Going to see Santa is a magical moment for most kids, but for 7-year-old Garrett Coyne, it’s more than just a tradition—it’s a highlight of his year. Garrett, who adores Santa, makes this visit a special family event every holiday season.
This year, however, their festive outing took an unexpected turn when a cruel act left Garrett’s mom, Nancy, heartbroken.
Nancy had parked in a handicapped spot at the mall, where Garrett could easily access his wheelchair. With their legal permit displayed, the two went inside to meet Santa and enjoy some holiday cheer.
But when they returned to their car, their joy turned to shock. Scrawled across the vehicle in lipstick were the words:
“UR not handicap.”
Nancy couldn’t believe her eyes. Her heart sank as she read the cruel message, knowing the author had no idea of the challenges her family faces every single day.
Garrett suffers from Batten disease, a rare and degenerative neurological condition. Diagnosed at just three years old, the disease has robbed him of his vision, his motor skills, and much of his ability to speak. Bound to a wheelchair, Garrett is fighting a battle no child should ever have to face. There’s no cure, no effective treatment—just the grim reality that Batten disease often claims its victims during childhood.
Despite all this, someone had judged their family without a second thought.
“I can’t believe someone could be so obnoxious and ignorant,” Nancy said, fighting back tears. “This is something we struggle with every day, and they had no right to do this.”
The mall, outraged by the act, has been working closely with police to identify the person responsible. While Nancy and her family initially felt anger, they now just hope the culprit realizes how much harm their words caused.
But this story isn’t just about cruelty—it’s also about resilience. After Garrett’s diagnosis, the Coynes founded a nonprofit called Garrett the Grand – Batten Fighter. Through their tireless efforts, they’ve raised over $100,000 to support research, help other families affected by Batten disease, and give Garrett the best life possible.
“Every day, we’re determined to show Garrett that nothing can crush his spirit,” Nancy said.
Her husband, Joe, shared their family’s mantra: “You just have to do the best you can and always move forward. You have to look at it all and say, ‘Let’s just live.’”
In the face of heartbreak and adversity, the Coynes are choosing kindness, determination, and hope—and they’re inspiring everyone who hears their story to do the same.
Do you think this family’s story deserves to be shared far and wide? Pass it along to remind people of the power of compassion—and to show the world that kindness always wins.
