For Christmas this year, 8-year-old Safyre Terry had one wish, to fill her Christmas tree with Christmas cards. It was a wish her Aunt did not think was possible to fulfill.
2 years ago, Safyre lost her whole family to a house fire caused by arson in her upstate New York home. Since then she has endured 20 surgeries and lives with her Aunt Liz Terry-Dolder who runs a facebook page to share Safyre’s progress and recovery with the world.
“My response was ‘I don’t think it’s gonna get filled up but I am sure we will get a few more cards” – Liz Terry Dolder (Safyre’s aunt)
But 2 weeks ago, when a 2-tonne postal truck turned up to their front door, it seemed Safyre’s wish had very much come true. 18,000 cards, gifts and letters were unloaded, all sent by followers of Safyre’s facebook page who had been moved by the post. Days later, another 185,000 cards and 4,000 packages were delivered. In total, Safyre has received over 300,000 pieces of mail this month.
The letters and gifts have come from all over the world. Supporters in Brazil, Canada and Malaysia have sent touching words to the young burn survivor, some even younger than Safyre. One gift included a note that said:
“I am five years old. I live in Hong Kong. This is my favorite teddy bear. Let’s be friends.” – Adrian, Hong Kong.
The overwhelming kindness and support does not end there. Earlier in the year, a crowdfunding campaign was launched through YouCaring with hopes to raise $15,000 for the young survivor. But since Safyre’s story and Christmas campaign has gone viral, the donations have reached a breathtaking $331,000.
“She believed, and all of you are making it happen” – Liz Terry-Dolder.
Follow Safyre’s progress on her facebook page
View and contribute to the Crowdfunding campaign.