Sometimes, celebrities can change someone’s life for the better without even knowing they did. This was the impact Shaquille O’Neal had on a Florida mom and her late son, John. She came on TikTok and shared an emotional video addressing O’Neal and thanking him. She started saying how she and John bonded over basketball as they watched great players, including O’Neal. Since she wasn’t making much money, she would buy him Shaq shoes, and he absolutely loved them. When the mom finally started earning more money, she and John would donate to Angel Tree kids. One day, John told her they should add Shaq shoes to every angel tree they pick, and they did just that. “It was our thing,” she said before sharing that John died in April of a heart attack.
The Florida mom continued her emotional story, describing how hard this year has been for her. Since John would have turned 31, she bought 31 Shaq shoes and 31 basketballs to donate them to the Boys and Girls Club in his name. “I just want to thank you. You were someone who brought so much joy to him as a little boy and a young man and a man. You are part of the reason that we had the opportunity to get so close,” she told O’Neal.
This heartwarming story didn’t end there. The video was seen by thousands and it reached O’Neal’s son Shareef. He made sure that his father saw it. Now, O’Neal will donate 300 pairs of Shaq Shoes to any charity the Florida mom picks. She plans to give them to the Boys and Girls Club. O’Neal didn’t stop there. They will also create a custom shoe in her son’s honor and send her a copy. It would be given to John’s son, which makes this story even better. With such a gesture, the bond between John and his mom would always stay alive.
People Reacting to the Florida Mom’s Emotional Video
The Florida mom’s emotional video moved people. They were also happy with what O’Neal did. This is why one person wrote, “I’m convinced Shaq is the best person on the planet.” Another person even said, “Don’t be surprised if Shaq himself delivers those shoes. That definitely seems like something he would take the time to do.” More people applauded O’Neal as someone wrote, “The stories of Shaq’s generosity are endless. He’s one of the most genuine people out there.” Another comment read, “Shaq will NEVER LET ANYONE DOWN! He always pulls through. He’s the real MVP! The only athlete that we need to cherish forever!”
Other comments also focused on both O’Neal and John’s mom. “Shareef is exactly what I picture Shaq teaching him at a young age, always be kind, give back to the ones less fortunate and cherish every day you are blessed to walk this earth. Sending lots of love from the deepest part of Sweden to you and your family. People who are truly loved never die, they move forever in the hearts of those who loved him,” one person wrote. Another person told her, “Your son’s legacy is living on and creating a beautiful movement of GIVING and LOVE. Grief is so hard. Just know that you are not alone. Many people are holding you and your family in our hearts.” This is how celebrities should act.
