Hot Cocoa and a Chance to Help the Special Children at Sammy's House

Our hot cocoa fundraiser is going in the mail this week! This is a good opportunity to give to Sammy's House and receive a tasty winter treat in return. Major thanks to Vanessa Velazquez, who generously donated her time and talent to design the cute holiday-themed brochure for this fundraiser.

In each fundraising campaign, we try to include a personal story from one of the families who have been helped and supported by Sammy's House. Here's the story from this year's fundraiser, from the grandmother of one of the children in our care.

Maliyah's Miracle

When my granddaughter, Maliyah, was three months old, her biological father hurt her. She was left with bleeding in her brain, six broken ribs, her right leg broken in three places, and a damaged eye. It was only after a seizure that the paramedics were called. Maliyah spent a month in the hospital. She was given a poor prognosis, one that would leave her wheelchair-bound and severely impaired for a lifetime. I was given custody of her and charged with the mission of putting my granddaughter back together.

Maliyah started Sammy’s House at five months old. Her medical and therapy needs were great. I fell in love with Sammy’s House the instant I walked in the door! With great attention to detail, Maliyah was cared for. The teachers were awesome. The journey was hard, but I was not alone in helping Maliyah find her way back. Maliyah is now two years old. She is walking, talking, climbing, and painting. Her favorite word is “color.” Eighty percent of her vision is back. Each and every day is a miracle!

On November 3, 2011, Maliyah’s adoption was finalized. It really is a miracle! Every morning when I leave her, she waves goodbye. I can go to work without worry, knowing that she is not only cared for, but truly loved. At Sammy’s House, every day is filled with hope, a hope that every child will be all that they can be. Together my new daughter and I ask for your help to keep Sammy’s House open. This holiday season, please find it in your heart to give.