Known for their wholesome family videos, thatdeaffamily have cultivated a sizable following of over 547k followers over on TikTok. A “Proud Deaf Latinx Family,” as indicated by the description in their bio, one of the content creator’s unique selling points is that their videos largely center on the daily challenges faced by their two deaf children, Everlyn and Jabez. On the weekend, during a routine family trip to Disneyland Park in California, however, the family bumped into the iconic Buzz Lightyear, the beloved superhero action figure from Disney-Pixar’s Toy Story series. When Jabez interacted with his cartoon hero for the first time in real life, he was shocked to discover that the loveable space ranger knew sign language and was able to effectively communicate with the youngster.
The caption at the beginning of the video states, “POV: Buzz Lightyear realizing that we can sign.” and sees young Jabez meeting the animated superhero at the famous Californian theme park for the first time. Jabez’s mom and sister are just off to the side of the camera’s gaze and can be seen encouraging him, with his mom signing, “He’s a space explorer!” Just like that, Buzz quickly registers that wee Jabez is deaf, and springs into action, asking the mom using ASL (American Sign Language): “Can he sign?!“
After an audible gasp, Jabez signs, “Yes.” and a cute and wholesome conversation ensues between the duo. Firstly, Jabez looks down at his blue jumper and points to the rocket emblazoned across it, and signs, “This is a rocket!” With animated energy, the space ranger responds by pointing up to the sky, signing, “Over there! That’s me!” A huge smile illuminates across the youngster’s face as he realizes that he can communicate with his favorite Toy Story character.
Next, continuing to use sign language, Buzz asks Jabez what his name is. With help from his mom, the youngster spells it out correctly and Buzz reciprocates, before giving him a wee hug and adding, “Nice to meet you.” and “I love you.” Even Jabez’s sister gets in on the action and spells her name out using sign language. Finally, the family take a picture together with the three of them: Jabez, Everlyn, and Buzz. Seriously, it’s the most heartwarming video I’ve seen for a while!
Of course, I’m not the only one who felt that way as the video continues to gain momentum online, with plenty of netizens chiming in with their thoughts and reactions to the sweet clip. Interestingly, the official TikTok account of Disney Parks got involved, commenting on the post:
Starting off this Monday morning in tears 🥹🫶
Disney Parks
A second TikTok user, meanwhile, wrote: “Omg the way his face lit up when Buzz started signing. 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭”
A third commenter added, “BUZZ is definitely a DAD 😭♥️“
Lastly, one of the most up-voted comments read, “Buzz needs a raise this made me cry“
Honestly, that final comment hits the nail on the head. Whoever it was inside that Buzz Lightyear costume deserves a reward for not only going above and beyond, but for genuinely making one youngster’s dream come true.
