Orphaned Teen Makes a 'Friend' at Oscars

Feb. 28, 2005 — -- Story note: Ashley Tang, whose story was featured on "Good Morning America" in Februrary, graduated from Apollo High School in Glendale, Ariz., on May 23, 2005, as her class valedictorian. She will attend the University of Arizona this fall. You can read Ashley's story below.

Last week, "Good Morning America" surprised 18-year-old Ashley Tang, who lost both her parents to cancer but still became her high school's valedictorian, with the assignment of a lifetime -- access to the Oscars red carpet as a special "GMA" correspondent.

But before hitting the red carpet, Ashley got the full hair, makeup and wardrobe treatment, and was surprised by a visit from her favorite actress, Jennifer Aniston.

A shocked Ashley embraced Aniston, who gave the teen a "guardian angel" beaded bracelet, with a small angel charm and diamond.

"You're such an inspiration, my dear," Aniston told Ashley. "The world needs to see more people like you."

Despite suffering great losses, Ashley has indeed been an inspiration to others. Her mother died of breast cancer when Ashley was 7, and her father succumbed to lung cancer with she was 15 and a freshman in high school.

Humble, spirited, self-confident and independent, Ashley has excelled in school despite the tragedies in her life. She spent three years living alone in her parents' Glendale, Ariz., home since her father's death, with her aunt and uncle living next door. Her sister, Tiffany, 23, and her older brother, Ryan, 27, live away from home.

In May, Ashley will be given the Apollo High School Achievement Above All Award, naming her Student of the Year, and will be the valedictorian of her class. She plans to attend University of Arizona in the fall and hopes to become a doctor.

Before hitting the red carpet to interview the stars with "GMA" correspondent Marysol Castro, Ashley chose a gold dress from Saks Fifth Avenue, received shoes from Stuart Weitzman and, befitting a princess, was crowned with a $100,000 Japanese antique tiara.

Ashley also had her makeup done by a top Chanel artist, and it was while she was getting her hair cut Jennifer Aniston-style that the star of Ashley's favorite TV show walked through the door.

After spending time with Aniston, Ashley said of the actress: "Even though she's going through a tough time, she took the time to come see me."

On the red carpet, Ashley had the opportunity to talk to celebrities such as Hilary Swank, Morgan Freeman and Oprah Winfrey. "They all looked more beautiful in person," said Ashley.

When Ashley delivers her valedictorian speech to her graduating class in May, she says she'll have two very special people in mind.

"I think I will dedicate my speech to my parents, even though they are not here," Ashley said. "I believe they are still watching over me, and they can still hear what I'm saying."