Cyrena and Sarah

On survivor's guilt and late night cookie dough

Through her healing process, Cyrena has discovered a safe space to release her stress through gymnastics. She is grateful for supporters like her mother, who been there to remind her to express her emotions, rather than hide them.
 A perfect day for Sarah is sleeping in and going to target to tj maxx with her friends, then going to bed early.

  • Cyrena, 17

    Cyrena’s guilty pleasure is eating tons of cookie dough in the middle of the night.

    She is afraid of not leaving her mark on the world.

    She wants people to know that she is a part of a huge community of kind and loving people that are so much more than what happened to them.

    Through her healing process, she has discovered a safe space to release her stress through gymnastics. She is grateful for supporters like her mother, who been there to remind her to express her emotions, rather than hide them.

  • Sarah, 17

    Sarah wants people to acknowledge how every new school shooting affects existing survivors.

    She is afraid of not bringing change to gun violence.

    Through her healing process, she has struggled with guilt around being sick at home that day. Her mom has been one of her biggest supporters.

    To other survivors, she says: It’s okay to not be okay. You can’t rush your healing process. It’s important to go through the steps of therapy, talking to people, not holding it in.

We are more than Sandy Hook. We are human beings and want to live our lives to the fullest.

-Cyrena

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To other survivors, Cyrena says:

“No matter who brushes you off, your emotions are valid.

It may take a long time, but remember that people are there for you, whether it is family, friends, or teachers.”

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To the world, Sarah says:

“Be kind.”

 “Time heals all” isn’t necessarily true. I still think about it every day. And that’s okay.

-Sarah

What Does the Future Hold?

 Cyrena's Hope for Sarah: 
I hope to see you overcome many hurdles and understand that your voice is powerful and you'll be the change we need to see. You'll inspire others and I hope you make your mark on the world.

Sarah's hope for Cyrena:
In 2032. I hope you are achieving your dreams and that you overcome any obstacles. I hope you're happy and healthy and you can work through anything that may be troubling you.

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