The day started with good news: the young people were told that they could taste what it is like to drive a car. And not just the first car, but a real race car on the TT circuit of Assen. And if that wasn’t enough, they were also offered a driving lesson in a Tesla afterwards. The young people couldn’t believe their luck and were continuously filmed with a big smile on their face.
Bad news
In the evening the fun continues when they cook together and bake a cake. After dinner, however, the conviviality is brutally disrupted. Gordon has received a message from Thirza’s parents and takes her outside for a while. “I’m going to take you out of the group because something really bad has happened and your mom and dad are here to tell you.” Thirza already sees the storm coming. “I think I already know a little bit,” she stammers. Thirza is then told by her parents that her aunt has died, while the rest of the young people are unsuspectingly inside watching television.
Emotional moment
Gordon finally takes Thirza inside, so she can share the news herself with the group. “My aunt Jacqueline died in her sleep,” Thirza announces. “I have to leave tonight because tomorrow is the service and I want to be there. So I’ll be back tomorrow night. And I feel really bad for me.” The young people immediately burst into tears and sympathize with Thirza. When Thirza goes upstairs to grab her bag, everyone is defeated on the couch.
Comments Twitter
When she comes downstairs to say goodbye, she gets a big hug from everyone. The moment causes emotion for the viewers, but also a laugh. When Thirza walks outside with Gordon not much later, she says that she has ‘a lot of typhus in it’, given that she had just as much fun.
Are you all crying right now? Or am I the only one? ?#downtheroad
— ??????? (@Mloes79) February 1, 2022
I am still very moved by #downtheroadwhat an inspiring program.
I really hope this makes people think about how society is organized and that there is still so much that needs to improve for people with disabilities if we want to be able to participate fully ❤️— HoutsmaAnne (@Houtsmaanne) February 1, 2022
Beautiful and moving that vulnerability, openness and honesty. Gordon can finally be himself too. Mandatory food for everyone in these “me me me and the rest can suffocate” times #downtheroad
— Dr. Seppl@1988 (@KolkSiep) February 1, 2022
They are all so sweet, aren’t they!!?????? If only everyone was a bit like their.. #downtheroad
— Robin Muyderman (convinced Dusanist) (@RobinM94) February 1, 2022
Her aunt passed away and now she has severe typhus. What a lovely, honest lady. #downtheroad
— Rob van Raay (@robvanraay) February 1, 2022
Oh my gosh, how touching ?? On the other hand, how great to see that these ordinary people are ready for each other in good and bad ❤❤ Heart in the right place. Many people can learn from that.#downtheroad
— Dennie Gaasendam / DG Photography (@DennieGaasendam) February 1, 2022
Source: LOOK