Fernando, 16 years old, WA | 21 DAYS WAITING

Wish submitted by:

Fernando is living in a kinship placement with his older brother after his father experienced a relapse. This unexpected change has brought uncertainty to Fernando's life, and adjusting to a new home and school hasn't been easy. Fernando has been having a hard time settling into his new school and finding his place among unfamiliar faces. While he is grateful to have his older brother in his life, he still misses the comfort and familiarity of how things used to be. Fernando loves being outside, especially riding his bike! Riding his bike lets him take his mind off what's been weighing on him and simply enjoy being a kid. As Fernando continues adjusting to his new circumstances, opportunities to enjoy his interests, feel happy, and create new memories can make a meaningful difference.

Fernando’s favorite place to be is outside, pedaling his bike through the neighborhood and exploring wherever the day takes him. As rainy fall weather rolls in, he hopes for a pair of Timberland boots that can keep up with him and keep his feet warm and dry. This year has brought a lot of change, from moving in with his older brother to starting at a new school, and he finds joy and a break from it all outdoors. His own boots would help him feel steady and confident as he settles into his new surroundings, and they would remind him he is cared for even when life feels uncertain.