A 21st birthday, and the legal access to beer that comes with it, is a major milestone for so many young people. This joyful moment is often shared with friends and family, but it was bittersweet for Matt Goodman of Massachusetts. His father had passed away 6 years earlier, but had planned a special gift for Matt’s big day.
Matt’s father was losing his battle with cancer and knew he wouldn’t survive long enough to buy his son’s first beer in person, so he made a secret plan to do so in spirit. Matt’s older sister, Casey, revealed that their father had entrusted her with a special $10 bill to be used specifically for this occasion. He wanted Matt to know that even in death, his dad would always be there for him.
almost 6 years ago before my dad passed he gave my sister this 10$ bill to give to me on my 21st birthday so he could buy me my first beer, cheers pops havin this one for you! pic.twitter.com/oaIulpEJTc
— Matt Goodman (@mattg12699) December 6, 2020
Casey gave Matt the symbolic bill on his 21st birthday, and Matt knew exactly what to do. He bought the tallest glass he could find of his dad’s favorite beer, Bud Light, knowing that’s what his dad would have bought for him.
Matt shared the story on Twitter where it quickly went viral.
When Budweiser learned about this heartwarming story, they responded in kind saying they would raise one to Matt’s dad and that his next beer would be on them. Matt couldn’t believe it when several cases of beer were delivered to his door.
Thanks @budweiserusa i think i got my next few beers taken care of!!! pic.twitter.com/w0Txl413sZ
— Matt Goodman (@mattg12699) December 8, 2020
Many others followed suit offering to buy a beer in Matt’s dad’s honor. Matt was so touched by the gesture that he asked people to instead donate to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.
Like and share this story if you remember your first beer and were lucky enough to share it with someone special.