San Francisco 49ers defensive back Don Jones helped to make the memory of a lifetime in his hometown of Town Creek, Ala. The 27-year-old escorted Lindsey Preston, an 18-year-old with Down syndrome, to prom on Friday night.
Jones told WBRC-TV that it was a “blessing” to go to prom with Preston. He posted pictures on Instagram recapturing the night.
“I had a great time with my beautiful prom date Lindsey at the Lawrence County LCDC prom. It was really an honor being around so many loving faces. I’ll remember this for the rest of my life,” Jones said.
The idea for Jones to take Preston to her prom started after her mother, Kristi Martin, brought up the idea to him last year. Jones is a family friend and his mother taught Preston in elementary school.
“Lindsey always stayed in contact with me and the family,” Jones told WLBT-TV. “Her mother asked me to go to prom with her last year so I told her I would be more than glad to.”
Special Needs Prom 2018 Lindsey Preston Don Jones II #princess#nflplayer
Posted by Kristi Martin on Saturday, April 14, 2018
Jones brought out his best moves to the dance floor, dancing to classics like the “Cha-Cha Slide” and “Cupid Shuffle.”
“Anything I can do to make some kids smile, I would be more than willing to do,” Jones said. “I think the most fun was all of the guys, I showed the guys about five or six new dance moves.”
This is what it’s all about. Making somebody else day. She couldn’t have got a better date if she wanted to have a good time. I knew u was gone turn em up. Mad love homie
Posted by Kelsey Madden on Saturday, April 14, 2018
Away from the dance floor and on the field has been tough for Jones. Last season he tore his ACL in the final preseason game. But he says his knee is coming together and he should be ready for next season.
“I had knee surgery in September so I have been going to therapy at St. Vincent’s every day,” Jones said. “My knee is coming along real good. I think I have another month or two but I think I will be back to fully recovered soon.”
As he eyes another year on the field, Jones gives thanks to God for the opportunity to create some long-lasting memories off of it.
“It is definitely a blessing. God is good. All praise goes out to God.”
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