Teacher returns to classroom after surviving cancer—then collapses in sobs seeing her former students' surprise
A teacher often leaves a powerful impact on their students. They not only shape their careers but also their personalities and help them navigate life and find purpose. Gabrielyn Watson, a cancer survivor and choir teacher, left a profound impact on every batch of students she taught, per TODAY. To congratulate and acknowledge her for surviving cancer and to express their love and gratitude for her contribution to their lives, the students came up with a heartfelt surprise when she resumed work.
In a video shared by Kleenex, the former students are gathered together to leave a message of a lifetime for their beloved teacher. A man named Peter Frank, an American Idol season 10 finalist and an alum from the class of '05, said that Watson “is one of best vocal teachers I’ve ever had.” Pursuing a career in entertainment, Peter dedicates it to his teacher. “Without her, I wouldn’t have been able to do it,” he noted. He mentioned how he didn’t have a tux for one of his competitions as a student and Watson stepped in to help, per Inside Edition. He recalled being unable to clearly express how he felt for his teacher and “how influential” she had been in his life.
Other students, too, had similar sentiments and it was only right they said it out loud. Allie from class '07 mentioned, “Some of us haven’t seen each other in 10 years, but we hear anything to do with Miss Watson and we’re there.” The students put up the surprise in the very same school they learned. Watson entered the campus thinking she was going to an interview. Unbeknownst to her, there was a heart-melting moment waiting. As soon as she walked through the corridor, she met Peter, who immediately burst into singing “Amazing Grace.”
Watson was already moved to tears and was in disbelief after seeing her student. Peter was joined by two others who continued harmonizing, putting into practice everything their beloved teacher had taught them. Unable to control herself, the teacher fell to the ground and hugged herself as she broke down. She sat there on the ground, listening to the powerful lyrics of the song and watching her work come alive through the resounding echoes of her talented students. Very soon, the rest of the students came together, rendering an Acapella version of the song, leaving her jaw-dropped and in tears.
She was shocked to see the students pull off something so brilliant and knew how much effort it took for them to make it work. The video also contained glimpses of the students coming together and rehearsing, pondering, making memories and a lot more. It was deemed to be a successful surprise. “I never thought I’d see them all together like that. This is great—to feel loved and to know that what you do matters.” After the performance was done, Peter said, “This is a small example of the gratitude we have for the many years you’ve invested in us. Because of you, I’m everything I am today.” "We all have a voice inside, and the best teachers help us find it. One group of students took the time to recognize their chorus teacher with a performance that she’ll never forget," the caption of the video read.