Meet Sydney and Logan Firkins, a happily married couple today. But before that, they were high school sweethearts. Surprisingly, they decided to change their prom plans in 2017. Instead of going to prom together, they invited two special needs students to be their prom dates.
As a peer facilitator, Sydney was involved in Princeton High School’s Life Skills program. While there, she became friends with a special needs student named Noah. Sydney was drawn to Noah’s wonderful personality and lively nature, and their friendship grew.
Sydney believed Noah would have an amazing time at prom because of his friendly and outgoing personality. She also knew this was a unique opportunity for him to experience such an event. After discussing it with her boyfriend, they agreed to have special dates for prom that year. Sydney would go with Noah, and Logan would accompany another student from the Life Skills class named Harley.
Sydney used her passion for softball to ask Noah to be her prom date. She wrote a message on a softball and gave it to Noah, helping him read the words, “Can I steal you for prom?” Noah was thrilled and quickly responded with a resounding “Yes!”
On the other hand, Logan wanted to make his invitation to Harley more romantic. He sent her a bouquet of her favorite flowers, pink roses, and a sweet message saying, “I’d be blooming pleased if you answered yes to prom.” Harley happily accepted the invitation.
On a special night, Sydney, Logan, Noah, and Harley attended prom together, creating wonderful memories. They all had a fantastic time enjoying the event and each other’s company.
Noah expressed how touched he was by the kind gesture of others going above and beyond to make him happy. Sydney shared that people approached her after hearing their story, but she believes it’s about inclusiveness and compassion, not about her.
The story of Sydney and Logan choosing special needs students as their prom dates are heartwarming. It shows the power of empathy, kindness and the importance of making others feel included. This gesture of inclusiveness created a memorable prom night for all involved and inspired others to spread compassion and understanding.
