|
Because every family deserves the blessing of a child with Down Syndrome... |
 |
Brenna
Girl, born December 2007
Microcephaly; Other congenital valgus deformities of feet (duck toed); Coloboma of optic disc; Severe mental delays; strabismus; paralytic syndromes (cerebral palsy?)
What a cutie! And what a world of different a head of hair would make for her, she needs to be in pigtails!
Cecily
Girl, born January 2007
Mixed developmental disorders; congenital malformations of ribs; Coloboma of optic disc; strabismus; Mild protein-energy malnutrition
Cecily should be getting ready for kindergarten, not an institution!
She has some facial features of possible FAS, but this is not documented and is only a cautionary disclosure.
Rania
Girl, born March 1999
Down syndrome
She looks so thoughtful, doesn’t she? She only has until age 16 to be adopted — let’s not let her wait that long! This princess needs a Mama!
Rania (along with GraceLynn and Kinsley) are in a facility for older disabled children. We are blessed to have the photos and info we do to fight for these girls to find forever families. We may be their ONLY chance at a future. We are seeking an experienced adoptive family who will take a chance on one of these girls, and help open the doors for other older children waiting in this institution.
Married couples only. Older parents and large families welcome. Travel required. Previous adoptive experience of older institutionalized children is preferred.
Emmalyn
Girl, born May 2001
Down syndrome
Emmalyn is a beauty, with her shy smile!
Such a gift to be able to advocate for these older girls. Large families welcome!
Kinley
Girl, born April 2001
Down syndrome
Sweet Kinley, she’s never has really had her picture taken before, but she’s trying! It’s apparent she’s in need of dental work, and either glasses or surgery to help her vision.
She’s already waited so long, let’s find Kinley her mama!
Gracelynn
Girl, born December 2002
Down syndrome
Well, doesn’t this little pixie look like a spit fire? Those deep brown eyes are gorgeous!
Large families welcome, travel required. Married couples only. Gracelynn could be adopted with Rania, Kinley, and/or Emmalyn.
Barrett
Boy, born October 2011
This little love has a heart defect and numerous other health issues: condition after resection of coarctation of the aorta, aneurysm of interatrial septum with multiple defects perimembranous (VSD), laryngotracheomalacia (collapsed airway), micrognathia (abnormally small jaw), tracheostomy
It’s suspected that Barrett may have Pierre Robin syndrome or a chromosome deletion. Families should be prepared for additional health needs, just in case.
Barrett desperately needs a family to give him the love, attention and medical care he needs to thrive.
Missy
Girl, born September 2008
Cerebral Palsy
Sweet girl needs a family to save her from a lifetime in a crib. No further pictures or information on her current condition is currently available.
Large families welcome, travel required.
Sabin
Boy, born October 2004
HIV-infection, IV clinical stage, no signs of AIDS, biochemistry test is good; congenital hydrocephaly (shunting); myatonia disorders; disco-visual nerve subatrophy; myelinic cone fibers; hypertrophy of palatine tonsils; two anomalous chords of ventricle; biliary dyskinesia; slight mental delay with minimal behavioral disorders, night enuresis, organic emotional instable disorders. Probable FAS.
He is said to be very careful and orderly, so he is probably a kid who does very well with routines and structure. He is also described as very helpful.
Abner
Boy, born December 2009
Diagnosis: after-effects of general disease of the central nervous system (neuroinfection); spastic tetraparesis with strong motor disorders; general mental delays, including speech underdevelopment; undescended testicles; shortcut frenulum of tongue; convergent squint
Anne
Girl, born February 2008
Diagnosis: epilepsy, generalized form with severe seizures
Moderate mental delay
Sweet Anne, all dolled up for her picture!
She does have some general delays, and is not yet independent with potty training. She would greatly benefit from being in a family!
From a family who met her in April 2013:
Anne is walking independently. She can go up and down steps with help. She smiles a lot. She likes to drop toys and watch them fall. She appears to be connected to her caregiver and goes to her for comfort. She liked a music/light up toy but needed guidance to activate it. She appears pretty cognitively delayed, and doesn’t have any verbal language. I see a lot of progress in her with the right family and interventions!
Caius and Ezra are in the same orphanage with Anne.
Married couples only, travel required.
Angela
Girl, born February 2001
Diagnosis: severe grade of the mental delay, hydrocephalus, fibrosis of hyaloid, secondary glaucoma, exfoliation/detachment of retina, congenital defect of the heart partition
Angela is very small for her age. She needs a family!
Update June 2013:
She is so sweet. She is blind, but follows with her head your voice and she smiles very big when you talk to her! She has such potential but is in a bed!!
Tyson
Boy, born May 2000
Diagnosis: congenital anomaly of brain development in form of microcephaly with severe lag in development of psychological, speech and motor development, myopathic syndrome
Additional medical information and social history available for potential families. Families must be home study approved to commit to Tyson.
Greta
Girl, born November 1998
Down syndrome
Mama, are you out there? Please come get me! We are so happy for the chance to help sweet Greta find her family.
Greta is very petite; more the size of a 5 year old than the 13 year old she actually is. Developmentally, she is quite delayed, probably closer to a 3-4 year old. In many ways, she is toddler like. Greta is missing out on the essential things in life- a mama and daddy to teach her the things she needs to know, school lessons to maximize her potential for learning, and hope for a future.
From a family who visited with her in September 2012: “Greta desperately desires to be loved and shown affection. It broke our hearts to see how desperate she was for attention. She would climb up us before we even knew what was happening and was clinging to us. She probably needs to go to a family that can devote a lot of one on one attention to her, and that she be the youngest child, because she can get aggressive when she is jealous for attention. I hope this helps her find a family.”
From a family who visited with her in August 2012: “Love Greta! She climbed over the playpen wall to hug on me. She’s walking now, thanks to a team of foreign therapists who worked in that groupa. She has so much potential- but needs a lot of love and a family! I just know there has to be a family out there for this thin, wiry little girl, a family who likes to play and be energetic 
”
More photos available! Married couples only. Large families and older parents welcome. *** Families with adoptive experience and a completed home study would be the best option for Miss Greta. ***
Katrina
Girl, Born December 2001
Oh what a miracle, to have an updated photo of Katrina!!! And there is the light I knew had to be there! She doesn’t realize it, but now that she has a profile here on Reece’s Rainbow, Katrina has a CHANCE…a chance for a new life, a family of her own, to get out of these four walls and to have something to smile about.
From her medical records: Down syndrome, significant cognitive delay (coupled with FAS), flatfoot, partial atrophy of optic nerves, esotropia, secondary cardiomyopathy.
From a missionary who visited with her in March 2012: Oh my heart…I so wanted to bring her home! She is a giggly soft hearted darling…she needs a mama!
Katrina and Tania can be adopted together if a family is approved and interested. 10 day wait often waived here. Married couples only, larger families welcome.
