Patrick King Jr., from Lancaster, California, is a sweet, 8-year-old boy. Although he’s shy, Patrick Jr. is pretty much like any other young man, but there are a few special things about him.
When Patrick Jr. was younger, he was diagnosed with autism and mutism.
Autism is part of the autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a group of conditions that affect brain development. In general, these disorders are diagnosed by observing difficulties associated with social interaction and communication, and the presence of repetitive behaviors.
Because communication problems are prominent in ASD, it’s not rare for a child to also be diagnosed with mutism—the inability to communicate verbally. Autism Speaks explains, “Some children diagnosed with autism remain mute throughout their lives. Some infants who later show signs of autism coo and babble during the first few months of life, but they soon stop. Others may be delayed, developing language, as late as age 5 to 9.” Many also rely on alternative forms of communication, such as the use of pictures and/or sign language.
Although Patrick Jr. did not speak, his parents, Patrick Sr. and Angie, had learned to communicate with him through gestures. Throughout their day-to-day interactions, they managed to confirm what they had long suspected—that their son had a passion for music and dance.
Patrick Jr. couldn’t help himself around music. The beauty of the rhythm always managed to hypnotize him, sending the boy’s body into a melodic sway. One day, however, Patrick Jr.’s parents discovered how powerful music could truly be.
On March 29th, 2017, Patrick Sr. decided to introduce his son to the talent of American singer Tori Kelly. The man pulled up her stunning version of “Hallelujah”, which was featured on the soundtrack Sing. As Patrick Sr. had expected, his son immediately falls in love with the song. And in a video, uploaded to YouTube, you see the young boy grin as he looks at his father and listens.
Although Patrick Jr. had never spoken before, his father encouraged him to sing along with the lyrics. Then, to everyone’s amazement, a miracle occurred.
With his father’s encouragement, the boy grows increasingly confident, opening his mouth to sing the words. When a “Hallelujah” emanates from his lips, his family is in sheer disbelief.
When his mother realizes what is happening, she lets out an excited scream. Patrick Jr.’s brother also approaches, watching the incredible display.
In a 45-second clip, we get to witness an ordinarily silent boy transformed by confidence and the beauty of music.
Patrick Sr. told Caters Clips, “It was an incredibly emotional moment.”
The King family’s video was picked up by Caters Clips and has since gotten more than 24,000 views! The video is incredibly touching, and comments beneath it include:
“He’s wonderful, well done! What an amazing moment to capture!”
“Wonderful! Great job, buddy!”
“Cute!”
“What a beautiful video”
See it for yourself below!
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