The Day a Young Boy with Autism Wasn't Alone at Lunch

Bo is a middle school student at Montford Middle School in Tallahassee, Florida. Though charming, Bo has autism, which has led to his social isolation. Every school lunch, eaten in the cafeteria, sees Bo sitting by himself—no one wants to join him.

But last Tuesday, Bo didn't sit alone for lunch. Players from the Florida State University football team visited the school, and one player named Travis Rudolph noticed Bo sitting alone. "I asked him if I could join him and he said, 'Sure, why not,'" Rudolph recalled. "We sat and had a great conversation. It turns out he's a big fan of our team."

Someone snapped a picture of the two sharing the meal and sent it to Bo's mother, Leah Paske, who was deeply moved by Rudolph's gesture. She posted the picture on her Facebook, writing: "Someone sent me this wonderful photo today with the caption 'Travis Rudolph eating lunch with your son.' I asked, 'Who is that?' and they replied, 'A player from Florida State.' Then tears just started streaming down my face... Travis Rudolph, along with some other players, visited my son's school today. I'm not sure what prompted this kind person to eat with my son, but I'm happy to say that his gesture won’t be forgotten soon. For one day, I didn’t have to worry about my sweet boy eating alone because he sat with someone he admires. Travis, thank you so much. You made this mom very happy, and we are your fans for life!"

As for Rudolph, he didn't quite understand the fuss. "It was very easy to talk to him. He has a sweet smile and a warm personality." His coach, however, appreciated the significance of the act. "There are many ways to impact other people's lives... I'm very proud of Travis; he made this young man's day."