Eric
Boy, born Dec 2008
Eric is a smiley little fellow who likes to feel his caretaker’s heartbeat or pulse, because it comforts him. He would be a wonderful little brother in a household of older children.
Eric has arthrogryposis and compensated hydrocephalus. He has had a surgical repair of spina bifada. Overall, he is healthy and would do well in a family without smaller children. His upper body is quite strong and he has full use of his hands, fingers and arms, but he has little control or movement in his lower limbs and they are significantly smaller than his upper body. He can squeeze very tightly with his hands, and reach a full arm’s length with no problems even though his resting position is the one you see in the pictures. He does not talk, according to the caretakers but does make sounds to communicate. Cognitively, he has significant delays due to his history of spina bifida and hydrocephalus. He is very much still an infant in many ways.
The picture in the orange shirt was taken at age 18 months, and the second picture was taken at 3 years old. He may have a sister a few years older in a different region who possibly could also be available for adoption or he could be adopted separately. She also has special needs.
James LA
Boy, Born May 2011
CO-A
Sweet baby James! Healthy besides his Down syndrome, and waiting for his forever family. Full medical and social history available.
- Single heterosexual parents may adopt
- No family size restrictions
- Both parents must travel to the country and stay until completion of adoption — approx 5-7 weeks (one parent may leave after a week or two)
- Estimated total cost $21,000-24,500
- Multiple unrelated children may be adopted together
Cullen #12-4
DOB: 2001
Diagnosis: Down syndrome
Update January 2012: Cullen is in 4th grade this year. He knows the names of all the children in his class and has a best friend. He pronounces short words and simple sentences. He can repeat numbers and counts to 5 with help. He is very musical and loves to dance.
Additional photos of Cullen are available.
Cullen is 12 years old. He’s been living in a mental institution since the age of 5. He is completely healthy with no physical delays or health problems. Cullen is in 3rd grade at a local special education school. He enjoys going on walks and field trips. He plays with blocks, mechanical toys and kitchen sets. He engages in pretend play. He likes to look at books and will look at the pictures in the book and point to objects in them upon request. He can identify animals and foods and choose them from photos. He has well developed self-help skills. He’s toilet trained, feeds himself, dresses himself, folds his own clothes and washes his hands and face independently before bed each night.
Warren
Boy, Born July, 2010
PRC
Blind and cleft palate
This resilient little boy was very small and weak at intake and was diagnosed with cleft lip and palate and blindness when he came into care at approximately 2 months old. The orphanage decided to move him to a therapeutic care facility in a different city to receive more specialized treatment. Once there he gained weight quickly and after just one month his overall health and development improved.
Warren is now able to sit in a baby seat, hold his head up for several minutes, and turn over without help. He smiles when played with or his name is called, and he can hold a toy and grab a hand. He likes to kick often too, and his arm and leg development is reported to be good. He is now an excellent eater and is not picky with food. His caregivers are hoping to schedule him for cleft lip and / or palate repair surgery soon. Further assessment on his vision impairment is needed. This child needs a family that has experience with vision issues, access to appropriate resources for vision impaired children and cleft lip and palate services and resources, and understands the social impact of blindness.
George
Boy, born December 2003
George is HIV+
Such beautiful hazel eyes this boy has!
More photos available.
Kade #16-2
DOB: 2002
Diagnosis: Down syndrome, asthma
Kade is currently living in a mental institution but is doing very well. He is attending school in the local village. His gross and fine motor skills are well developed. He colors inside the lines, feeds and dresses himself and is toilet trained. His expressive and receptive language is developed. He answers to his name, follows directions and repeats the names of objects. He participates in games and seeks out contact with other children. He enjoys playing with stuffed animals, musical toys and mechanical toys.
His play is appropriate. He is impulsive and will get upset if he doesn’t get his way. However, he is not aggressive toward himself nor toward other people. He has a short attention span and will often give up easily when an activity is too hard and ask to do something else instead. Kade is described as calm, inquisitive, headstrong, sensitive and communicative.
Update from Feb 2013: Kade is toilet trained, feeds and dresses himself, says some words, follows directions, and is not aggressive. He attends special education classes taught by teachers who come to the institution for instructional time. He is active and enjoys playing outside and staying busy. He enjoys the attention from the staff and will act silly to get them to pay attention to him. We have several current photos and a video of him. In the video, he is playing on playground equipment, following directions, joking around with staff and making funny faces at the camera and you can hear him say a few words too. He is living in a mental institution, but he is well cared for and doing quite well.
Madden #61-1
DOB: 2004
Down syndrome
Madden is doing very well! He is physically healthy and has never had any medical concerns. Like most children with Down syndrome, he’s physically small for his age. He weighed 34 pounds on his 7th birthday.
Developmentally, Madden is delayed. He can walk and has good gross motor skills. He is talking and can say words and use simple sentences. He knows and pronounces his name and the names of the other children and care givers in his group. His articulation is not always clear. He is receiving speech therapy.
Madden is described has having difficult with focus and attention. He follows directions and is very compliant with the teachers and staff when given encouragement and positive feedback. He is learning a variety of life skills, including dressing himself, brushing his teeth and making his bed. He enjoys playing with toy blocks and trucks. In September 2011, he began attending a daycare center to assist him in learning appropriate social skills and to help integrate him into the local community.
More photos available.
Andrue #16-4
DOB: 2004
Andrue was raised by his birth family until he was 9 months old. At that time, he was hospitalized for genetic testing and when the diagnosis of Down syndrome was confirmed, he was left at the hospital. He was then transferred to an orphanage and later on, to an institution for children with mental disabilities, which is his current home. He walks, climbs and catches a ball. He likes to play with stuffed animals and has one favorite stuffed animal that he carries around with him. He reacts to his name and follows simple directions. He pronounces some syllables and attempts to communicate, but his speech is not yet developed. He smiles when spoken to and enjoys cuddling with familiar adults.
Kristopher
Boy, born September 2004
Cerebral paulsy, spastic diplegia, mental delay, epileptic syndrome, crossed eyes.
Look at the bright smile on this handsome boy! Kristopher has cerebral palsy and is cross-eyed, but would do so well in a family of his own!
Update from someone who met him in summer 2013:
Kristopher is one of those wise old souls. He is very intelligent and loves it when adults come and visit him. He’s also quite the charmer – the head of Child Services for the region was so charmed with him she gave him a life-sized stuffed crocodile for a present! Kristopher loves his classes at the orphanage and always strives to please the teacher, and he has many friends. He also loves music – one of the other missionaries let him play with her harmonica the first day and every day after that he asked for “the thing that blows”. He has some strabismus and gets around well in his wheelchair. The director would love for a family to adopt him, and she says he would do well.
