Manager Sees 6-Year-Old Boy with Down Syndrome at Checkout. That’s When He Escorts Him to Office
By Dreamer
What was intended to be just a routine shopping trip instead became an unforgettable experience for one mother and her young son. On that one special day, April Rouse left Sam’s Club with more than odds and ends – she took home priceless memories of her son’s joyful smile.
Earlier this year, Rouse and her son Carter headed to Sam’s Club. There, Carter, who has Down syndrome, found himself the recipient of an unusual gift from store employees.
When it was time to check out, one smiling cashier waved to him, and the two chose her register. With his boundless curiosity, Carter couldn’t help but investigate the register and scanner.
Carter was even allowed to scan some items, a task that thrilled and delighted him. In a Facebook post, Rouse Rouse praises cashier Jalessa Waddell for her patience, saying, “This sweet cashier at Sams Club in Wilmington took time with our boy today & let him scan every single item we had!”
But Carter’s fun wasn’t over yet! Their transaction complete, they were greeted by Mike Russo, the store manager.
Russo congratulated Carter on a job well done. Then, he asked Rouse if he could “borrow” Carter for a minute.
When she saw Carter again, she couldn’t believe her eyes. Carter was dressed as a Sam’s Club employee, right down to the badge and buttons adorning his blue vest!
Russo then took Carter on a short tour of the store, where he was able to interact with other Sam’s Club employees. Carter enjoyed the attention he received as the star employee, and Rouse happily snapped photos of the memorable experience.
Many believe that people with Down syndrome suffer from a severe intellectual disability, but, as Carter proves, that is simply not the case. As the National Down Syndrome Society notes, “Most people with Down syndrome have a mild to moderate cognitive disability [which] is not indicative of the many strengths and talents that each individual possesses.”
In fact, the NDSS notes that those “with Down syndrome attend school, work, participate in decisions that affect them, have meaningful relationships, vote and contribute to society in many wonderful ways.” Far from being limited, adults with Down syndrome are employed in “a variety of positions – in banks, corporations, hotels, hospitals, nursing homes, offices and restaurants.”
Carter’s experience in Sam’s Club is living proof that he is a happy, curious child who takes great interest in the world – and the world is taking great interest in him, as well! Who knows what further adventures await him and what great contributions he has yet to share!
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