(Video above: John David Marlin works on his ABCs)
John David Marlin, the 2-years-old son of Cameron and Hannah Marlin from Helena, Alabama, is the Internet’s latest viral sensation after garnering over 10 million views on a video of him reciting the alphabet.
The video was captured at John David’s aunt’s house, and he has clearly gotten some good teaching from his parents and the crew at The Bell Center for Early Intervention Programs in Homewood, where John David, who has Down syndrome, works with the Bell Center team to meet his development goals.
“He is loved by everyone he comes in contact with,” said Daniel Todd, who first brought the video to Yellowhammer’s attention. “Once you watch the video you will see why.”
Hannah Marlin told Yellowhammer Tuesday morning that her son has an infectious love for life that rubs off on everyone who meets him.
In addition to reciting his ABCs, “he loves being outside and being free to just go anywhere he wants to. He loves to watch himself in videos and dance in front of mirrors,” she said. “He also loves playing hide and seek and helping with laundry and cooking in his kitchen.
When asked about the joys and challenges of raising a child with Down syndrome, Mrs. Marlin said it has been an incredible experience.
“There have been so many joys but one of my biggest blessings is watching the unconditional love, pure joy and unending happiness that John David radiates to not only his family, but everyone he meets,” she said. “It is amazing to see how his simple expressions can impact those around him for good.
“As far as challenges go, we have been so blessed to not really have any yet. I would say the only thing would be getting him in to early intervention as soon as possible. He has amazing therapists that have helped me so much to know what I need to be doing with him.”
And in case you were wondering if John David was a “one hit wonder” — far from it. Check out the video below of him receiving a picture of his little brother on his second birthday.
Don’t miss out! Subscribe today to have Alabama’s leading headlines delivered to your inbox.