Facebook plea brings hundreds of guests for 10-year-old's birthday

SHAKOPEE, Minn., April 20 (UPI) -- A Minnesota mom's Facebook post led to hundreds of strangers showing up to her 10-year-old daughter's birthday party after classmates declined invitations.

Jenny Moretter of Shakopee said her daughter, Mackenzie, thought no one was coming to her birthday party after classmates failed to respond to invitations.

Moretter said Mackenzie has Sotos Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that left her with some brain damage.

"I have a hard time making friends at school," Mackenzie told WCCO-TV.

Moretter put out a Facebook plea Friday for people to come to the Saturday party and bring their kids.

The post read:

"Hello moms. I'm writing because I have a beautiful daughter named Mackenzie who is turning 10. I recently invited several girls to her birthday party this Saturday. I got cancellations or no calls at all saying whether they're coming or not. My daughter has Sotos Syndrome, which means she has development delays such as speech and learning. At school she struggles and is often alone on the playground. As a mother, it is heartbreaking being you want your children to be happy. I'm reaching out to moms who have daughters between the age of 9-11 that would love to come to a birthday party tomorrow from 11-1:30. You don't have to bring gifts or stay long, just stop by and wish her a happy birthday. As of now, I have two girls coming, which is family. She would be so surprised to have other girls just show up. If you are interested please send me a pm and I'll give you my address. Thank you all for reading a mother's wish!"

Moretter said she was hoping her post would lead to at least 10 kids showing up for the party, but the family was shocked and delighted when an estimated 400 people showed up.

The party guests included former Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Charles Johnson and Queen Elsa from Disney's Frozen.

Shapokee Mayor Brad Tabke issued a proclamation declaring Saturday "Mackenzie Moretter Day" in honor of the birthday girl.

Jenny Moretter said she has been overwhelmed by the support from guests and hundreds of others who posted well-wishes on the party's Facebook page.

"It's truly inspiring to know somebody who cares for somebody they don't know," she said.