Meet Layla

Meet Layla, an optimistic 16-year-old from McDonough, Georgia! This high school junior never misses an opportunity to spend time with her family or take on a new experience. She loves watching basketball and going fishing with her family.

In 2019, Layla’s life was forever altered by a sudden, heartbreaking accident. A gunshot wound to her spine led to an emergency airlift to the hospital, leaving her family with an overwhelming mix of fear and helplessness. After the accident, Layla faced a tough road ahead with a month in the hospital followed by three months in a rehabilitation center.

With this new life, she went from being a typical high school student to facing the challenges of adapting to a new way of life in a wheelchair. One of the biggest challenges she faced was no longer being able to play on the basketball team that she loved so dearly. Despite all of the hurdles she has faced, Layla’s attitude of adapting and overcoming continues to shine.

Layla’s ultimate sports dream is to have a VIP experience at a Golden State Warriors game. She looks up to Steph Curry’s leadership on and off the court, and dreams of watching him play live. We can’t wait to make this Dream possible for one incredible teen!

A special thank you to Sami London, who raised money for Layla’s Dream Experience through her Mitzvah Project!

Layla's Dream

Layla’s Dream experience kicked off in the most luxurious way possible! The excitement began with a limo ride to the airport, setting the tone for what would be an unforgettable adventure. Once at the airport, Layla boarded a first-class flight, complete with a special, heartfelt welcome from Delta that made her feel like a true VIP. After landing in San Francisco, the fun didn’t stop. Layla was treated to a delicious spread of burgers from In-N-Out followed by a leisurely stroll along the picturesque San Francisco wharf, where the beauty of the city was in full view. It was the perfect introduction to an adventure that was already beyond her wildest dreams!

A heartfelt thank you to the Wipe Out Bar and Grill and the Fairmont San Francisco who helped bring this extraordinary experience to life. You made Layla’s dream day even more special.

The second day of Layla’s Dream took things to another level! It all started with a thrilling (and chilly) fishing trip with Fish Emeryville. The crew enjoyed the fresh air and the excitement of casting lines into the water, while Layla even found time to sneak in a quick nap in between fishing attempts. As if the day wasn’t already magical enough, the group was treated to a stunning rainbow sighting, adding a touch of natural wonder to an already incredible adventure. Later, the excitement continued with a crab feast to remember, where Layla and the crew feasted on some of the freshest, most delicious seafood around at The Crabhouse 39. To top it all off, Layla went on a shopping spree, picking out some stylish new kicks that will surely be a keepsake from this unforgettable day.

The final day of Layla’s Dream was pure magic from start to finish. It began with an immersive VR experience at Sandbox VR that took Layla to new worlds, filled with wonder and surprises. As if that wasn’t enough, there were sweet treats to enjoy while exploring these virtual realms. After that, Layla and her Dream Team set out to discover the beauty of San Francisco, taking in the iconic sights that make the city so famous.

The grand finale of the day was nothing short of extraordinary. Layla had the incredible honor of being recognized as an honorary captain at the Chase Center, where she was featured on the Jumbotron — a moment she’ll never forget. But the real icing on the cake came when she had the chance to meet and share unforgettable moments with the Golden State Warriors legends like Steph Curry. Dreams truly do come true!

Layla’s Dream Experience will be one she, and we, hold close to her heart forever.

Thank you to the Shepherd Center for referring Layla to Dream On 3!

Dream Snapshots

Thank you to Dream Granter Sponsor, Sami London!