Armando, 16 years old, NJ

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Armando is a quiet and introspective young person who enjoys learning to play the piano at school, eating good food, and playing video games with his three online friends. He is very mindful about what he eats, often choosing fresh fruits and colorful vegetables when they are available on the school menu. He loves to cook and dreams of a future career in the culinary arts. His favorite meals are Latin dishes, and he especially treasures Puerto Rican coffee, which he gets to enjoy as a special treat during visits with his dad. Armando’s favorite colors are blue and red—blue because it feels calming and red because it feels invigorating—and he would love to have a bedroom painted in those colors. He also enjoys experimenting with his hair and is proud of the blue highlights he currently has. After experiencing abuse and neglect while in his mother’s care, he is now participating in therapy and positive family therapy sessions with his father, with the hope of reunification. Although transportation was previously a barrier, Armando has made every effort to participate in the LGBTQ+ club at school, where he feels supported and included. While he is naturally quiet and not always eager to speak up, he expressed to his social worker and CASA how important it was for him to attend and arrangements were made to ensure he could get there. Deep down, Armando has a big heart for those who struggle, a passion for helping others, and a genuine desire to be loved.

Armando recently faced a significant health challenge when he was diagnosed with ten cavities. Determined to turn things around, he reflects on his childhood, where constant moves and housing difficulties made it hard to establish consistent routines, including daily dental care. Now, under the guidance of a dentist, he is eager to take charge of his health and prevent any future issues. A key part of his new approach involves adopting an effective brushing routine. An electric toothbrush equipped with a timer would be the perfect solution for Armando. It would not only help him brush twice a day but also ensure he dedicates the right amount of time to his oral hygiene. By using this small yet powerful tool, Armando would boost his confidence in taking care of his smile. With the right support, he is ready to create healthy habits that will last a lifetime.