Thanks Ketch. That kid could’ve been me. I was born with a cleph pallet and got lots of teasing from about 3 until I was around 7. Some of my earliest memories were kids in the apartment complex I lived in bullying me and making fun of me. I was very fortunate and blessed though. Support from my amazing parents, friends, church, teachers and success in sports allowed me to overcome the bullying and teasing. My dad played the biggest role in how he taught me to stand up to bullies, but it was still tough to deal with. I became friends with a few of the “cool” kids(which are still my best friends) and fortunately the bullying stopped before I got to Keaton’s age. The insecurity stayed with me for a long time. I still have some insecurity about it, but I feel I’m pretty blessed. I have an amazing wife and two awesome kids(the oldest being autistic).
I say all that to say how much of a gut punch it was to watch Keaton’s video. I weep for him. What a brave kid. Keaton’s raw honesty is quite encouraging. It seems like he’s got a good head on his shoulders. I love all the support he’s getting and I believe that will help. The real test will come in a couple of months when the celebrities have moved on. I pray that the kids who picked on him will have their hearts softened by this and will experience real remorse. I hope he makes some real friends.
If OB does something for Keaton, you’ll have support from me.