“I CAN DO IT”
by Sharon Rondeau
(Dec. 14, 2015) — As reported on social media and various television stations, an eight-year-old girl severely burned in a fire in May 2013 has asked for only one gift this Christmas: enough cards to fill a card stand in her home.
Safyre Terry was five when a house fire, suspected as arson, killed her father, two brothers and sister on May 2, 2013. Safyre was the oldest child and the only survivor, spending ten months in the hospital.
Videos and photos of Safyre and those lost in the fire are posted on a Facebook page titled “Safyre Schenectady’s Super Survivor.”
A link from the Facebook page to a YouCaring fundraising page indicates that as of Monday morning, a goal of $15,000 to assist Safyre with future operations and the family, as her uncle is reported to have recently lost his job, has been surpassed exponentially, with more than $326,000 raised.
This writer recalls that when the story was broadcast in her area late last week, approximately $100,000 had been raised.
Safyre enjoys singing, wearing princess costumes, and has participated in a talent show at her school singing “Eye of the Tiger.”
“You’re gonna hear me roar,” the song ends.
With her new prosthetic, Safyre is learning to roller-skate.
“Who can do it, Safyre?” a voice constantly asks her as she tries new feats, to which Safyre responds, “I can do it.”
Safyre has now received thousands of cards from all over the world, for which she is shown in a video expressing thanks.
Christmas cards can be sent to:
Safyre
P.O. Box 6126
Schenectady NY 12306
Motorcyclists and a correctional system children’s fund have assisted Safyre in her recovery.