Kristopher can be adopted with Collier, Dylan, Cambria, Aubree, and Tatumn. He and Collier are in the same groupa.
Tessa (Lora)
Girl, born August 2008
We were recently informed LORA is actually Tessa!
What a little doll Tessa is! She really needs a family — she has a whole host of medical issues.
Mental delay, rickets, strabismus (crossed eyes), epilepsy, and a speech delay. She does not talk at all. She prefers to be alone. Some of her behaviors remind autism but she was not diagnosed with it. Her epilepsy is well controlled by medications. It has been suggested that Tessa may have Angelman Syndrome, but this is not confirmed.
She is able to stand and walk independently. She does not have a diagnosis of CP but she walks unsteadily. She was previously diagnosed with microcephaly.
She deserves a loving family and a chance to reach her potential, not to be hidden away in a mental institution.
Ulysess #46-2
DOB: February 2004
Diagnosis: Down syndrome, Chronic pyelonephritis, hydronephrosis first degree to the left kidney
Ulysess is considered significantly delayed. As of March 2011, he was not independently walking. He can pull to a stand, walk while holding someone’s hand, walks behind push toys and climb in and out of his crib on his own. He holds toys in his hands and plays with them. He enjoys music and smiles when someone sings to him. He does have some sensory issues and will often hide his head in his hands. He demonstrates some auto-aggression by hitting the side of his head with his palm. He has frequent kidney infections and it is possible that he experiences pain from his kidney condition that effects his behavior.
Tania
Girl, born August 2002.
She is said to be independant and active, and she especially loves to swing. She is shy with other children, and seeks attention from adults, cuddling up when hugs and affection are available.
From her medical records: Down syndrome, esotropia, flatfoot, secondary cardiomyopathy.
From a missionary who visited with her in March 2012: One time the care giver made her sit with other children she was so desperate for me all to herself shecried! she really didnt want to share me. This is seriously one child who wants a Mama! She seemed so bright, there is so much potential here being wasted. She whacked the other children to keep them away from me but I could tell she was not an aggressive child. Tania is fiesty and able and just desperate for love! I loved her!!! I wanted to bring her and Katarina home. Tania is always active and she loves playing with her swing set, unlike the other kids who rather just play with their toys. The child is a bit shy around the children of her age. However, she is very brave and courageous when dealing with new visitors. The girl suffers from a lack of motherly care and gentleness, so she is attracted to everyone who is nice and kind to her. She hides her lonely soul behind the wall of her active and independent lifestyle. But as soon as she receives a warm hug and a little love, the mischievous girl suddenly becomes docile and calm.
Larger families, older parents welcome. Travel required. This region does often waive the 10-day waiting period!
Harriet
Girl, born March 2007
URGENT: FACING IMMINENT TRANSFER to the INSTITUTION
Harriet has a cleft hard and soft palate. She has many facial features of fetal alcohol syndrome, please research this condition as a preparation for her needs. There are several children in this orphanage who could be adopted together!
From an adoptive family who visited with her in Jan 2012:
Troy
Boy, born September 2003
mild mental delays
Troy has been transferred to the local Internat. He is listed as having a mild mental delay. (His eyes look odd here because of the red eye reduction used on the photograph.)
Troy does not speak, but understands speech addressed to him.
Troy could be adopted with Sammy and Garrett.
From a family who met him in 2012:
The profile says he is non-verbal and that is true, he did not talk at all while I was there. However he was extremely gentle, kind, and had a very sweet demeanor. I took bubbles one day and all the kids mobbed me wanting to play, Troy just stood there patiently smiling at me and waiting his turn. I don’t think I ever saw him without a smile on his face. He would sit next to me at the table and would stare very sweetly at me and when I would make eye contact he would put his arms out to give me a hug. I do not know about his cognitive ability because I just did not get to spend enough time with him but he did understand the instructions he was given by his teacher and care taker at the boarding school with no problems, obeying them and following all their instructions (with a smile on his face). Physically he had no problems. I do not know if his lack of speech is due to trauma or an actual inability to form words. I will absolutely never forget how gentle and loving he was, he lives to be hugged and he loved what little one-on-one attention I was able to give him. He was so patient and kind to the other kids. A family would be blessed to have this precious boy as their son!
Megan
Girl, Born October 2002
Praise God for a new photo! Isn’t she BEAUTIFUL!? This beautiful girl is waiting for her forever family. She has blonde hair and blue eyes. She was born with Down syndrome, and is positive for Hep B.
Elise
Girl, Born April 2005
Elise a lovely girl who is six years old. She is blessed that her mother and grandmother visit her sometimes, but she is in need of a forever family.
Elise was born with CP. She walks with a push walker.
From her caregivers: friendly, communicative, likes to play with other children; memory is not very good; not very active.
Many more photos available.
Marla
Girl, Born March 2007
FACING IMMINENT TRANSFER!!!
Poor sweet Marla …she was born with severe CP. She has a loving personality, but is completely immobile on her own. She is facing transfer soon and will remain bedridden the rest of her life if she is not adopted 
(
From her medical records: Congenital malformation of the CNS: microcephaly, spastic tetraparesis. Can not walk. Does not speak.
Married couples only, older parents and large families welcome, travel required. More photos available.
Brittany
Girl, Born April 2005
SO THANKFUL FOR A NEW PIC OF BRITTANY! She looks wonderful!!!
Brittany is a beautiful girl with striking blue eyes. Brittany has Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. She is able to walk and speak some, but she is quite delayed. She will so benefit from having a loving family of her own.
From someone who met her: She is very active and loves helping others. She can dress herself, feed herself, and do other tasks with minimal help. She loves reading stories to herself and hearing other people tell stories. The staff wants to make her feel like she’s just like the other children, even though she’s more disabled than the rest of them. She says she has many friends, and loves to dance and sing. She’s also very shy. She keeps asking around for a mama.
More photos and VIDEO available: http://mediapasport.com.ua/41-anastasiya.html
Married couples only. Older parents and large families welcome. Travel required.
Gabrielle
Girl, Born October 2006
From her medical records: symptomatic early myoclonic encephalopathy, spastic tetraparesis, severe delay of psychospeech development, perceptive hearing loss
Gabrielle really needs a family of her own! She will remain bedridden for the rest of her short life if she is not adopted, and is facing the institution very soon.
Felix
Boy, Born October 20, 2003
Diagnosis: Down syndrome
What a cutie! Betcha he is a handful! Felix is blessed to be at more of an internat than the institution. He doesn’t have many words of his own, but his receptive understanding is very good. He is potty trained and does ask to go to the bathroom. He is described by his caregivers as very friendly and quite the comedian!
Felix urgently needs a family. He was raised as the only child with DS in the baby house. He was much loved and the only child with special needs there, so he didn’t know he was different….. he was raised like the rest of the kids…and was transferred late to the “Internat for Invalids”. Felix was ADORED up until he was about 8 and has taken the transfer very hard. Felix is SUCH a love and he deserves to have a family of his own. Please help us rally for Felix!
