Prom is supposed to be a happy, fun night for friends and first relationships. But whether it’s a romantic evening or a platonic outing, one thing is for sure: For teens, prom is a night intended for special memories.
But for two teenagers living in Waupaca, MI, what started out as a festive dance has quickly become a viral sensation — and it’s all because of one simple sign. Who knew that one photo could spark such national attention?
Mikenzy Snell and Matt Pliska both knew their prom was going to be a little outside of the norm. But after their many years of friendship, these two teens were accustomed to living outside the box.
So when prom night rolled around, the two couldn’t resist taking the opportunity to make an important statement. When asked to pose for a photo, the two held up a sign — and now, its message is being read around the world.
After scrolling through their amazing story, be sure to watch the heartwarming video below.
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It all began in 5th grade, when Mikenzy and Matt — now both juniors at Waupaca High School — were partnered up on a field trip. Since that fateful day, the two have remained inseparable.
They do everything together. “They see movies, go out for dinner and to go watch high school sporting events together,» said Mikenzy’s mom to Yahoo Parenting. “Some of her best times had are with Matt.»
Because they’re such close friends, it was no surprise when the two decided to attend their prom together. Donned in a crisp black suit and a beautiful mermaid-style dress, the two hit their school in style.
For both teens, it was a wonderful night. They danced, laughed with friends, and took tons of great photos — but of all the happy moments captured on film, one specific photo took the internet by storm.
When asked to pose for one particular photo, Mikenzy and Matt took the opportunity to make an important statement: They held a sign that read, «Real friends don’t count extra chromosomes» — referring to to the fact that people with Down syndrome have an extra copy of chromosome 21.
But for Matt, neither his disability nor his past fight with leukemia can keep him down. As Mikenzy told WRIC, «He’s such a positive person. He always has a smile on his face.»
But for Matt, neither his disability nor his past fight with leukemia can keep him down. As Mikenzy told WRIC, «He’s such a positive person. He always has a smile on his face.»
Matt’s positivity has had such an impact on Mikenzy that it’s inspired her whole future: She now coaches for her school’s Special Olympics basketball team, and she hopes to one day have a career working with those with disabilities.
But no matter where life takes these two bright young people, one thing is for certain: They’ll always remain the best of friends. “I think it’ll be a forever friendship,” says Mikenzy.
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