A softer side of former President Donald Trump, rarely self-promoted or given attention in the press, was unexpectedly brought to the foreground after a viral video emerged of a young boy reacting to his well-wishes.
Eight-year-old Liam, who suffers from a rare brain disorder, is seen on video obtained by the Gateway Pundit reading a heartfelt letter from Trump, his “favorite president,” encouraging him to keep up the fight. The video was first shared by Trump advisor Kevin Smith who insisted that his boss was not seeking recognition from it. Trump’s gesture was meant to help Liam make his way through battling both a neurological condition as well as a growth hormone deficiency.
(POLL: Who Do YOU Think Won The Debate? VOTE NOW)
In the video, Liam’s mother watches as he carefully opens an envelope containing Trump’s letter, then begins to silently read it to himself. She asks her son if he’d like to read the letter for everyone in the room. At that point, Liam’s voice cracks and he grows emotional before handing her the letter, which she reads. “Dear Liam, Happy eighth birthday. Mrs. Trump and I hope you enjoy this special occasion surrounded by the love of your family and friends. We are so encouraged by the strength and determination you have shown throughout your young life and send our love and best wishes to you as you continue to fight.”
“Remember you are never alone, and we are keeping you in our thoughts and prayers for continued care and good health. May God bless you and your family. Stay strong,” she reads before asking him who signed the letter. “Donald Trump,” he sobs. “Thank you, I love you.”
WATCH:
It’s hard to find much positive news coverage about any charity giving or gestures by the 45th president. Much of the mainstream media has focused on settlements or tax write-offs, though the Wall Street Journal previously reported he has some years donated as much as $1.9 million to charitable causes. But when another eight-year-old asked President Trump to help him get the one thing he wanted for Christmas – a healthy dad – Trump wrote back to his request that he help find his father a new kidney.
“Dear Fore, thank you for sharing your story with me. I have shared your letter with my staff, and they are working to see what help they can provide,” it read. Fore Putnam, the young boy from North Carolina who made the request, called the former president’s reply “pretty cool” and told Fox & Friends in 2018 he hoped the media attention would help his ailing father recover from a rare blood disease.
(VOTE: Are You Supporting TRUMP Or KAMALA In November?)