More photos available, married couples only.
Samuel #3-2
Boy, Born June 2003
YAY, new photo of Samuel, loooks how he’s grown! Updated medical info available as well.
Samuel has Down syndrome, an undescended testicle & flat feet. He also has a functional heart murmur that does not require therapy. He is integrated in a room with healthy children. He walks independently. He can drink out of a cup but still requires assistance with feeding. He carries our simple verbal instructions. He seeks out the company of adults. His development is delayed in all areas.
SINGLE MOMS, OLDER PARENTS, & LARGE FAMILIES WELCOME, EASY TRAVEL
Eric
BOY, Born October 29, 2006
SIGNIFICANT RISK, PLEASE ADOPT ME SOON!!
More medical info coming, please check back soon.
Eric will be institutionalized and remain bedridden for life…he needs a family quickly!
Preston
BOY, Born July 5, 2006
Cerebral palsy
SIGNIFICANT RISK, PLEASE ADOPT ME SOON!!
More medical info coming, please check back soon.
Preston will be institutionalized and remain bedridden for life…he needs a family quickly!
Amelia #2-1
Girl, Born August 2001
Down syndrome
Amelia was born with a Congenital cardiac malformation – Fallot’s tetralogy. Surgery was performed in 2005 and her heart condition was completely corrected. Amelia is currently living in a mental institution. She is delayed in all aspects of her development but does receive therapy. She also participates in the granny/grandchild program at the institution. She walks with support. Her speech is developing. She is making sounds and can say “no” and attempts to say the word for granny. She responds to her name, follows basic directions, and plays with toys. She drinks from a cup and eats independently. She enjoys affection, responds well to being cuddled, and is a very happy child.
Photo and medical report were updated in February 2010.
SINGLE MOMS, OLDER PARENTS, & LARGE FAMILIES WELCOME, EASY TRAVEL
MULTIPLE CHILDREN CAN BE ADOPTED AT THE SAME TIME
Isabelle #2-2
Girl, Born February 2002
Down syndrome
From her medical records: The child is in a very good general condition. Elementary thinking processes are observed. She can’t speak but pronounces sounds and combinations of sounds: ba-ba, etc. that are completely random. She knows her name and reacts when called. She carries out elementary orders. She is not oriented for place and time. Her attention is unstable, her memory is mechanic.
In emotional aspect the child is calm, merry and playful. She enjoys the attention that she is paid and actively seeks it. She easily enters into interaction with the children and the adults in the orphanage. She has friends among the children and prefers to play with them. She reacts actively in musical classes – makes rhythmical movements, but almost doesn’t play with toys and prefers to put them in her mouth or toss them.
The child walks independently and carries out the orders of the physical therapist – crouches, stands up. She already eats by herself. She doesn’t signal about her physiological needs and is taken care of entirely by the personnel of the orphanage.
The child is being taught to put her clothes on and take them off on her own. The training for gaining life skills continues.
Single moms and large families welcome, easy travel!
Dawn #17-1
Girl, born 2001
Down syndrome
Update May 2012:
Dawn lived in an orphanage until she was three, when they moved her to an institution.
She just started walking a couple of months ago. She enjoys interacting with adults and playing with toys. Her favorite activities and toys revolve around music. She understands what is said to her but does not have any meaningful speech at this time. She reacts very positively to attention, smiles and cheers when adults interact with her. She attends a class at the institution, but does not go to school outside of the institution. She has not had the opportunity to experience many of the ordinary activities that other children her age are naturally exposed to due to the length of time she’s been institutionalized. She doesn’t have any medical or behavioral concerns. She just needs a family willing to look past her age to see her potential!
SINGLE MOMS, OLDER PARENTS, & LARGE FAMILIES WELCOME, EASY TRAVEL. MULTIPLE CHILDREN CAN BE ADOPTED AT THE SAME TIME FOR LOW COST.
Devon (Brian)
Boy, Born October 15, 2001
Devon was previously listed as “Brian” — but it’s the same boy! He’s so handsome, and still waiting for a family.
Thomas
Boy, Born August 2007
From his medical records: congenital anomaly of the brain, internal hydrocephalus, spastic tetraparesis, convergent strabismus.
Does not speak, but smiles a lot.
Kirk
BOY, born August 28, 2006
From his medical records: Connective tissue dysplasia, chest distortion, crossed eyes, delay of psychological development, functional cardiopathy.
Emerson
Boy, Born May 2007
From his medical records: symptomatic epilepsy as a result of tuberous sclerosis (Bourneville-Pringle disease), (incomplete form)dysplastic cardiopathy, thymokesis, anemia
Emerson is growing up so fast! He is so tall now! He is a sweet, blonde haired, blue eyed boy waiting for his forever family. He is quite self sufficient and a happy child.
MORE PHOTOS AVAILABLE
Kiersten
Girl, Born April 1, 2000
ALIVE and WAITING!
A question was raised about whether Kiersten had passed away, but this photo was taken March 14, 2012 
She still needs a family!
Isn’t Kiersten beautiful? She is 12 years old but is still very much a toddler. She is not able to walk on her own. There is nothing in her medical records to indicate why she is so delayed, and she does not show obvious facial features of FAS…her needs are quite unknown.
From her medical records: significant mental delay, congenital hypothyroidism
As with all children living in these difficult conditions, this child’s cognitive development has regressed significantly since he/she was younger. It is of crucial importance that any family considering the adoption of an older child from the mental institution setting be well prepared for what to expect with regards to how the neglect and lack of adequate medical care and nourishment has affected this child. These children all have TREMENDOUS potential for improvement, and deserve to have a life outside these four walls.
Yasmine
Girl, Born June 19, 2004
SIGNIFICANT RISK, PLEASE ADOPT ME SOON!!
Yasmine is walking sunshine! What a glorious smile and a personality to match! Yasmine was born with CP. She has congeinital hydrocephaly as well. Her feet/ankles are turned in, but she is able to pull to a stand and tries so hard to get around! Surgery and therapy can make a world of difference for this darling little girl.
She is already 8 and facing the institution soon. She is blessed to still be at the baby house.
Let’s find a family for her FAST!!!
PLEASE HELP! TRANSFER IMMINENT!!
More photos available, please inquire. Older parents and large families welcome. MARRIED COUPLES ONLY. Travel required.
Valerie
Girl, Born February 2004
SIGNIFICANT RISK, PLEASE ADOPT ME SOON!! Valerie has been transferred.
Isn’t Valerie cute?? She is diagnosed with hypothyroidism. She also has strabismus (crossed/lazy eyes). She is diagnosed with developmental delay, and shows many of the facial characteristics of a child with FAS (Fetal Alcohol syndrome). But she is a darling girl, very active, loving and affectionate! She is facing the institution soon. I hope a family is out there waiting just for her!
