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SALT LAKE CITY — At the Millennium Dance Complex in Salt Lake City, music, laughing and of course dancing tell a story.
On Wednesday, 13-year-old Stoneay was just one of the guys, but her story is not one easily told. For her, dancing isn't just about fun, it's an escape.
"It kind of just gets my feelings out," Stoneay said. "When I'm frustrated I go to my room and dance or go outside and dance."
She's not used to dancing for anyone but herself.
"I'm really nervous," she said.
She's willing to step outside her comfort zone if it means finding a family; something most kids her age take for granted. Stoneay lives in foster care.
"I haven't stayed in one family for a long time," she said.
Her life has been one of instability.
"My dad abandoned me," she remembered. "He left and my mom was the only one with three children, but my biggest sister ending up taking care of us."
Then there was a chance for a new beginning. At 3 years old, a family adopted Stoneay.
"They adopt me and then they say I was a troublemaker, so they gave me up," she said.
At 9 years old, she re-entered the foster care system, where she's remained ever since. She admits that event has only fueled her feelings of abandonment.
"I want to be happy," she said. "I really do want to be happy. I don't want to be in this lonely stage forever."
Despite all she's been through she still believes her story is not finished yet and her song is not over.
"I know there is someone out there for me," she said. "I can feel it in my heart."
To learn more about Stoneay or the many other children living in the Utah Foster Care System, contact The Adoption Exchange of Utah.
