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Mom Was Struggling To Find Shoes For Her Son. Shaq Came To The Rescue

February 28, 2024

Today's good news story comes from Kansas City, Missouri.

The Kansas City community rallied together to help 16-year-old Jor'el Bolden, a towering teenager who wears a size 23 shoe, find comfort and support. The story took an unexpected turn when NBA legend Shaquille O'Neal stepped in to make a significant impact on Bolden's life.

Bolden (left) / Shaq

Bolden, standing at an impressive 6'5" and weighing 380 lbs, had been struggling to find shoes that fit him due to his unique size. Custom-made shoes were the only solution, but the cost, exceeding a thousand dollars per pair, presented a challenge for Bolden's mother, Tamika Neal, a single mom supporting her son.

In a heartfelt plea on a GoFundMe account, Neal shared the difficulties of affording custom shoes for her son, stating, "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 not done growing, I figure I should get two pairs. As I mentioned, I am a single mom, and it's just Jor'el and I. I do work, but maintaining the household and buying those shoes is going to be tough."

The Kansas City community responded with overwhelming generosity, pouring in more than $12,000 in donations after the story aired. The heartening tale also caught the attention of national media, with "Entertainment Tonight" reaching out to the family.

To their surprise, retired NBA star Shaquille O'Neal expressed a desire to speak with Bolden and contribute to his comfort. The NBA legend made a Facetime call to Bolden and, less than a week later, three large boxes arrived at Bolden’s doorstep. The boxes contained not only new clothes and items from Shaq’s personal collection but, most importantly, nearly 20 pairs of shoes to accommodate Bolden’s unique size.

"I am just in awe of everything right now, all the help and support that we are getting," exclaimed a grateful Neal.

Watch the good news video below.