Staring, whispering, and shunning. These actions can all cause psychological distress to survivors of burn injuries. Coping with the harshness of the world can be tough on them, especially for insecure adolescent girls.
Fortunately, Angel Faces, a California-based nonprofit, is here to help. It claims to help young survivors “break out of their cocoon trauma.” The organization provides retreats and support for disfigured females.
The seven-day retreats in New Hampshire are separated into Level 1 and Level 2. Level 1 is for adolescent girls, ages 12-18. Whereas, the latter is for young women, ages 19-29.
Through the program, the burn victims can gain the courage to find hope again. The focus of Angel Faces is to heal them emotionally and psychologically. It involves group counseling, role-playing, art therapy, and workshops. Furthermore, it also teaches coping and social skills. Not only that but there are also make-up lessons to help enhance one’s self-esteem.
What’s more is some of the services are offered by volunteers and licensed therapists. An example is Dr. Melanie Palm, a board-certified dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon. According to the San Diego Tribune, she wanted to be more involved with Angels Face after being invited to a retreat. Hence, she did in 2011. She was first a donor and volunteer before becoming a speaker at the retreat’s mini-workshops. Now, she is a board member.
“One of my strengths as a board member is trying to bring awareness to the organization,” Palm told the San Diego Union Tribune. “This organization deserves national recognition and financial support.”
Angel Faces, which does not receive government funding, currently operates on donations. Additionally, Founder Lesia Cartelli, created the national non-profit because of her own burn experience. At the age of nine, she endured a serious burn injury. It inspired her to teach other survivors how to successfully handle life’s challenges with optimism.
However, the program only accepts fewer than two-dozen girls annually. According to DailyMail.co.uk, teens around the country send in applications. In the past, people from Mexico and England signed up.
“The girls of Angel Faces are incredible,” Palm said. “Many of the girls have accomplished remarkable goals despite daily, repeated, and seemingly insurmountable obstacles.”
