A 28-year-old man has revealed the events that led to a viral video showing him dancing at his wedding with his mum, who has ALS.
Zak Poirier celebrated his big day on 9 April 2022, and later posted a video showing his younger brothers helping their mum out of her wheelchair so she could share a dance with the groom.
In a post on Instagram, Poirier explained his mum is not able to stand on her own, adding that she inspires him to be 'humble, kind and selfless'.
The video spread like wildfire, receiving thousands of views on Instagram, being shared widely online and getting picked up by news stations.
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Poirier's mum, Kathy, was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in her early 50s. The disease affects the nervous system, in turn leading to loss of muscle control.
In an interview with Fox News Digital, Poirier explained he and his mum had planned to share a moment on the dance floor, but 'the actual dance itself was spontaneous'.
He continued: "We were both pretty adamant that we wanted to share a dance regardless of how long it was. By the time we got up there, we weren't really sure how it would work — but it went perfectly, and it was great."
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Poirier and his mum danced to 'Humble and Kind' by Tim McGraw at the Ever After Farms Blueberry Wedding Barn in Mims, Florida.
Kathy admitted she was 'very nervous' prior to the viral moment, though she felt honoured her son was determined to share a dance with her.
She explained: "I was not nervous about dancing with my son. And I was not nervous about my other two sons holding me up or getting me up. That wasn't what bothered me.
"It's that this was such a milestone in one of my kids’ lives, and it wasn't what I had envisioned.
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"It was really emotional to have to accept the fact that I can't stand or use my hands. And that people would be watching me. And I felt like I was going to be judged.
"But I knew I wanted to do it, and I wasn't going to let anybody tell me I couldn't."
Kathy said being held by her sons made her feel 'strong', and that her fear 'melted away' when she realised how supportive the crowd was. Speaking to Good Morning America, she said the moment was one she had 'dreamed about for a long time'.
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After the video went viral, Poirier said he's 'really glad' his mum is getting the 'attention and recognition she deserves', while Kathy is grateful to be able to help raise awareness for ALS.
"This disease — it’s been over 80 years since Lou Gehrig was diagnosed and there's still no cure. And doctors will tell you that you have three to five years to live. Don't ever believe that. Because you can fight it," she said.
"I think when you put your mind to it, you can overcome any obstacle in your way."
If you’ve been affected by any of these issues or want to learn more about ALS, you can visit the ALS Association at their website, https://www.als.org/.
Emily Brown