Melissa Camus was heartbroken for her son Odin when "not one kid" replied to his birthday invitation. Odin has Aspergers syndrome and is bullied in school, so his mother wanted to throw him a special bowling birthday party to make him happy.
But what was supposed to be an exciting party for Odin took a sad turn when Melissa found out none of his classmates wanted to attend his 13th birthday party.
The Canadian mother took her frustrations out on social media and wrote on her Facebook page, "Some of you have seen me post about my son, Odin. His struggles with bullying, his difficulties with Aspergers. Well, today is his 13th birthday. And, unfortunately, not one kid rsvp'd to his birthday 'hang out' invite."
Melissa planned a "balloon avalanche" to greet Odin as he woke up on his birthday, then dinner at his favourite restaurant, presents, and cheesecake. But she wanted others to make her son feel extra special too, so she asked Facebook users to wish him a happy birthday on "his schmancy new cell phone."
Little did Melissa realise that her request would be picked up by the PTBO news and entertainment company, and be noticed by celebrities, athletes, and politicians alike. "Let's give Odin a terrific birthday," the original PTBO post read. "Text him birthday wishes, and drop by Lakeview Bowl if you can."
The Toronto Raptors tweeted, "Happy 13th Birthday to our new friend Odin!" Even Lord of the Rings actor Elijah Wood greeted him, "Happy birthday, Odin!"
Canadian politician Justin Trudeau also tweeted, "Wishing Odin a very happy 13th birthday today! Hope you have a great day. Bonne fête!"
Country singer Carrie Underwood was also touched by Odin's story and tweeted, "Heard about a sweet boy named Odin & his birthday. Really proud of Peterborough for making it special! Happy birthday, buddy!"
Other people followed suit and the Peterborough Examiner said that the young boy received over 5,000 text messages and 11,000 Twitter messages, all greeting him a happy birthday.
