Dewayne, 16 years old, LA |

Wish submitted by:

Dewayne is currently in foster care after enduring severe abuse. This painful experience has deeply affected him, but it has also shown how strong and determined he truly is. Despite everything he has been through, he enjoys activities that allow him to relax and feel like a normal kid again, especially spending time listening to music, gaming, and being around people who make him feel safe. He is slowly rebuilding trust and learning what it feels like to be cared for without fear. Dewayne dreams of growing up to have a successful future where he can help others who have experienced pain like his. He wants to turn his past into motivation, proving that trauma does not define who he is or what he will become.

Dewayne wishes for an iPad because it has always been something he depended on for comfort, learning, and staying calm, especially being mildly autistic. He was placed in foster care for his safety and was unable to bring any of his belongings with him. Losing his iPad meant losing one of the few tools that helped him regulate his emotions and feel in control. Having an iPad again would give him a sense of familiarity, security, and stability during such a difficult and unpredictable time. It would also help him stay engaged, communicate better, and continue to grow emotionally and socially. This gift would truly help him begin to heal and rebuild some of what was taken from him.