Sara - I have asked this question in my head many many times. I have had more bad happen to me than good. I don't believe in a God as set out in the bible. I think there is something, not sure what. Saying that, though, I do pray for a person, or situation to be changed - to date its never made any difference.
I have been praying every day since Christmas for a young lad of 22, who we know. He sadly died this morning, Sometimes mircles do happen, but is this because there is a God or just life in general that deals the cards from the deck and if you get the joker, then tough or if you get the Ace then great.
Sorry to hear of your daughter's friend.