Mom was deeply emotional after her 3-year-old son lost his foot in a lawn mower accident, but he reassured her that everything would be okay.

After a lawnmower accident resulted in the amputation of his left foot, Keirsten Marsico’s little son Joey consoled her by telling her that everything will be alright.

“I was crying naturally when he came out of surgery that night, and he just held my head and said, ‘Mommy, what’s wrong?’” Marsico told PEOPLE his story. “I told him, buddy, I’m really sad.”

Joey, who was only a few weeks away from turning four, was watching his grandfather Mark DeLuca mow the lawn outside their Whitehall, New York, home on Thursday, May 9, when he made a snap decision that put him in danger.

Keirsten talked about her “active little boy,” the youngest of her two children, saying that “he really loves tractors and enjoys helping with the lawn.” “He approached my dad, who was riding the lawnmower, from behind. My dad threw the mower in reverse before my mom could get to him, and everything happened all at once,” she remembered. “The events that led to what happened were a series of events.”

“It’s been tough on all of us, especially my parents who feel absolutely awful,” Keirsten continues. Specifically, my dad is distraught.

The family believes that Mark DeLuca’s quick use of a tourniquet probably saved Joey’s life. After being transported to Boston Children’s Hospital, Joey had many foot procedures before it was decided to amputate.

Despite the difficulties in his recuperation, Joey’s maturity and upbeat attitude have astounded his family and friends, as well as his caregivers and physicians.

“What a strong little guy,” Keirsten says. At times, conversing with him is like to conversing with a teenager. He has excellent adjustment.

Joey’s father, Joseph, remarks, “He’s always been that way—very understanding, perceptive of people’s emotions, and adept at coping with situations.” Joseph is reflecting on his son’s exceptional maturity. In addition, he speaks a lot and has a vocabulary that is above average for his age.

The Marsicos, along with their autistic 6-year-old daughter Gianna, settled into a new routine during Joey’s almost month-long hospital stay.

“We tried to maintain a sense of normalcy for my daughter because she attends school,” Keirsten says. “My spouse and I decided that one of us should stay at home with her because she needs routine.”

Joseph stayed stubbornly by Joey’s side, while Keirsten stayed at home. “He’s still by Joey’s side,” Keirsten underlines.

Keirsten reflects on a touching incident by saying, “The other day, as I was leaving Joey, I was crying, and he consoled me again.” I told him it was okay and that I didn’t have to be sad as he wiped away my tears. “I know, but I don’t like leaving you,” I said to him.

The Marsicos take comfort in the knowledge that Joey’s accident was a terrible exception and in their Catholic faith.

“My worst fear is that people will hear this story and think, ‘Why weren’t they watching him?’ or ‘How could they let this happen?’” admits Keirsten, expressing her deepest concern. As his mother, I’ve struggled with it.

She does, however, take solace in her faith, thinking that Joey’s experiences have a greater meaning. “I have to constantly tell myself that everything is happening for a reason. Even if we can’t see it now, God has a plan for him, Keirsten says.

She says, “I would tell someone else it’s an accident if they were in our shoes.” “Accidents happen, and focusing on ‘why’ won’t help—it will only make you feel bad about yourself.”

Keirsten highlights how resilient their family has been in the face of hardship. “We must change and get over what is going on. Our priorities are helping Joey and continuing to be a solid family unit.

After being away from home for almost a month following the accident, Joey was released from the hospital on June 5. Earlier last week, he had his fourth birthday celebration.

His parents are hopeful that he will heal and that he will soon get a prosthetic fitted. They are in awe of Joey’s capacity to communicate his emotions and offer consolation to others during this trying time.

Warmly, Joseph says, “He’s always been such a special little boy.”

What is that girl wondering about

Have you ever walked past someone and suddenly fixated on their outfit, thinking, I need that shirt!? That’s exactly what’s happening in this viral moment. A young woman glances at another person’s outfit, her expression shifting from curiosity to quiet contemplation. But what’s really going on in her mind? The answer is simple—she admires the shirt but feels too embarrassed to ask where to buy it.

The Fashion Envy Phenomenon

Fashion envy is real. You see someone effortlessly rocking an outfit, and suddenly, you want to know every detail—where they got it, how much it cost, and if it comes in other colors. It’s not just about clothing; it’s about the feeling it creates.

That girl in the viral image isn’t judging. She’s admiring. She’s caught in the internal struggle of admiration versus hesitation. Should she ask about the shirt? Will it seem awkward? We’ve all been there.

Why Do We Hesitate to Ask About Fashion?

There are plenty of reasons why people hesitate to compliment or inquire about someone’s outfit:

• Fear of Awkwardness: Some worry they’ll sound intrusive or odd.
• Social Anxiety: Speaking up to a stranger can feel intimidating.
• Fear of Judgment: People overthink how their curiosity might be perceived.
• Personal Pride: Some want to find the piece themselves, believing it’s a fashion “challenge.”

But guess what? Most people love sharing where they got their clothes—especially if it’s a trendy or unique find.

How to Ask Someone About Their Outfit Without Feeling Awkward

If you’ve ever hesitated to ask someone where they got their outfit, here’s how to do it confidently:

1. Lead with a Compliment

Instead of a plain Where did you get that?, start with I love your shirt! A compliment softens the approach and makes it feel natural.

2. Keep It Short and Sweet

You don’t need an elaborate explanation—just ask casually:

• That top is amazing! Mind if I ask where you got it?
• I love your style! Is that from a local shop or online?

3. Choose the Right Moment

If they’re in a hurry or distracted, they might not respond well. Catch them in a relaxed setting, like waiting in line or casually browsing.

4. Use Social Media as a Backup

If asking in person feels too much, look up similar styles online. Instagram and Pinterest are goldmines for finding outfit inspiration and even direct links to the exact pieces.

The Power of Fashion Influence

What we wear speaks volumes about who we are. Seeing someone wear a specific outfit can trigger inspiration, nostalgia, or even a shift in personal style.

This is why fashion trends spread so quickly. One influencer posts a unique piece, and suddenly, it’s a global trend. That girl in the image? She’s not just staring—she’s processing, mentally bookmarking the style for her next shopping trip.

When Admiration Turns Into Fashion Copying

Liking someone’s outfit is one thing, but copying it exactly? That’s where personal style comes in. Here’s how to get inspired without losing originality:

• Find Similar Styles: If you love a specific design, look for variations that fit your personality.
• Mix and Match: Instead of copying the whole look, incorporate elements into your existing wardrobe.
• Add a Personal Touch: Accessories, layering, and color choices make an outfit your own.

Fashion isn’t just about wearing clothes; it’s about expressing yourself. Taking inspiration is great—just make it your own.

Overcoming the Fear of Asking

If you love something, ask about it. Most people don’t mind sharing, and many are flattered that someone admires their style.

The girl in the image might never ask, and that’s okay. But next time you see someone wearing your dream outfit, don’t hesitate—speak up, compliment them, and get the details.

You never know, you might just make their day in the process.