Shonda, 21 years old, OR | 33 DAYS WAITING

Wish submitted by:

Shonda's journey through the child welfare system started when she was very young. She was adopted at five and thought she had a forever home, but then her adoptive mom got very sick and couldn’t take care of her anymore. With no one else to help, Shonda went back into foster care. This was really hard for her, as it brought back old feelings and new worries. Even with these difficulties, Shonda held onto the happy memories of love and stability. She moved through group homes and different placements, but she found comfort in her creativity. Singing made her feel calm, and writing became her escape. She loves to fill her journal with poetry, short stories, and songs that express her feelings, especially when she finds it hard to talk about them. Writing helps her make sense of the chaos around her and creates a safe space where she feels understood. For her, it’s not just a hobby; it’s a way to share her voice and dream of a future where she can inspire others with her story.

Shonda wishes for a light-up Hello Kitty mirror to brighten up her daily routine. Hello Kitty has always been a source of comfort and happiness in her life. Growing up, she moved often and rarely had the chance to settle into one place. Many of her belongings were lost along the way, either left behind during moves or stolen from her, and as a result, she has never truly had a room that felt like her own. This mirror would be an opportunity to finally create a space that feels stable, personal, and reflective of who she is. She wants a room that feels welcoming and joyful, a place where she can slow down and feel at ease. The built-in lights would also support her daily routines, allowing her to see herself clearly while doing her makeup and caring for her skin. These moments of self-care are important to her, helping her build confidence and feel more grounded.