds Bondurant spoon by spoon, making it look completely casual and genuine. The mom posted a caption praising Five. “When you dine at 42nd Street Oyster Bar, please ask for a server by the name of ‘FIVE.’ He saw me trying to eat and help Lee. He insisted on helping, showing Lee total respect. Lets me know there are still decent and compassionate people left in our country,” the caption of the post read. Bondurant’s mom was especially touched by the gesture. The fact that the server was offering kindness and not sympathy spoke volumes.
"For a total stranger to come up really touches a mother's heart, especially when your child has special needs," Linda remarked. The 51-year-old, too, was appreciative of the gesture. "To find someone that kind in a world like today, that is a hard thing to find. You don't find it every day," Bondurant said. While the server could not be contacted for further comment, his employers were delighted to share their remarks. They expressed how proud they were to see the man do his job while going above and beyond. "We're fortunate to have somebody like him working for us," said 42nd Street manager Ryan Tyson.
"I felt a great sense of pride to be part of an organization that has so many talented individuals, who truly have that hospitality gene." In an update, it was revealed that a few months later, Bondurant underwent surgery for his cerebral palsy. It has since improved his mobility and he has been figuring his way out day after day. A GoFundMe has been set up to help with expenses and other requirements for treatment and therapy.