A rarely highlighted, softer side of former President Donald Trump surfaced unexpectedly after a viral video showed a young boy’s emotional reaction to Trump’s well-wishes, drawing attention to a moment that has largely gone unnoticed by the press. Eight-year-old Liam, who suffers from a rare brain disorder, was captured on video posted online reading a heartfelt letter from Trump, his “favorite president,” encouraging him to stay strong in his fight.
The video, first shared by Trump advisor Kevin Smith, emphasized that Trump was not seeking recognition for the gesture. The former president’s message was intended to support Liam as he battles both a neurological condition and a growth hormone deficiency. In the video, Liam’s mother watches as he carefully opens an envelope containing Trump’s letter and begins to read it silently. She gently asks if he’d like to read it aloud for everyone in the room. Overcome with emotion, Liam’s voice cracks as he grows teary-eyed, handing the letter to his mother, who then reads it aloud for him.
“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 responded as he sobbed sobs. “Thank you, I love you.”
WATCH:
Meet Liam.
A New York boy with a rare brain disorder and growth hormone deficiency.
Who got a very special 8th birthday letter from a very special person.
This is the side of Trump the media WILL NEVER show you. pic.twitter.com/5NvwbyXyVk
— kevin smith (@kevin_smith45) September 12, 2024
Positive news coverage of charitable gestures by the 45th president is rare, as mainstream media often focuses on settlements or tax write-offs. However, The Wall Street Journal previously reported that Trump has donated as much as $1.9 million to charitable causes in certain years. In one heartwarming instance, when another eight-year-old asked Trump for help in getting the one thing he wanted for Christmas—a healthy dad—Trump responded by offering assistance in finding a new kidney for the boy’s father.
“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 that he hoped the media attention would help his ailing father recover from a rare blood disease.
