This selfless act of inclusion and friendship touched the hearts of many and created an unforgettable prom experience
Today, Sydney and Logan Firkins are a happily married couple. But a few years ago, they were just high school friends who had been romantically involved before.
The youngsters were predictably excited about their prom and couldn’t wait to hold hands and hit the dance floor. But in 2017, as prom day approached, they decided to take a different route. They refused to attend the ball together.
Instead, they asked two other students who had trouble going to prom that night. Sydney used to be a peer facilitator in the Life Skills course at Princeton High School in Indiana. She also befriended Noah on her travels.
Noah Heichelbech, a special needs student, immediately caught Sydney’s attention with his big smile and endearing personality. Over time, they kind of became best friends. Sydney told 14 News at the time: “Noah is so caring and fun-loving that he greets everyone in the hallway. He’s just a burst of energy. He’s like my best friend. He’s better.”
Sydney was sure she was going to have a fantastic time at prom with her social and outgoing demeanor. She also realized that a child with special needs had little opportunity to participate in this event. Sydney stated: “I wanted it to be about them because it was their first time so they could enjoy this fun night.” Some young people want to but are not able.
After discussing it, she and her boyfriend decided to go on two special prom dates that year. Sydney brings Noah and Logan Harley to the Life Skills class. What followed were two prom proposals.
Sydney, a softball player, and cheerleader, wrote a message on the ball. She handed the letter to Noah and helped him decipher the message. Can I take you to the prom? was the relevant message. Noah was excited to hear the question. He immediately replied, “Yes, you can!” Logan made a more heartfelt proposal to his friend Harley.
He brought her pink roses, her favorite flower, along with a sweet note that said, “I’d be happy if you said yes to prom.” Naturally, she said yes, and the four teenagers had a wonderful time at the prom. As Noah’s news source notes, when people go above and beyond to make him happy, it’s really emotional.
He continued: “It really warms my heart that people care about me and want to interact with me in a similar way. Sydney agreed that she had a few contacts after her story came out, but insisted that those conversations were not about her.” at all, it was more about inclusivity and understanding.” Many people contacted me and told me that it was incredibly inspiring and that more people should be like this. But it’s not about me. Everything revolves around them and the chances of them succeeding in it. The video below has more information about this touching story.
Sydney and Logan’s selfless act created a ripple effect of kindness and understanding. It has inspired others to embrace inclusion, create opportunities and show compassion for individuals with special needs. The story serves as a testament to the transformative power of love, friendship, and acceptance.
As we reflect on this heartwarming prom experience, let it serve as a call to action—to treat others with kindness, seek opportunities for inclusion, and support a society that celebrates diversity. May this story inspire us to go above and beyond to make a positive difference in the lives of others, regardless of their abilities or circumstances.