A mom preparing to present on a video conference call collapsed to the floor in shock when she was surprised by her military son entering the room after returning home.
Tashia Jones, 46, from Mount Holly, North Carolina, experienced many changes this year – her son Chris left for training with the U.S. Air Force in March, an eight-year relationship ended, and she lost her job.
It was her first time being an empty-nester, and Tashia said not having Chris around made things even harder, as she wasn’t expecting him home until 2026, as after basic training he was based in San Diego.
But Chris, 20, and his sister, Erica, had been working on a secret mission behind the scenes.
When he returned to North Carolina on November 13, Erica made sure her mom was home, knowing her schedule for her North Carolina Central University Alumni Chapter meeting.
With the meeting set to take place and Tashia waiting to present – and sorting her laundry while off camera – Chris walked into his mom’s bedroom.
As soon as the 46-year-old saw her son, she let out a huge scream, fell back on her bed, and then slid down onto the floor in shock.
Giving his mom a few seconds to compose herself, Chris then helped a stunned Tashia to her feet and gave her an emotional hug.
Tashia said: “This surprise was more than just a homecoming — it was a burst of hope and joy when I really needed it.
“It reminded me even in tough times, there’s always a reason to stay hopeful.
“Because of his flight delays, the surprise ended up happening during my meeting instead of before it, and I’m honestly glad it didn’t happen in public because I hate surprises and would’ve embarrassed myself even more.
“I was completely clueless the entire time, waiting for my turn to present my report during the meeting.
“When Chris walked into the room, I turned around and instantly fell to the floor in pure shock.
“My body reacted before my mind could process it.
“He rushed over to help me up while I was trying to understand if he was really standing there.”
