When Sami was 17, she, alongside our mom, welcomed me into their home. Her support has been immense, and I can’t express enough how grateful I am for everything she’s done for me. I truly cherish her and hold her dear to my heart, the same as a mother.

On January 2nd, 2012, I was born. My biological mother struggled with drug addiction before I was born, leading the State to declare that she was unable to keep me, but thankfully my biological paternal aunt and her daughter, my soon-to-be legal sister worked to take me in, which wasn’t as easy as you may think.

For what felt like an eternity, they battled to gain legal custody of me. My biological mother was originally supportive of them taking me in but her stance shifted and she began to say that they didn’t deserve me. Eventually, they did get legal custody of me after a period of time and after taking me into their care, but it was not easy at all and I’m thankful for them going through all that they went through to get me.

For 12 Years Sami has showered me with love through everything, when I did wrong she always forgave me and she has devoted so much of her life, time, patience, and resources to raising me. During times when I made mistakes, and also when she was going through a lot, she always made me a priority in her life and she always made sure I felt loved and cared for.

Sami is the nicest person you could ever meet, she is so sweet and so kind towards everybody. She finds a lot of joy in educating people and sharing her knowledge with others, you would be lucky to meet her and you would enjoy her company.

Sami finds immense joy in various activities, such as reading, continual learning, and learning about African culture and history. One of her dreams is to soon go on a journey to Africa one day as well as to complete Hajj.

Sami has been an incredible source of support and kindness, not just for me but for countless other people as well. She has both remarkable intelligence and an unmatched level of warmth and kindness. Sami, I just simply want to express my love and appreciation for you, and though sometimes it might seem like I don’t appreciate you, I want you to always remember that I do and that you are cherished and you will always be FOREVER be in my heart. Love, Zak