When 11-year-old Shayden Walker knocked on his neighbor’s door, he wasn’t expecting much. He just needed a friend—someone who would stand by him. What happened next was beyond his wildest dreams.
Captured on a doorbell camera, the video of Shayden standing nervously on the porch of his neighbor, Brendan Ray, quickly went viral. In the clip, Shayden, wearing a Jaws T-shirt, shyly asks if Brendan knows any kids his age—11 or 12—because, as he puts it, “I need some friends. Like, really bad.”
@brennanray Its takes 2 seconds to make someones day, you never know what people are going through until you get a chance to talk to them. This young man is well mannered, kind, and brave. So tiktok can we help shayden make some friends???#fyp #bekind #nobullying #love #kindness #letschangetheworld ♬ original sound – Brennan Ray
Brendan points to a house down the street, but Shayden explains, “They’re not my friends anymore because they’re bullies to me.” His vulnerability is palpable, and Brendan’s simple act of listening speaks volumes.
When Brendan mentions he has a two-year-old son, Shayden’s face lights up. “That’s great,” he says, his voice filled with joy. “I love two-year-olds. They’re just the cutest.” He even shares that he used to have a two-year-old sister.
Before walking away, Shayden thanks Brendan and promises to say hi whenever he sees him in the neighborhood. It was a small moment—just a conversation on a doorstep—but it touched millions.
The video, shared on TikTok, has since garnered over 62.3 million views and 10.1 million likes. Comments flooded in, praising Shayden’s courage and offering heartfelt support. “How brave of him,” one user wrote. “He’s so nice.” Another added, “I hope he finds true friends. No one deserves to be bullied.”
Brendan and his wife were so moved by Shayden’s story that they decided to do more than offer kind words. They created a GoFundMe page to support Shayden and his family. The goal? To raise enough for a gaming system, new school clothes, and even amusement park tickets.
Donations poured in from strangers who were touched by Shayden’s bravery. Within days, the campaign surpassed its goal, raising an astonishing $37,000.
The overwhelming response didn’t just provide financial help; it reminded Shayden—and the world—that kindness and compassion can make a difference.
Brendan later shared an update: “Thank you all for your generosity and kindness! We’re amazed at how this community has shown up for Shayden.” The couple has paused donations while coordinating with Shayden’s family but promises to keep everyone updated.
This story is more than just about one boy. It’s a powerful reminder that even small acts of kindness—listening, caring, supporting—can change a life.
Let’s continue to spread love and stand up against bullying. Share this story with someone who needs to see the power of a community coming together. After all, #KindnessMatters.