If you are unfamiliar with FAS, please spend some time researching this condition. Just as with Down syndrome, FAS and FAE have a wide variation of effects on each child, both medically, physically, and cognitively. This is typically dependent on how long during the pregnancy the mother consumed alcohol, and of course, how much. There is no way to know this ahead of time.
Donations will be accepted for this child when further information is received.
Justine
Girl, Born June 11, 2001
From her medical records: congenital microcephaly, autism
Justine is a pretty girl with dark hair and eyes. She is fully mobile and active. Her face bears features of FAS, but this is not documented and is only a cautionary disclosure.
As with all children living in these difficult conditions, this child’s cognitive development has regressed significantly since he/she was younger. It is of crucial importance that any family considering the adoption of an older child from the mental institution setting be well prepared for what to expect with regards to how the neglect and lack of adequate medical care and nourishment has affected this child. These children all have TREMENDOUS potential for improvement, and deserve to have a life outside these four walls.
Alisha
Girl, Born March 24, 2003
Alisha was born with Penn-Sjogren Syndrome. We do not have any other info indicating why she may be cognitively and physically delayed. She has cognitive delays, and a divergent squint.
Update 2012:
Little Miss Alisha’s eyesight has regressed significantly. She needs a family!
She can’t move by herself but she tries to sit. Her speech is not developed. Mental processes are not formed. Ideation is not developed. Alisha is friendly and quiet. Her emotional world is poor. She needs care constantly.
Update June 2013:
Look how good she looks! When I saw her she was sitting on the floor with another child, and she reached out and tugged on my pant leg almost like “look at me!” I said her name, and she gave me a big grin.
Jewell
Girl, Born April 2006
Cerebral palsy / TBI
SIGNIFICANT RISK, PLEASE ADOPT ME SOON!!
Eugene is really a GIRL! After all this time, we have learned he is a SHE.
Dark brown hair and blue-green eyes. She has severe CP, but has recently started walking!
Jewell is the victim of parental physical abuse, and suffers from post-traumatic brain injury, which has further complicated her delays and struggles.
She does have a sister with mild delays whom she can be adopted with or by herself.
Nicholas
BOY, born November 9, 2006
Nicholas is officially diagnosed with FAS (fetal alcohol syndrome). His delay is considered significant. He needs a loving family to help him achieve all he can be. He does not appear to have any additional medical complications from his FAS. This picture makes him seem to have vision problems, but I think it’s just a bad picture.
If you are unfamiliar with FAS, please spend some time researching this condition. Just as with Down syndrome, FAS and FAE have a wide variation of effects on each child, both medically, physically, and cognitively. This is typically dependent on how long during the pregnancy the mother consumed alcohol, and of course, how much. There is no way to know this ahead of time.
Kolya #7-2
Boy, Born August 2004
Main diagnosis: Down Syndrome. Asthma with prevailing allergic component. Lagging behind in his neuro-psychical development. Abnormally low weight; full medical records available
SINGLE MOMS, OLDER PARENTS, & LARGE FAMILIES WELCOME, EASY TRAVEL
Alexey
Boy, Born April 11, 2001
Alexey is consdered significantly delayed. He is fully mobile, and oh so handsome! But he has been given a second chance at life, saved from the mental institution and living in this well-kept school setting.
From a family who met him, Sept 2012:
Alexei is really a handsome guy and I think he knows it! He was playing ball with his groupa and is very active. When he was given a cookie from us he said thank you appropriately and made perfect eye contact. He will be a joy to any family with sons at home!
Update June 2013:
Alexey has a very big sweet tooth! He would not put down his lollipop to take a picture- when asked he told us politely “No, thank you.”
Alex
Boy, Born May 30, 2001
Alex is a handsome young man who is already living in the mental institution. Despite this he has a wonderful, open, and affectionate personality. His medical records indicate congenital hydrocephaly, but he does not appear “hydrocephalic”. Alex is able to walk with assistance, and will truly blossom with family support and therapy.
From his medical records: severe grade of mental delay, congenital hydrocephaly, divergent/external squint, glaucoma, lower paraparesis, and flat foot
As with all children living in these difficult conditions, this child’s cognitive development has regressed significantly since he/she was younger. It is of crucial importance that any family considering the adoption of an older child from the mental institution setting be well prepared for what to expect with regards to how the neglect and lack of adequate medical care and nourishment has affected this child. These children all have TREMENDOUS potential for improvement, and deserve to have a life outside these four walls.
Glenn
Boy, Born August 16, 2003
Down syndrome
Glenn has blonde hair and blue eyes. He has Down syndrome, and struggles with the effects of FAS. With this comes strabismus and a valvular heart defect. Despite this, he is doing well, mobile and active and friendly.
As with all children living in these difficult conditions, this child’s cognitive development has regressed significantly since he/she was younger. It is of crucial importance that any family considering the adoption of an older child from the mental institution setting be well prepared for what to expect with regards to how the neglect and lack of adequate medical care and nourishment has affected this child. These children all have TREMENDOUS potential for improvement, and deserve to have a life outside these four walls.
Updated 2012:
Sweet Glenn is such a love! Despite multiple medical conditions he is doing pretty well! He loves to hug and understands commands. His finger motor skills are not well developed. He can eat and use the bathroom independently. He is currently not speaking very much but it does not sound like he attends any speech therapy. He does need help changing his clothes but he is practicing!
This little guy could greatly use a family to help stimulate his speech and his fine motor skills.
Colin
Boy, Born December 16, 2002
Colin has the most striking blue eyes! He was born with CP and is not able to walk on his own yet. His upper body seems to be fine, but his legs are affected by the spasticity. Colin has tremendous potential for improvement with therapy and a loving family. He is medically healthy outside of his CP.
From his medical records: microcephaly, CP, spastic tetraplegia
As with all children living in these difficult conditions, this child’s cognitive development has regressed significantly since he/she was younger. It is of crucial importance that any family considering the adoption of an older child from the mental institution setting be well prepared for what to expect with regards to how the neglect and lack of adequate medical care and nourishment has affected this child. These children all have TREMENDOUS potential for improvement, and deserve to have a life outside these four walls.
Andrew
Boy, Born December 3, 2001
You know he is the one, when you walk into the building, he runs to greet you and takes you for a tour of the place. Andrew is medically healthy, but shows many of the facial characteristics of FAS (fetal alcohol syndrome). He is cognitively delayed, but active and friendly, with great potential in a family environment.
From his medical records: microcephaly
As with all children living in these difficult conditions, this child’s cognitive development has regressed significantly since he/she was younger. It is of crucial importance that any family considering the adoption of an older child from the mental institution setting be well prepared for what to expect with regards to how the neglect and lack of adequate medical care and nourishment has affected this child. These children all have TREMENDOUS potential for improvement, and deserve to have a life outside these four walls.
