POLLYANNA for the Skaggs family — AR

Jason and Kendra met at a singles Bible study and went on their first date Valentine’s weekend. Kendra was a single mom who had recently moved 1500 miles across the country from California to Arkansas with her 5-year-old son Carter. While they were dating, Kendra had to undergo surgery and was told by the doctors that she had only about a year to get pregnant if she wanted another child. She thought it might be a deal-breaker for Jason who always wanted to have children, but he loved her and Carter too much to let that stop him. It didn’t take long for them to know God had meant for them to be together, and they married just over 7 months later.

 

Jason and Kendra left pregnancy in God’s hands and began discussing the possibility of adoption. Kendra is a special education teacher and has always has a heart for children with special needs. In fact, she didn’t know when she earned her MA in special education with a focus in Autism, that her own son would one day be diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome. They set a timeline to undergo fertility treatment before committing to adoption. During that time, God brought other adoptive families into their lives and they were introduced to Reece’s Rainbow. Jason was hesitant at first as they were looking at children with Down Syndrome and gaining exposure through events like the Buddy Walk.

 

It was a few months into looking at the waiting children on Reece’s Rainbow and discussing what types of disabilities would work best for their family that Pollyanna was added. They immediately knew she was the one God had chosen for them. Carter was also very excited as he wanted a child who was able to play with him. He has written a letter to the Russians telling them he “means peace” and wants to teach Pollyanna English and will take good care of her. He even bought her a Christmas ornament, read a book about Russia and made room for her to put DSi games for girls in his case. He wants to sell hot chocolate to raise money for her adoption so she can be home in time for him to teach her how to Call the Hogs when football season starts. Everyone is very excited to bring her home and complete the family.

3/15/12—DOSSIER COMPLETE

Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://www.penniesforpolina.blogspot.com