I never imagined that a quick stop at McDonald’s would turn into a moment my family would cherish forever.
My son Callum is 6 years old and on the autism spectrum. Like many children with autism, everyday experiences can sometimes be overwhelming. On this particular day, a small change—the switch in the Happy Meal toy—nearly caused a full-blown meltdown at the counter. That’s when we met Nia, a McDonald’s cashier whose kindness left a lasting impression.
Nia didn’t rush us or seem flustered. Instead, she knelt down to Callum’s level and gently asked if he liked dinosaurs. When he shook his head, clearly upset, she reached beneath the counter and pulled out a small basket of extra toys. “Pick whichever one you like,” she said with a warm smile. Callum selected a little red race car, and his face began to brighten.
Then something extraordinary happened—Nia stepped out from behind the counter, sat at a nearby table, and played cars with Callum. She made engine noises and joined in his world completely. For a child like Callum, who often struggles with change and unfamiliar environments, her patience and attention made all the difference.
After a few moments, Nia leaned over and told me, “I talked to my manager—he said it’s okay if I take a quick break.” She smiled and added, “It’s been a busy day. This is just what I need.” Her empathy was overwhelming in the best way.
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