According to the Council of Exceptional Children, millions of children in the United States have disabilities. Consequently, their brothers and sisters will share issues and experiences that are uniquely theirs throughout their lives.

Eleven year old Ariel Sweet was prompted to establish the Aliah Sweet Fragile Hearts Foundation in 2002 in memory of Aliah, her brother and best friend. Aliah had multiple disabilities and Ariel's happy little brother passed away at age 9.

The Aliah Sweet Fragile Hearts Foundation recognizes the life altering complexities that are unique to siblings of children with severe, multiple disabilities. We have great admiration and respect for the special bond and the infinite range of emotions shared by these children.

Granting wishes is how we honor and encourage siblings who selflessly assume roles as protectors, companions and friends.

• To support vulnerable siblings of children who have special needs

• To help motivate siblings to become productive citizens by providing outlets to express their own feelings and needs

• To provide opportunities for siblings to feel special by granting their individual and collective wishes

• To engender strong rewarding sibling relationships by encouraging these children to envision their own bright futures