Months after Tony Marrero survived the Pulse Nightclub mass shooting in Orlando, Fla., he appeared on The Ellen DeGeneres Show to discuss his recovery following the attack. He also had the chance to meet his musical idol.
Marrero, who was shot four times by gunman Omar Mateen, told Ellen DeGeneres on Thursday’s show that the song that kept him motivated during his months of recuperation was Katy Perry‘s Rise. He noted the song’s lyrics had a particularly profound affect on him.
“The lyrics to that song are so powerful,” Marrero said. “Every word in that song is just powerful. So I embraced it…”
The 58-year-old talk show host then asked the Orlando resident whether he had had the chance to meet the chart-topping pop star.
“Have you met Katy yet? Would you like to meet her?”
WATCH: Katy Perry returns with new inspirational anthem, Rise
Before Marrero had the chance to respond, DeGeneres waved Perry onto stage.
Tears ensued, and Marrero and Perry shared a long embrace.
“I’m shaking right now,” Perry said. “We’re both electrified by each other, and so inspired.”
Marrero went on to thank Perry for serving as his inspiration while he was recovering from his injuries.
“I just want to say thank you for everything you do,” Marrero said tears. “Your lyrics to that song helped me from the day I was in the hospital all the way to now. Thank you.”
Perry responded: “Life isn’t easy and you need little reliefs, through songs possibly… I’m happy to be a joy, I’m happy to be a light, I’m happy I could be there in my own little way to help you.”
She then surprised Marrero by offering to pay for his first year of film school.
Check out the heart-warming moment for yourself below.
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