A 2-year-old deaf girl celebrated her birthday with her family in a way that is touching people everywhere.
Ayanna Sanchez was born deaf. For a long time, her parents Jeanette Reyes and Nico Sanchez felt a heavy weight on their hearts. They worried about their daughter missing out on the world.
It is hard to watch people talk and know your child isn’t involved. Jeanette really felt that struggle. She said she did not want her daughter to grow up watching lips move without being part of the conversation.
The parents started working hard to master American Sign Language.
For Ayanna’s second birthday, they didn’t just buy toys or a cake. They hatched a plan to involve everyone. They asked the whole extended family to learn the signs for the song ‘Happy Birthday’.
When the time came, the room filled up with people. Instead of just singing, the whole family moved their hands in unison. They performed a unique rendition of the classic song just for her.
Every single family member made the effort because they wanted Ayanna to know she is never alone.
The video of the surprise has now been viewed tens of thousands of times.
“She knows she is loved.” Jeanette said.
WATCH: Family Learns ASL and Signs Happy Birthday for Their Deaf 2-Year-Old
