The story behind viral video of barber and young client with Down syndrome l GMA

You may have seen this video of Cincinnati-based barber Vernon Jackson cutting his client Ellison's hair. Now, get to know Jackson and Ellison and learn more about what brought them together.
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[@ptick16]

Vernon is the kind of person we need a lot more of in this world. Period.

[@rustynailmendlesohn8710]

I would add an exclamation mark ! at the end of your Period dot. I just saw this vid a minute ago. I so agree with you ptick16. 😊👍

[@lanaofficiel4042]

Vernon is a wonderful person. Compassionate and caring.

[@yapiolanda]

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@alexandersupertramp7353]

@@yapiolanda He's doing more than you ever will! 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🙄🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@yapiolanda]

@@alexandersupertramp7353 I know but I can't help but laugh😉😊😇🥰

[@marcykalista386]

))))

[@yapiolanda]

@@marcykalista386 don't worry I never under estimate it I understand. 🥰

[@katmaskow3168]

Why can't there be more people like Vernon? In tune, empathetic, kind, welcoming, patient, great attitude and brilliant smile.

[@hapibudha]

Wow, the beautiful ripple effect of human connections. Elliot and Vernon get each other. The cuddle at the end left me in tears.

[@user-zq9lo1bn1j]

This barber is an amazing human being the world needs more people like him

[@kbusby4824]

So true.

[@rayw.cunningham8643]

This barber is a special kind of a man. Has the heart, love to bring his talents and skills to help to take the fear out of the kids. Much respect for him. He is a rare breed of a man that has a very big mission.

[@louisemcvanesimmons4067]

I absolutely agree Vernon. God bless you. Continue to bless our world with your compassion

[@cb4664]

Amen.

[@bookwormwonder]

We need more people like this! As an autistic adult with sensory issues (36) I still have my mom do my hair as I can't deal with stylists and the environment.

[@BIGGYMIC63]

Hopefully you can get over not dealing with different environments stay strong

[@leslie6189]

I bet several hairstylists would be happy to meet you after shop closing or before opening. Lots of people are happy to help. And if you don't like the styling part... Just bring them pictures of what you want it to look like.. Real photos of yourself after your mom's fresh haircuts... Even a video of mom cutting your hair... Keep a video fo that for sure... And then God forbid mom can't do it... You will have some back up strategies

[@lawrup]

Applause for him not swatting the scissors

[@NikaK23]

🙏🏿💞🥰

[@lekalaxz-a-million4548]

I applaud you for this comment it takes courage 👏

[@lovethis1066]

What a gift God has given this man. That little boy’s smile. 😍

[@williamsroberto6598]

Hello, how are you doing?

[@emulan6407]

god didnt do shit, wake the fuck up and stop living a fairytale

[@marylynnacee4062]

Two beautiful examples of what we should all aspire to! Blessings to dear Vernon & Ellison!

[@abbiebrown2733]

This is incredible. This barber is a wonderful man . God bless this man ❤️

[@alexandersupertramp7353]

@@Broadtolove Eat shit, creepo

[@johncastro39]

I think the barber HAS been blessed with this little tiger new customer!!😁

[@cb4664]

Amen

[@elizabeth5985]

KINDNESS. KINDNESS. KINDNESS. Social media is so full of the "loud" mean people, we forget that the majority of people are quiet and kind. Thank you to Vernon for reminding us there is kindness in the world, and setting an example of how to express it.

[@jifoejoe]

I agree. But we need to get rid of social media.

[@JaneCrossan]

I'm in awe of you Vernon. You are a wonderful man ❤

[@jacqueschuck]

Vernon: your compassion brought tears to my eyes... Can you imagine if we had more humans like you? Your bright Spirit touched not only Elliot and his Mom but all the others kids and families. A huge ripple effect! Thank you for being YOU!

[@lenamckinley4366]

There's more humans like him all over the globe

[@Kathakathan11]

Be that human man

[@daundisputedtake7238]

There are plenty of good people don’t buy all the poison the media is selling

[@Dani_Capozzi]

We need more Vernons in the world. What a fantastic man. Kindness is free but produces much in the world. Well done, sir.

[@deeannazimmerman759]

THANK YOU VERNON! You are a true blessing in this world. We can all learn something from you.

[@jamesgriffitts5652]

Vernon, you are a man who understands Love! Thank you for your example.

