妈妈为儿子的客订鞋发愁 退役NBA球星伸出援手
Jor’el Bolden, standing at an impressive 1.95 meters and weighing 172 kg, had been trying to find shoes that fit him due to his unusual size. Custom-made shoes were the only way, but the cost, more than a thousand dollars per pair, presented a challenge for Bolden’s mother, Tamika Neal, a single mom supporting her son.
On the Internet, Neal shared the difficulties of affording custom shoes for her son, saying, “I have spoken to some people who are able to make a shoe for him. They are asking $1500 for one pair. Seeing that he is continuing to grow, I think I should get two pairs. As I am a single mom, and it’s just Jor’el and I. I do work, but supporting the family and buying those shoes are going to be tough.”
The Kansas City community responded with kindness, pouring in more than $12,000 in donations (捐赠) after the story became known to the public. The story also caught the attention of national media, with “Entertainment Tonight” reaching out to the family.
What surprised them even more, retired (退休) NBA star Shaquille O’Neal made a Facetime call to Bolden. And less than a week later, three large boxes arrived at Bolden’s doorstep. The boxes had not only new clothes and things from Shaquille’s personal collection but, most importantly, nearly 20 pairs of shoes to fit Bolden’s unusual size.
“I am just thankful for everything right now, all the help and support that we are getting,” said a grateful Neal.