Leo
Boy, Born December 4, 2002
Leo’s needs are mostly physical. He is a happy and social child.
From his medical records: lower paraplegia, secondary arthrogryposis, right-side scoliosis, convergent squint
As with all children living in these difficult conditions, this child’s cognitive development has regressed significantly since he/she was younger. It is of crucial importance that any family considering the adoption of an older child from the mental institution setting be well prepared for what to expect with regards to how the neglect and lack of adequate medical care and nourishment has affected this child. These children all have TREMENDOUS potential for improvement, and deserve to have a life outside these four walls.
Evan
Boy, Born June 2003
Diagnosis: cerebral palsy, epileptic syndrome, significant mental delays. Unable to walk, spastic/tight muscles. Evan is blessed to still be at the baby house (as of March 2010), but once he is transferred, he will spend the rest of his short life bedridden. Please consider being a loving family for Evan!
From a family who met him in summer 2012: One of the boys I worry most about is Evan. He appears to have cerebral palsy. He is stiff and a bit distorted. He does not have the luxury of PT and OT to help him function better. He sits hour after hour in a wheel chair. As he gets older and bigger he will be moved to a bed and left there. He will be put in a diaper and left in bed – fed there and left – the diaper changed once or twice a day. He will just be left to lay there.
Jason
Boy, Born April 10, 2003
HELP! I have been transferred to a remote institution, with no hope of finding my family without you!
Jason spends his time either in a crib or in a stroller, sitting outside.
He needs a lot of love and attention … He is a good, sweet child, but he has a lot of self-injuring behaviors. Unfortunately, he is often restrained because he hits himself really hard.
Update Nov 2012: Jason is learning to walk with support!
From a family who visited with him in June 2013: I saw Jason this morning. I got to take him for a walk in the stroller, play with him, feed him (twice!), and get him ready for his nap. He is wonderful. He loved it when I made my hand crawl up his belly and tickle him under the chin. I was rewarded with loud laughing and a huge smile. He liked to have me rub his feet, and whenever I would stop he would stick his little foot up for more. He makes noises but he does not talk. He can walk if he holds both of your hands, but he prefers to crawl as he can go faster. He is the king of the bouncy seat. He sits in it whenever he can, and he shooed away another child who came too close. He is about the size of a four year old and is in a 4/5 shirt. He’s heavier than I thought he would be, but I can carry him easily. I’m totally in love.
10 day wait often waived here. Married couples only, larger families welcome.
Matvey
Boy, Born August 28, 2004
SIGNIFICANT RISK, PLEASE ADOPT ME SOON!!
Matvey is such a cute little boy, with blonde curls! He is cognitively delayed, but does not seem to have any official diagnosis other than that. He has amazing potential!! He was transferred to another region in 2010.
Please give this little guy a chance to fulfill his potential! One of our own adoptive families who visited with him in March 2008 shared this with us: “This little guy did NOT want to be photographed! He was quite happy doing whatever he was doing before being brought into the room but having his picture taken was not high on his priority list. He has “deep mental delay” (understand that this is according to Eastern European standards — he was more aware and alert than a child with Down syndrome might be at the same age). I can’t tell you his eye color because he down-right refused to look at me, but those blonde curls sure were cute!”
Brett #19-1
Boy, Born August 23, 2001
Diagnosis: Down Syndrome, Severe lagging behind in his development, Alopetio areata
Brett was born premature at home and taken to an open field, where he was abandoned. He was there for 6 hours before being rescued and taken to a local hospital, where he was treated for shock, hypothermia, bug bites all over his body and difficulty breathing. Once released from the hospital, he was placed in an orphanage and later transferred to a mental institution, where he lives today. From a physical standpoint, he suffered several bouts of bronchitis and other sicknesses as a young child. He does have alopecia (hair loss), but does not have any other health problems at this time. Based on one of the video clips, it appears that Brett is able to pop his hip out of socket, as his can turn his leg at an unnatural angle. He can walk and move freely around in his environment.
Brett suffers from many delays as a result of spending over 10 years in an institutionalized setting. He walks, plays with toys, communicates using gestures and interact with adults at will. He is NOT aggressive. The staff cares for all his basic needs and he is not receiving any academic instruction or any noted therapies at this time.
Several photos and videos of Brett from December 2012 are available.
SINGLE MOMS, OLDER PARENTS, & LARGE FAMILIES WELCOME, EASY TRAVEL
MULTIPLE CHILDREN CAN BE ADOPTED AT THE SAME TIME WITH LOW COST
Marlowe #18-1
Boy, Born August 2001
Diagnosis: Down Syndrome, Inborn cardiac malformation – persisting arterial channel, Lung hypertonia, Severe lagging behind in his development. Photo taken May 2009.
SINGLE MOMS, OLDER PARENTS, & LARGE FAMILIES WELCOME, EASY TRAVEL MULTIPLE CHILDREN CAN BE ADOPTED AT THE SAME TIME WITH LOW COST
Adam #16-1
DOB: 2001
Down syndrome
Adam has lived in a mental institution since shortly after his 4th birthday. Visitors to the institution have described it as very nice and more like a nice hotel than a mental institution. The children are well cared for and have many opportunities to experience things. Yet Adam is still missing the love and attention that comes with having a family of his own.
Adam is 10 years old. He walks and his gross motor skills are well developed. He does not talk at this time but does follow verbal directions. He feeds himself with a spoon but still requires some assistance with dressing. He plays with toys and enjoys music time, but prefers to play alone instead of with the other children. He is not aggressive toward himself nor others and is described as “a calm child”. He does the stereotypical rocking back and forth when sitting, which is a common “orphanage behavior”. He attends school in the local village. He’s in a special education class. He is not interested in most school activities, though he does enjoy music time.
Several additional photos and video clips of Adam are available. From the videos, he really enjoys playing in the pool!
FULL MEDICAL INFO AVAILABLE. SINGLE MOMS, OLDER PARENTS, & LARGE FAMILIES WELCOME, EASY TRAVEL. MULTIPLE CHILDREN CAN BE ADOPTED AT THE SAME TIME WITH LOW COST
Ruslan
Boy, Born November 12, 2002
Down syndrome
ALREADY TRANSFERRED, PLEASE ADOPT ME SOON!!
Ruslan is a handsome young man who is in desperate need of a family right away. He has strabismus, and is also a CARRIER of Hepatitis B. (www.webmd.com) He is asymptomatic at this time. We are trying to get more details on his Hep B….he is living in the general population of children, so they don’t appear to be very concerned about him transmitting it to other children. (Typically, children with blood-born viruses such as Hep B and HIV are isolated in special orphanages and never available to be adopted, so we are thinking that maybe he tested positive at birth and hasn’t been retested, or he isn’t showing any outwards symptoms).
