Hero teacher carried wheelchair-bound student through wildlife reserve so she could attend school trip

Ohio teacher Jim Freeman has been hailed as a hero for his kindhearted act
@TeamRyanSB
Harriet Brewis @HattieBrewis25 September 2019

A US teacher has melted hearts across the world after he went the extra mile to help a wheelchair-bound student join a class field trip.

Jim Freeman carried 10-year-old Ryan Neighbors throughout the Falls of Ohio State Park in Indiana, so that she could enjoy the day alongside her schoolmates.

Ryan has spina bifida, a condition which affects the development of the spinal cord and surrounding bones, meaning she has to use a wheelchair.

When Tully Elementary School announced their next outdoor adventure, Ryan’s mum Shelly King began preparing for an “alternate field day”.

Ryan Neighbors has spina bifida, which means she must use a wheelchair to get around
@TeamRyanSB

Ms King knew it would be impossible to travel around the location by wheelchair and so her daughter would have to miss the day out with her friends.

However, the concerned mother was soon able to ditch her alternative plans thanks to the kindness of Mr Freeman.

Detailing the episode in a gushing Facebook post, Ms King wrote: “If I haven’t bragged on my kid's school enough - well, listen to this.

“They are going on a field trip to Falls Of The Ohio today. Obviously, NOT accessible. I was preparing for an ‘alternate field trip day’ when a male teacher reached out and said ‘I’m happy to tote her around on the falls all day!’

“She is sooooo excited to do this independent from me,” she added.

The 10-year-old's mother has urged social media users to share the story and 'make love go viral'
@TeamRyanSB

Continuing her praise for the school, she wrote: “Sooooo blessed to have an ENTIRE school that is so compassionate and empathetic and NEVER makes her feel left out.”

The delighted mother then urged social media users to “make love go viral” by sharing the post.

It has received more than 3,200 likes in less than five days.

Admirers have praised the kind hearted teacher, with one parent commenting: “Love the fact my son is learning from this teacher!

“Mr Freeman is a wonderful human being and a great example to all our children at Tully!”

Another added: “I love this story so much!!! What a cutie she is and what a wonderful and caring teacher!!

"My sister had SB and was in a wheelchair her entire life. Growing up for her in the 70's and 80's, things were different then, less accepting than today and many less wheelchair friendly options/accessibility than we have today.

"I'm so glad your daughter got to be a part of her class field trip and love for this caring teacher.”

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