[@user-lm9oo3ry8w]

Brought tears. Warms my heart to see beautiful, compassionate people in the world, doing beautiful things.

[@brendasusanchristensen7058]

Vernon has the heart the size of a mountain and such a beautiful soul! My heartfelt thanks for treating these precious children so lovingly and with infectious humor. It means everything! ❤️

[@Anita-vg8mp]

Never thought a haircut could make me laugh and cry at the same time. What a wonderful barber and sweet little client.

[@25Prague]

Vernon is a gift to the parents and children--we need more people like him!!

[@susanbrown822]

Thank you for covering this great story. Ellison is adorable and Vernon already has a reservation in heaven for his kindness!

[@ronascott4449]

This made my day and made me cry 😂! What a beautiful soul Vernon is to offer this service, and for free. The kids and parents have a safe, loving, inclusive environment for a haircut. Blessings to all!

[@princessbc9791]

This is so beautiful. The barber is a wonderful man, truly Heaven sent. God Bless this man!

[@cherylweltlich4059]

Being a special education teacher this just brought me to tears of pure joy. ❤

[@tjvirginia1319]

Thank you for the work you do with your students ❤

[@cb4664]

God bless YOU 🙏🏾

[@MidWestLife2022]

What a great barber!!! Not many would have the patience but the way this man handles it and laughs with this child is heartfelt 💞

[@creating1_c1999]

Cute kid with a lot of personality. Barber with a heart for kids. A barber and his client, making connections and building tradition.

[@christinab2287]

As a mom of a child with Autism, I love to see this, I pray that more people would be this fun and friendly with our kids as this barber is ❤

[@regand7830]

I know a family, that adopted an autistic baby boy. I've been his and his younger sister's sitter for so long. He's a young adult now. Always a challenge sometimes, but a beautiful boy with so many wonderful qualities. His sister is 16, and taller than me. I don't know WHERE the time went. But the memories are treasures. I love kids, I'll take them any way I can, because at the end of the day...I'd rather be a Vernon! I wish you all the best with your child.

[@MrJess-el8ku]

❤️❤️

[@daniellen9126]

Although the stop and go seemed like a game of sorts… the true gift you were giving (other than fun and connection😆) was the gift of voice, empowerment and respect. Thank you Vernon for listening and engaging with heart. You have empowered not only this child but also his family! We all have a voice that deserves to be honored. Keep up the great work Vernon and consider picture cues for your non verbal clients. A speech language pathologist can assist you with this.

[@jencook203]

Exactly. Providing a space where consent and boundaries are respected for children for whom that's not always the case? In respecting the kids' boundaries he provides a space for the kid to make it into a game. Ellison clearly felt safe enough to create that game, and that's HUGE.

[@tulsacaupain2882]

I know nothing about these cards but I like your suggestion and just the idea that this can help the barber help more chilfren. Thank you.

[@deirdregahansuttle5698]

You are such a gentleman to do this very kind thing to help families with something that other parents take for granted. Your young client is a total joy. Fantastic video.

[@Manlkiwaa]

That barber is how a lot of us should strive to be ...be nice ...be kind ...especially to the children... The World needs more people like him....Wish him and the child the best.

[@Littlebit31]

What a lovely man. You can see his kind heart in how he interacts with these children!

[@MandiMriel]

Omg mama he is adorable and he looks like you! He is so sweet! What a kind man that barber is! We need more hearts like this! As a mom of a child with CP it's important to feel like your child is part of the community, just like everyone else! Great job Eliss!!

[@nancyaguirre2307]

Inspirational! What can’t we accomplish when we let our hearts lead. You are changing whole worlds Vernon sir. God bless you.

[@paanne1013]

What a heartwarming story! The Barber is a wonderful person and that little boy was so precious.

[@BongMetal]

I dig it! Two cool cats hanging out together, cutting hair, and sharing a laugh. There’s a lesson in that for anybody who wants it. Peace and happiness to Vernon, Ellison and Julie 🕊️

[@tiago1805]

God continue bless him. Things like that warm our hearts. Who doesn’t want to have a hair cut with a guy with that good energy and smile. Great job guys.

[@johncastro39]

Two of the most beautiful human beings having a good time! Peace and respect to both of you. You too Mom! I really needed a video like this right now. Thank you.