From a nurse in the infectious disease unit in a pediatric hospital: *** Hepatitis B is something that children in the USA are routinely vaccinated for. If parents have not received the vaccinations, they can easily go to their physician and receive the series. With these vaccinations transmission is extremely minimal as vaccinated parties can have immunity to Hepatitis B. Titers (simple blood test) can also be drawn after taking the vaccines to make sure immunity has been acquired. Hepatitis B is also treatable with medications and people can also just be carriers of the virus. This health condition is labeled chronic, but with proper medical treatment and simple precautions it is very treatable and the risk of transmission is minimal at most. ***
Ruslan has already been transferred out to the institution due to his age, but he can still be adopted!! Please open you heart to little Ruslan….he needs you!
Daniel #14-2
Boy, born April 2001
From his medical records: The physical development of the child lags behind considerable from the indexes for the age. The child walks independently and climbs up stairs with support. The movements of the child are not coordinated. The fine motorics are not perfected. The child doesn’t have notions of time built up. He orientates well in the space. He recognizes his image in the mirror and looks at it with an interest. He has perceptions for the main colors but cannot name them. The child is with insufficient ability for concentration of his attention. His active attention is attracted and kept with difficulties. The child is communicative, initiates with ease contacts with the personnel, the other children and with strangers. He likes the contacts with adults. He is not conflict and has good behavior in the group. He is prone to exhibiting whims and to be unhappy. He protects a toy that is taken away from him. The intellect of the child is with deficit corresponding to the diagnosis of Down Syndrome. He shows attachment, joy, anxiety and guilt. He is calm and observes the play of the other children. He plays with them and enjoys contacts with them. He carries out simple orders come here, give me your hand, and sit down. The child doesn’t have skills to serve himself built up, needs constant support. He can eat independently. He can’t put his clothes on and take them off on his own but cooperates when changed. He reacts to his name. He orientates in the daily routine. He doesn’t signal his physiological needs. The child understands the speech of the others when expressed elementary. He carries out orders and verbal commands. He pronounces single words by imitating. He is communicative, seeks contacts, and shows preferences in the interactions with the other children and the personnel. He has expressive mimics by which shows his emotions and attitudes. The child likes to listen to songs, laughs loud and claps with his hands. He moves in time with the music and is very lively and energetic. He attracts the attention of the adults by pulling them or patting them with his little hand because he can’t speak. He pronounces separate syllables: ma, ba, da as well as words from repetitive syllables: mama, baba.
SINGLE MOMS, OLDER PARENTS, & LARGE FAMILIES WELCOME, EASY TRAVEL
MULTIPLE CHILDREN CAN BE ADOPTED AT THE SAME TIME WITH LOW COST
Dixon #2-3
Boy, Born March 2001
Down syndrome
From his medical records: Elementary thinking processes are observed. He can’t speak but pronounces separate sounds and some syllables. He knows his name and reacts when called. He carries out very elementary orders come here, give me your hand, and lie down. He distinguishes praise and reprimand. He is not oriented for a place and time. His attention is unstable, his memory is mechanic. He gives his hand for a greeting. He walks independently and has good general motorics. The fine motorics are limited. In emotional aspect the child is calm and quiet. He rejoices at the attention he is paid but prefers to play alone. He likes to play with toys by turning them from all sides. He looks at his hands with a great deal of interest and entertains himself by making different movements with them. The child is taken care of entirely by the personnel. The child is included in the project Granny and grandchild and learns how to eat independently. A speech therapist works with the child in order to develop his speech skills. The training how to eat on himself continues.
SINGLE MOMS, OLDER PARENTS, & LARGE FAMILIES WELCOME, EASY TRAVEL
MULTIPLE CHILDREN CAN BE ADOPTED AT THE SAME TIME WITH LOW COST
Andruis (L)
Born December 31, 2000
Down syndrome
Thank God for a new photo and updated info about Andruis! Andruis is a precious little boy who is 12 years old. He is a New Year’s Eve baby, so he brings the promise of great things in every new year!
Andruis has some hearing loss and wears hearing aids. He continuously receives speech and music therapy. As you can see from his photo, he is doing well, but desperately needs a family as he has been living at the institution since 2007.
Andruis attends the 5th grade at the special needs school. He is able to walk/run and is active. He smiles and is affectionate, but shy around people he doesn’t know. He does not have much speech at all, but so much of this is due to his poor hearing. Imagine how is world could open up with improved hearing aids! His entire world, everything he processes, is delayed due to hearing impairment….signing may be the key to opening his whole world. He is able to eat on his own. He needs help with self-care/hygiene. Andruis has SO much potential in a loving family. He’s been waiting SO long and has lost so much time when he should have been at home!
From his medical records: born premature at 35 weeks, 4th pregnancy. Down syndrome, cognitively delayed, cochlear neuritis – hearing impairment. Atopic dermatitis. Hypermetropia on both eyes. FULL MEDICAL RECORDS available upfront.
This is a GREAT country program, with excellent health and social care, and full medical records available upfront. Andruis has been listed with us for many years, it’s his turn to find a family! Interested families should be home study approved (or close to it) to adopt an older institutionalized child and should not have very young children in the home. Experienced adoptive families may be the best fit for Andruis. Please inquire! He is running out of time.
- Married couples only (married at least 2 1/2 years)
- Parents must be 18 years older than child; no more than 50 years old
- Two unrelated children can be adopted together
- Two trips are required
Mikale #38-2
DOB: 2003
Diagnosis: Down syndrome
Mikale has been transferred to a mental institution. He attends a specialized school. He interacts well with other children and does not have any behavior issues. He’s non-verbal, but he understands what is said to him and follows directions that are given to him. He plays appropriately with toys and enjoys blocks most of all. He feeds himself and assists with setting the table and also with cleaning up the toys. He seeks out adults and other people to interact with. He is physically healthy, with no past or current health concerns.
Additional photos and videos from January 2013 are available for interested families.
SINGLE MOMS, OLDER PARENTS, & LARGE FAMILIES WELCOME, EASY TRAVEL. MULTIPLE CHILDREN CAN BE ADOPTED AT THE SAME TIME WITH LOW COST.
Marty #6-7
Boy, born June 2002
Down syndrome, CP
Marty has Down syndrome and at the age of 5 months old was given a diagnosis of CP based on his delayed motor development and horizontal nystagmus (both of these things are common in children with Down syndrome). He is described as a quiet and even-tempered child who has adapted quickly to the routine and daily schedule at the institution. He is able to walk independently. He assists with dressing and undressing himself and is learning to feed himself as well. He goes to the toilet when reminded to do so by the staff. He is not yet speaking but demonstrates understanding and follows basic requests.
