At just 13 years old, Sutton Seigel isn't just choosing clothes; she's creating them with a purpose. Diagnosed with a gastrointestinal disorder, this Surprise, Arizona teenager turned to Make-A-Wish Arizona for something beyond the typical request – she wished to design a custom shirt, collaborating with local apparel brand State Forty Eight. And she's doing it for charity – every dollar earned from her shirt sales benefits the Phoenix Children’s Inflammatory Bowel Disease Program, where she also receives treatment.
True in heart and intent, Seigel's design isn't just a random assortment of images; it's a collage of her personal favorites. Sunflowers, the Colorado River, fighter jets from the famed 'Top Gun', and a significant symbol of her condition grace the design in a distinct State Forty Eight logo fashion. The creative process was a thoughtful journey, as Seigel herself explained, "It probably took me like a week to figure out what design I really wanted," a sentiment she shared with the AZ family. She meticulously chose her themes along with just the right colors to represent her vision.
Impressed by her altruistic approach, Mike Spangenberg, CEO of State Forty Eight, expressed his admiration for the young designer's choice to give back. "She could have chose anything in the world, and she chose to work with State Forty Eight to create this shirt, beautiful shirt that gives back," Spangenberg stated in a segment covered by ABC15. "It just says so much about her and her family, I’m just so thankful for the whole process."
Sutton's shirts are a beacon of creativity and hope, available for purchase through various outlets, including State Forty Eight's storefront and website, as well as the gift shop at Phoenix Children’s Hospital. Supporters can embrace Seigel's heartfelt design and contribute to a meaningful cause as part of Make-A-Wish Arizona's Summer of Wishes campaign. To join the effort and help those enduring similar medical battles, individuals can visit the organization’s website and make a difference one shirt at a time.
