Dear Lisa, a cashier at Wendy’s,
Today, my 10-year-old son and I stopped by for lunch during your shift. When you asked him how his day was going, I noticed his response might have taken you by surprise. You looked at him, then at me, as he continued speaking, a familiar scene in our lives. As his devoted speech and language coach, I gently nudged him, saying, “You can respond with ‘I’m good!’”
What happened next truly amazed me. Instead of turning to me for his order, you engaged him directly. He answered your question, and you leaned in, saying, “I think you’re asking for a cup of water, right?” He nodded, and then you asked, “What about food? Aren’t you getting anything to eat?” After he excitedly shared a jumble of words, you kindly asked him to slow down. He took a breath and clearly said, “Fries.” “What size?” you inquired. “Medium,” he replied, and then you asked, “Anything else?” I shook my head, but my son confidently said, “Nope!”
What you may not have realized, as we took a moment longer, is that my son has childhood apraxia of speech. However, the label of his disorder didn’t concern you. What mattered was ensuring his order was accurate. You didn’t just allow him to be an equal customer; you treated him as one. You presumed his competence—not your version of it, but his own. By giving him the time and space he needed, you honored his dignity. You even asked for his name to put on the order screen, verifying the spelling with him just like any other customer.
I’m sure you didn’t expect a public shout-out or any accolades for your kindness. Your aim was simply to help a 10-year-old order lunch, just like any other child on a Friday afternoon would do.
Advocacy and inclusion can be complex. When they stem from genuine empathy and equality, they’re transformative. However, when they lack authenticity, they can be patronizing. By “allowing” my child to participate in activities, some well-meaning individuals unintentionally marginalize him. They overlook his worthiness to shine on his own.
Your genuine advocacy, Lisa, is the kind that can reshape societal views on disability. Thank you for offering not just a meal but also a side of hope.
Sincerely,
His mom
In Summary
This heartfelt note expresses gratitude to a Wendy’s cashier for treating a special needs child with dignity and respect. By engaging him directly and allowing him to express himself, she exemplified authentic advocacy that fosters inclusion.
Keyphrase: Wendy’s cashier kindness
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