He plays with other children and interacts well with adults. He responds to his name and loves attention from the caregivers. He has a special bond with one specific care giver. He loves to play with toys and shows a preference for stuffed animals.
Marty has already been transferred to an institution.
SINGLE MOMS, OLDER PARENTS, & LARGE FAMILIES WELCOME, EASY TRAVEL. MULTIPLE CHILDREN CAN BE ADOPTED AT THE SAME TIME.
Tanner #31-1
Boy, Born July 2001
Main diagnosis: Down Syndrome. Deafness. Converging strabismus. Obstructive and reflux nephropathia.
Lagging behind in his neuro-psychical development.
Lagging behind in his neuro-psychical development.
Michael SN.26
Boy, Born December 7, 2001
Latin America SN.26
Diagnosis: Down syndrome, Hypothyroidism, Language delay, Moderate mental delay
Michael says “HI MOM, do you see me? I’m waiting for you!” Michael is a handsome, happy, and active little boy! He has been blessed to be very loved and well taken care of! But here he is waving to his new mama, wherever she may be! FULL MEDICAL and SOCIAL RECORDS available. Michael is described as very loving and affectionate. He is well adjusted and attached to his caregivers. He is very active and physically capable…a typical boy! He receives therapy regularly and continues to work on his speech. Please consider Michael! His adoption will open doors for so many more children in this wonderful, but small, program!
From his caregivers: Michael attends a school for children with special needs. He has been in the orphanage since he was 2 1/2 years old. Michael is very affectionate and has achieved a certain level of independence. He demonstrates an ability to adapt quickly in various situations and has great capacity to give and receive affection. He is working on improving his pronunciation.
Update Feb 2012: (further records available on development)
He is a child with fast adaptation to new situations, however when he gets confidence and trust to somebody, he has demanding and resistant behavior when somebody don’t do what he wants. The lack of an appropriate way to express his ideas, emotions and thoughts, generates emotions like sadness and frustration; this usually can be manifested in situations who are demanding.
Michael is a happy child, likes to show his affection, affectionate and with big desires of attention. His social development corresponds to mild retardation. In self-reliance activities his performance is independent, for which he only requires slight supervision. In activities which involve expressive and written language he still requires support.
Michael’s country is *beautiful* to visit, and is rich in culture and history. Amazing trip no matter what time of year!
- Single women or married couples, age 25-55
- Both parents, one trip of 4 weeks
- Total cost approx $27,000
Janie
Girl, Born March 8, 2006
So glad to have an updated picture of Janie! She is blessed to still be at the baby house, but she will remain bedridden for the rest of her life is she is transferred.
Janie is a beautiful little girl who struggles with the effects of FAS. She also has CP and some effects of hydrocephaly. She is not able to walk on her own, and will need the loving and patient care of a family to help her achieve her potential.
If you are unfamiliar with FAS, please spend some time researching this condition. Just as with Down syndrome, FAS and FAE have a wide variation of effects on each child, both medically, physically, and cognitively. This is typically dependent on how long during the pregnancy the mother consumed alcohol, and of course, how much. There is no way to know this ahead of time.
Miranda
Girl, Born August 25, 2004
Cerebral Palsy
SIGNIFICANT RISK, PLEASE ADOPT ME SOON!!
What a beautiful little girl! Wispy blonde hair and bright blue eyes! Miranda is healthy and developing well out side of her CP. She is an orphanage favorite. Waiting for more info on her ability to walk/speak, etc.
She has two younger siblings, their status is not known.
She was transferred from her baby home, and still waits for her family. She has been listed for SO long!!
Nastya
Girl, Born July 27, 2005
Nastya was born with spina bifida and minor hydrocephalus. She has had corrective surgery, but is not able to walk. She has already turned 7 and needs a family right away to save her spending the rest of her life bedridden in a mental institution.
PLEASE HELP!
More photos available, please inquire.
Nate
BOY, born August 2006
Nate is a handsome young man! He was born with CP, and has some vision problems as a result of CMV (cytomegalovirus). He has brown hair and big brown eyes. He is not able to walk on his own, but he will truly blossom in a loving family, who can provide the therapy and encouragement he needs. We are hoping to learn if he is being treated for the CMV, but he is asymptomatic at this time.
Jared
Jared (26)
BOY, born May 1, 2007
This handsome young man, with dark hair and dark eyes, was born with a rare genetic condition called Stickler Syndrome. His medical records also indicate microcephaly, a common symptom of SS.
Individuals with Stickler syndrome experience a range of signs and symptoms. Some people have no signs and symptoms; others have some or all of the features described below. In addition, each feature of this syndrome may vary from subtle to severe.
A characteristic feature of Stickler syndrome is a somewhat flattened facial appearance. This is caused by underdeveloped bones in the middle of the face, including the cheekbones and the bridge of the nose. A particular group of physical features, called the Pierre Robin sequence, is common in children with Stickler syndrome. Robin sequence includes a U-shaped or sometimes V-shaped cleft palate (an opening in the roof of the mouth) with a tongue that is too large for the space formed by the small lower jaw. Children with a cleft palate are also prone to ear infections and occasionally swallowing difficulties.
Many people with Stickler syndrome are very nearsighted (described as having high myopia) because of the shape of the eye. People with eye involvement are prone to increased pressure within the eye (ocular hypertension) which could lead to glaucoma and tearing or detachment of the light-sensitive retina of the eye (retinal detachment). Cataract may also present as an ocular complication associated with Stickler’s Syndrome. The jelly-like substance within the eye (the vitreous humour) has a distinctive appearance in the types of Stickler syndrome associated with the COL2A1 and COL11A1 genes. As a result regular appointments to a specialist ophthalmologist are advised. The type of Stickler syndrome associated with the COL11A2 gene does not affect the eye.
People with this syndrome have problems that affect things other than the eyes and ears. Arthritis, abnormality to ends of long bones, vertebrae abnormality, curvature of the spine, scoliosis, joint pain, and double jointedness are all problems that can occur in the bones and joints. Physical characteristics of people with Stickler can include flat cheeks, flat nasal bridge, small upper jaw, pronounced upper lip groove, small lower jaw, and palate abnormalities, these tend to lessen with age and normal growth and palate abnormalities can be treated with routine surgery.
Another sign of Stickler syndrome is mild to severe hearing loss that, for some people, may be progressive (see hearing loss with craniofacial syndromes). The joints of affected children and young adults may be very flexible (hypermobile). Arthritis often appears at an early age and worsens as a person gets older. Learning difficulties, not intelligence, can also occur because of hearing and sight impairments if the school is not informed and the student is not assisted within the learning environment.
Stickler syndrome is thought to be associated with an increased incidence of mitral valve prolapse of the heart, although no definitive research supports this.
Join Us!
ABC NEWS: Hidden Angels
Diane Sawyer reports on the adoption of Mia Cox:
