Sandra, 16 years old, CA

Wish submitted by:

Sandra recently found herself in the foster care system alongside her six siblings after their mother could no longer care for them. Life hasn’t been easy for her; she’s faced significant trauma stemming from neglect and abuse. This has taken a toll on her mental health, leading her to grapple with dark thoughts at times. Despite these heavy challenges, Sandra is incredibly committed to her recovery, actively seeking out hope and healing. One of the most beautiful things about Sandra is her ability to smile and share laughter with her siblings. Their bond is a source of joy and strength for her. No matter what they’ve gone through, the love she has for them shines through. Remarkably, Sandra has not only managed to get through these tough experiences but also excels as a student. She dreams of becoming a doctor or a lawyer, driven by a desire to create a brighter future for herself and her family. Her resilience is truly inspiring, showing that even in the darkest moments, hope can find a way to flourish.

Sandra has just turned 16 and is excited to celebrate her birthday with a sweet 16 photoshoot, something she's never done before. Having faced numerous challenges in her life, she has often been made to feel unworthy and has never received kind words from those around her. Granting her wish for this special celebration would allow her to complete her look for the photoshoot and, most importantly, give her the chance to finally feel beautiful and appreciated.