Our Story
Peri was a thirteen year old middle schooler, one week from graduating from 8th Grade and spending the summer doing what she loved most—playing tennis and volleyball.
She was often seen on the tennis courts and her USTA Junior Player rankings matched her love of the game. She proudly displayed her trophies and awards throughout her room. The sport of volleyball also held a special place in Peri's heart. She loved playing as a member of the Rider Volleyball Club and was excited about the summer workouts and improving her jump serve.
Peri, which means "fairy" in Turkish, was truly magical and exemplified the meaning of her name in many ways. She was lighthearted, carefree, and her glowing personality could light up a room. She dreamed about sunshine, college, becoming a YouTube sensation, and having a career as an interior designer. She passionately enjoyed listening to 5 Seconds of Summer and One Direction. She loved her family’s annual reunions at Disney World and tubing behind the boat in Florida. She experienced this world to the fullest, and she will forever and always be remembered by her contagious laugh.
May 14th , 2016 was a beautiful, sunshine-filled day, and Peri and her sister were playing outside. The two were enjoying the sunshine and each other’s company when tragedy struck. In response to her tragic and untimely death, A Box Full of Sunshine—a non-profit organization—was founded by her big sister, Eren, in hopes of providing grieving families like her own with a bit of joy and happiness amidst immense pain and loss. Thus, Peri’s unforgettable legacy is able to live on through each and every life this organization touches.
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