Emotional moment blind man meets Mickey Mouse for the first time
It’s a moment most people never forget: their first trip to Walt Disney World.
In Basílio Santana’s case, it was the first time he met his childhood hero, Mickey Mouse.
A video of the touching moment between Mickey and the blind 21-year-old man is now going viral with more than 1.5 million views and nearly 17,000 shares.
“Today is very special,” tour guide Nataly White posted on Facebook. “This moment will never be forgotten.”
Mickey walked over to Santana and grabbed his hand, “Hey there, pal.”
Smiling, Santana held onto his arm as family members snapped pictures.
“I’m visiting from Brazil, pal,” Santana said.
“Wow! All the way from Brazil?” Mickey replied. “Cool! My friends have been teaching me some Portuguese.”
Mickey then proceeds to speak to Santana in Portuguese, impressing Santana and his family.
According to CBS affiliate CBS4Indy, Santa lost his sight at age 9 after being diagnosed with Devic’s disease -- an immunological disorder that may be confused with multiple sclerosis. He traveled to the Orlando park with his mom after winning a contest.
And he left the park feeling even more like a winner.
“He’s teaching us that what is essential is invisible to the eye,” White said on Facebook after witnessing the encounter.
The internet was also inspired by the thoughtful interaction.
“Where dreams come true,” one user commented.
“Disney Magic at its finest! Warms the heart and soul,” another replied.