[@elizabethschodel1423]

I love this video, it always puts a big smile on my face no matter how down I am, this beautiful young man and his hairdresser seem to have a lot of fun, it's so cool to see that there are people out there that actually have hearts

[@samanthapaige8198]

Absolutely beautiful how the barber adjust to the needs of his client and makes the parents feel comfortable as well. Cudos to you Sir and Thank You for your service because it is needed.

[@loriwest610]

So true❤Everyone has gifts to give. Vernon found his now he's helping others find theirs. ❤ Letting another person's light shine is a sign of respect and dignifies the individual. He's a good man.

[@kellyhickman6117]

Hats off to you Vernon need more people like you in this world!

[@deniserivera6157]

It is so beautiful to see the compassion and heart of a long-term relationship being built on trust. Truly amazing.

[@srodriguez721]

My heart smiled the whole time. God bless you Vernon.🙏🏻

[@indiahawkins8732]

Words can't explain how that lil boy warmed my heart and had me giggling at the "STOP!....and GO!". I loved this video.

[@paulinemuthena6545]

God bless the barber.He is so patient and loving and empathetic.The world needs more like him.Look at him hugging that kid!!!

[@kaydee3371]

This piece made me smile. What wonderful work this barber is doing for humanity as a whole. I hope we are getting the lesson.❤

[@markcrooks9231]

Imagine how nice the world would be if everyone was as compassionate as Vernon. Keep up with your good work mate.

[@camarojai6832]

Can we all appreciate the beautiful smile on Ellison's face 😁 and the pure joy and safe place the Barber has provided 🥰🥰🥰

[@ciekai7356]

That is it. A place where you are not judged in and comfortable. God bless you.

[@sooz9433]

What an adorable little guy and how awesome this barber is! A person with a great deal of compassion ❤️ Thank you for this wonderful story. Thank you to Vernon and Ellison✨️❤️🎈

[@Ladywolf2263]

We so desperately need more men like this. To me, this is what a REAL man looks like. God bless Vernon and the family who raised him. If he was my son, I couldn’t be more proud !

[@catherinep1800]

We need more people in the world like Vernon. He is wonderful 🥰.

[@leonakinglion3210]

Indeed. I think the world would be a better place.

[@jenniferlannon7103]

This story warms the ❤. Thank you Vernon for donating your time and being compassionate and patient. You are making a difference and I’m sure the parents appreciate you!! You have a great heart !!

[@sellis8808]

Thankyou Vernon, you are doing such an awesome job connecting with these children and letting them and their families feel safe and happy. Wish there were more of you. Thanks for sharing.

[@johnjunior7231]

Classic example of how great the world would be if at times businesses can look at clients as people and not a potential dollars

[@juk00]

Such a nice guy and wholesome experience for all

[@donaldduprey4770]

I was having a tough day until I saw this video and it lifted up the rest of the day for me. This guy has a heart of gold. God bless you man

[@danapatterson797]

You can see that this barber is very compassionate about his work and the connection with his clients keep up the amazing job great haircuts we need more people like you

[@chantelturner123]

What a sweet boy, and Vernon you are a fantastic human being. ❤️

[@wilmaallen9872]

What a wonderful expression of kindness while getting the job done. Sir, you rock!!!

[@christyg3013]

Is it just me, or is that one of the cutest kids ever? Kudos Vernon. You are a precious gift to the word.

[@catcar8212]

Bravo Vernon! You were designed with an enormous heart. You showed Ellison such kindness and respect. I wish you all the best from Connecticut.🌷🌷

[@anniebranziko5060]

I love this man and have never met him. May all of us who watch this carry this man’s energy into the world. ❤️

[@eliciaellis7428]

Love this kid he has such a sunny spirit! Kudos to this barber as well ❤️

[@charlottebezuidenhout2690]

What a lovely little boy … Vernon is amazing

[@traciekinser3551]

Vernon is an amazing man! We need more Vernon's in this world. And, Ellis' smile can turn anyone's bad day upside down. What a beautiful spirit he has!

[@lilahughes1205]

Ellis is adorable, what a champ!! Go Mr. Vernon...great customer service man!!

[@maxperry4978]

What a wonderful world this would be if everyone had the love and integrity let alone joy that these two offer both only want to see everyone being loved and happy

[@user-mh9fk6nz8k]

Vernon is an Awesome Barber/Hairdresser because he and Ellison seem to communicate so well! Patience is Vernon’s second name and he is soo kind to these children! It is SO SWEET to watch!!

