A Simple Act of Kindness Transformed a Boy’s Life—And His Mom Can’t Thank the Bus Driver Enough
For Kelly Isenberg, one good friend can make all the difference. That’s why she’s overflowing with gratitude for Charles Frierson, a school bus driver who became much more than just a driver to her six-year-old son, Kameron.
Kelly’s heartfelt appreciation for Frierson comes from the way he’s supported Kameron during a challenging time. Transitioning to kindergarten is never easy, but for Kameron, it was especially tough. On his very first day at Cane Bay Elementary in South Carolina, Kameron met Mr. Charles—and the connection was instant.
“He’s not just a bus driver,” Kelly shared in an emotional letter to the Berkeley County School District. “He’s an angel who appeared when we least expected.”
Kelly explained how Mr. Charles went above and beyond for Kameron every single day. From slipping extra treats into Kameron’s backpack to showing up on weekends to cheer him on at baseball games, Frierson’s care has been unwavering. “They even have lunch together sometimes,” Kelly revealed. “He brings my son his favorite ice cream—just for the two of them to share.”
This extraordinary friendship didn’t go unnoticed by Kameron’s special education teacher, Stephanie Williams. “When Kameron sees Mr. Charles, his whole face lights up,” she said. “He was struggling before, but now he’s thriving. Mr. Charles encouraged him in ways no one else could.”
For Frierson, driving a school bus is more than just a job. “You never know what kids are going through,” he said. “Even a simple ‘Good morning’ can make a difference. That’s what I love—building those relationships.”
Frierson calls Kameron his “little buddy” and says the six-year-old has changed his life as much as he’s changed Kameron’s. “He’s amazing, bright, and full of love,” Frierson shared. “To know him is to love him.”
Even though summer break has started, Kelly says the bond between Kameron and Mr. Charles isn’t going anywhere. “We’ve already planned ice cream dates, trips to the waterpark, and even McDonald’s hangouts,” she said.
For Kameron and Mr. Charles, this friendship is forever—and their story reminds us all of the power of kindness.
Who’s the Mr. Charles in your life? Share this story with someone who inspires you!
