‘High School Students Surprise Beloved Custodian with Dream Car: A Heartwarming Tale
Many may remember September 10, 2024, as the day students at James Madison High School in Virginia transformed their beloved custodian’s dream into reality.
Francis Apraku, a cherished custodian at the school, celebrated an extraordinary birthday surprise that he could never have imagined. Francis, who originally hails from Ghana, had made the United States his home a decade ago and had since become an integral part of the school community.
Francis’ radiant kindness and consistent friendliness had deeply impacted the students. “Francis has been super approachable and cordial since we first met him, and he even prays for us often,” voiced a student. When probed about his birthday wish, Francis expressed his aspirational dream of owning a Jeep Wrangler, although he believed it to be a far-fetched dream.
However, a group of determined freshman students embarked on a mission to turn his dream into reality. They initiated a GoFundMe campaign and succeeded in amassing over $20,000 in no time at all. The most beautiful part of the story unfolded when they surprised Francis with a 105 candy red Jeep Wrangler.
Francis’ reaction to the surprise was overwhelmingly emotional, as tears of joy streamed down his face. “I can’t believe this is happening in my life… I give thanks to almighty God for making today for me,” said Francis, completely overwhelmed by the surprise.
The students were overjoyed to reciprocate the kindness shown by Francis. “Francis is more than a custodian to us, he’s a dear friend. His kindness is infectious, and we just said, ‘Let’s get him a Jeep Wrangler’,” stated freshman Bennett Hibshman.