[@kimbanks777]

Their laughter made my day. I joined in the laughing with tears filing my eyes from this beautiful interaction. The world needs more of this.

[@elbaolivera3707]

Love it! I have a grandson with downs and I pray that he gets the love and respect everywhere he goes. Your video is an inspiration for all parents and grandparents. God Bless you all. Thank you for sharing.

[@tonisumblin2719]

I was a nurse who once had a week long assignment taking care of aa Down’s syndrome boy. 10 years old. I absolutely loved this kid. And cried for weeks after he passed away. All children respond to love and kindness.

[@cb4664]

Tell him we said “hi”! 👋🏾👋🏾

[@CBM8933]

Aaaww this touches my heart. I have a great nephew who has down syndrome and what this guy does and how he treats him is amazing and special. He has a special touch and talent. We need more Vernon’s like that in the world.

[@PatrickGrandeen]

Two sweet guys making the world a better place. Thanks, Vernon!

[@sandraperkins203]

This is a wonderful story! We need to hear and see more stories like this. 👍❤

[@leannewarner-luqman4312]

Vernon you have a beautiful soul.These are memories that will last a long time with the children and parents. Thank you! Don't change.🙏🏾

[@sheilaburns8163]

Ellison what a sweet boy with a really cheeky smile and Vernon you are priceless .xx

[@user-rf8dn8zq4e]

Made me happy, made me cry-not with sadness but with joy! What a fantastic person to go to, to have your hair cut and what a truly lovable boy! Thanks for sharing❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@jeffreybroge9002]

You Sir, are such a pure loving soul, Thank you for being the person who these children can go to and be special

[@jenlong2756]

So wonderful to see how they get along!! Thank you Vernon for being such a big sweet teddy bear!

[@tonjawhitsell7053]

Damn dude, I got mad respect for you! The way you help these children is just a wonderful gift to the world of disabled children. You are one of the most wonderful human beings I've ever seen

[@brynne610]

Vernon you are sunshine, fresh air and a big smile in this world

[@bobbymcquoid6791]

Vernon and Ellison .. two Legends of being true brothers and friends .. this world needs the joy you both share .. thank you both

[@loriwest610]

Vernon puts these kids at ease. Life doesn't have to be so sad and scary ❤

[@laurak.donham8374]

So beautiful. We worked with gifted kids with special needs. My heart is full and it renews my faith in humanity. Thank you.

[@stacyscooby8488]

Amazing job we need more kind people who can understand people and accept people with special needs it’s rare to see thank you for accepting by opening up your heart and being kind.

[@edithwilliams6778]

So sweet.

[@amateurmeteorologistjoshbrown]

This is a special moment this little guy will never forget!

[@TheCrochetmama]

Thank you Vernon for treating special kids like a person!! As parents of special needs kids this means the world to us. ❤

[@fraidysteinberg2365]

What a personality, this boy is such a darling, making people laugh!! Love!!!

[@shaindystern1038]

The man is so nice

[@elizabethkates670]

Yes kindness is free. He made this little boy's day. The smile on the child's face warms my heart and the barber gets a long distance hug. This story is beautiful ❤

[@ThomasKOdell]

God bless that barber. Heart of gold.

[@annettec9112]

Vernon you are a great guy, God bless you. And Ellison is adorable.

[@debrajane9610]

Vernon you're a good man , Ellison is a sweetheart ❤

[@janetmiller2980]

I like Vernon's philosophy of self acceptance and being open to love.

[@elizabethwatson9112]

These two are awesome. It's so beautiful to see someone to freely give their time to work with the special needs community. We need more like him.

[@echoecho1913]

Vernon is a gift to humanity ❤️

[@suecoady8017]

Vernon, you are over the top on the empathy, understanding, compassion meter.

[@nsofinibime3575]

Cute little guy! God bless you, barber 🙏. People like you make the world a better place!

[@marysmith861]

I love that Vernon played along immediately. That's being really in tune with your client. So, cool. Made me laugh.

[@Mrsquick]

I'm crying. What a beautiful soul, Vernon is. Compassion is very lacking these days. To know that there are people out there who still care makes my heart smile. ❤😊

[@reymoni22]

I had a Brother with Down syndrome what this amazing Barbar does brings Tears to my eyes, such a good and wonderful Men. Thank you Sir”🙏

[@sharonwinningham808]

He's adorable! What a gentle, caring man Vernon is! Children know when adults are good people. Love this ❤❤❤