The HEARTWARMING thing the net did when nobody came to this boy's party

Most kids love the run-up to their birthday parties. 

Last week, in the run-up to his tenth birthday party, Gerald Hamilton was no different. 

But he was heartbroken when nobody turned up. 

The boy, who had five skull surgeries over his short life, which left him with learning disabilities, sat alone in his home, waiting sadly for the party guests who never showed up. 

His gran, Amelia, was devastated for the poor boy, and took to Facebook to share her family's disappointment. 

She explained that her daughter, Gerald's mum, had invited 30 kids to his party and 12 had agreed to come to their Indiana home. 

"When my daughter called the 12 parents to find out what was going on, here is their response," wrote Amelia. "My child can't play with yours, he is just too different."

Amelia said that it's especially hurtful given that Gerald is "the kindest, most compassionate kid I know," even if he might not be able to keep up with his classmates. 

Luckily, Amelia wasn't going to take her grandson's pain lying down. She put out a call for people to send Gerald birthday cards to let him know he was special and loved.

The post was shared by thousands of people and, incredibly, cards poured in from all over the world, including the UK and Vietnam.

Then the presents began to roll in. Amongst the gifts Gerald received were a tablet and Minecraft toys. 

"It's overwhelming," Amelia said. "It restores faith in mankind."

But it wasn't just randomers from around the world who showed their generosity for Gerald. 

Locals also did their bit, with Gerald getting a visit from the local fire and police departments, who brought gifts and wished him a happy birthday.

While Amelia knows that this outpouring of support doesn't mean all of Gerald's problems will disappear, she's hoping that it raises awareness of the importance of raising children to be compassionate and understanding.

"It's still emotional, that people can raise their children to be hateful," she said, on a follow-up video. "Gerald just wanted kids to come and have cake and ice cream. He didn't really care about the presents. It's not about the presents. He just wants friends." 

While the presents and cards were wonderful. Amelia maintains that the best part of people's response was the gestures of friendship.

"There have been several play date offers – roller derby, football games, baseball games," she said. "Gerald is delighted. He just wants people to play with him."

We hope that kind, compassionate people continue to make their way into Gerald's life. He sounds like a wonderful boy who deserves only the best. 

Below, you can watch the vid of nice folks turning Gerald's frown upside down.

SHARE to remind mums that teaching kids to be kind and understanding is really important.