Mom Praised For Giving Daughter Going Off To College A Basket Of Gifts To Open After They ‘Say Goodbye’ & Other Moments

Jun 09, 2023

In a heartfelt gesture that has taken the internet by storm, an Alabama mother's graduation gift to her daughter, who will be off to college in the fall, has captured the hearts of millions worldwide. 

Erin Percy, known as @erinpercy60 on TikTok, uploaded a video on May 22, 2023, showcasing a collection of carefully wrapped presents, each accompanied by a handwritten note. The moving tribute has left viewers in tears and inspired countless others. 

The short clip begins with Erin unveiling a basket filled with presents for her 18-year-old daughter, Abby Rose Percy, who is preparing to embark on her college journey. Set to the poignant score of Pixar's beloved film "Up," the footage revealed a series of gifts, each one labeled with a note tailored to specific moments and needs in Abby's life.

The initial note read, "Open me when it's cold outside," setting the tone for the emotionally charged surprises. Other small presents were next, urging Abby to open them when she catches a cold, needs a break, lacks time for laundry, or requires an extra boost. The thoughtful assortment of gifts continued, leading to the final present marked with the bittersweet message, "Open me when we say goodbye."

While some parents spend lavishly on a car or computer, many, like Erin, choose simpler but no less heartfelt presents to mark special occasions. Usually, the graduates value gifts like jewelry, typically inscribed with the date of their graduation, books, money or stock certificates, luggage, a camera, or graduation rings in the years to come. Flowers are another nice option; it's customary to give the graduate a bouquet of flowers after the graduation ceremony or a corsage or boutonnière before it. 

Speaking to Today, Erin shared the inspiration behind the gifts. She revealed that her daughter would soon be leaving their Alabama hometown to attend the College of Charleston in South Carolina. Erin explained that she wanted to provide Abby with thoughtful tokens for the moments she will experience without her mother's physical presence.

“I wanted to give her a few things for those important moments that I'm going to miss,” the mother told Today. “We’re really, really close."

Their connection has been deepened by the challenges they have faced together, particularly Erin's battle with stage 3 breast cancer. Abby stood by her mother's side during her treatment, and Erin acknowledges the lingering fears she has as a survivor. She admitted that her concern for not being there for her daughter subconsciously influenced the creation of the gifts.

Since its posting, the video has garnered almost seven million views, with an outpouring of support and admiration from people on social media. Commenters expressed their desire to see the contents of the presents, while others were moved to tears by the sentiment behind each one. 

The gift labeled "Open me when we say goodbye" contained a necklace symbolizing their cherished connection and the song "You Are My Sunshine," which Erin used to sing to Abby when she was young. Other gifts included a Starbucks gift card and an Insomnia Cookies gift card for moments when Abby needs a pick-me-up, as well as a practical package of a week's worth of socks and underwear to help with laundry during busy times.

The video struck a universal chord, resonating with parents and children alike who appreciated the profound bond between family members. Erin also expressed her excitement for Abby's future, highlighting her desire for her daughter to have a fulfilling college experience after a difficult high school journey overshadowed by the lockdowns. 

The viral video has touched the hearts of millions, spreading a message of love, support and resilience. What do you think of Erin’s gesture for her daughter? Do you have a similar experience or know someone who could relate? Tell them about this story!