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The families listed on this page have made it to “the end of the rainbow”. Your sponsorship is most critical now, as their final agency, country, and travel fees are coming due. Your help will make such a huge difference! |
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The families listed on this page have made it to “the end of the rainbow”. Your sponsorship is most critical now, as their final agency, country, and travel fees are coming due. Your help will make such a huge difference! |
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“Really? But your children are all grown up?” A common response when some people hear that the Wagner family are adding their fifth child at the same time their youngest graduates high school. With two adult children who are married and two in college, it seemed crazy that they would become parents at the same time they were being blessed with grandchildren…
It all started with a hosting program in the winter of 2015 that was sponsored by the same agency they used when they adopted their two youngest daughters over 18 years ago. As John and Amy perused all of the photos of available children, they were drawn to “Brooke,” an eight-year-old with Down syndrome. Her personality seemed to jump off the page! They were certain she was the child they were to host and they literally knew of three families who were considering adopting special needs children … so it seemed the advocacy part of hosting would be easy. They felt sure Brooke would have a forever family as a result of the hosting program.
Brooke got off the place from Asia and walked right up to them; grabbing their hands and announcing to everyone that they were her “Mama” and “Baba.” They were instantly in love with her; but still convinced that their role was to find her a family — not be her family. As the month went on, every interested family and actually a few additional families had something happened that blocked their ability to go through the the adoption. All the while, the Wagner family and all of their extended family were falling deeper and depper in love with this previous child. Brooke fit in from the first moment and was the most adaptable and happy child they had ever seen. That is not to say there weren’t trying moments during her weeks in their home; but if they were to used one word to describe Brooke it would be pure JOY! She sang and laughed and entertained from morning to night. Laughter permeated their home, their neighborhood, their church, literally everywhere they took her! When she had to return to Asia, everyone that she had met was sad. Her dance class held a “birthday party for her. Her soon-to-be grandparents cried and all of her soon-to-be siblings and siblings-in-law were heartbroken to watch her go. However, this was not the end … it was the beginning!
The day after Brooke boarded the plane (one of the hardest days ever); they began the paperwork to bring her back to her forever home. Brooke was meant to be a Wagner! Like an actual pregnancy, the process to bring her home took a little more than nine months; but unlike childbirth, the labor pains came through every step of the paper process … yet it will be worth it when they to to bring her home!
What John and Amy thought would be the most difficult part was telling their grown children and their own parents that they would be adding Brooke to their family. They expected their extended family to question their sanity for bringing a child with DS into their lives at a time when most are preparing for an “empty nest.” Surprisingly, not only was everyone accepting of it, they wondered what took John and Amy so long to figure out that they were Brooke’s Mama and Baba.
It has been months of adoption paperwork, prepping of Brooke’s bedroom, meeting with the IEP team at the local elementary school, shopping for clothes and school supplies, and whatever they could do to keep themselves busy during the wait. Now, it is nearly time to travel! We will be there soon, Brooke! Everyone thinks the Wagners are doing some great thing; but they know the truth … it is they who are blessed by the addition of the newest Wagner! Counting the days until you are back at home, Brooke! XOXOXOXO
9/9/2016—TRAVELING SOON
We are a larger family who has been blessed with children through adoption and birth. For some reason the plan for our kids was that they would all have special needs or “unique abilities” as we say in our family. Though it took some adjustment to begin with, today we would could not imagine living life any other way. We realize how much more we have gained and learned by having to learn how to navigate medical and educational settings on a frequent basis. As a family, we have a huge heart and mission for orphans and especially those with special needs.
Though we thought we were done adding more children to our family, God had different plans for us and we are so thankful for that. Patience is aging out in October and we are in the final stretch to bring her home before she ages out. Though her special needs of cerebral Palsy and limited lower mobility is a new one for our family, we all agreed that she was meant for us all along; a perfect match into our busy and at times crazy family.
7/27/2016—DOSSIER SUBMITTED
“Baylee” — Soon to be Norah Jillian We have five biological children, and we’ve adopted six Chinese children. Our two new daughters will make seven and eight adopted children. Before our first adoption, and before our second international adoption, we said goodbye to our two beloved daughters. After our first biological daughter, Stella Rose, died at 5-days-old in October 2010 (as a result of a very rare chromosomal syndrome and multiple birth defects), God opened our eyes to the beauty and value of all children – not just those who were born “perfect.” In December 2012, we adopted our first two Chinese daughters, one with a limb difference and one with severe Congenital Heart Disease. Our younger baby girl, Rose, the one with severe CHD, went to be with the Lord ten months after we brought her home. Her sweet little life moved us to adopt again, and we brought home two more daughters in January 2015. In August 2015, we learned of a brother and sister (one with a limb difference, and one with a very rare chromosomal difference and repaired heart defect) who had originally been adopted from China and whose family decided to dissolve their adoption. We brought them home in October of last year, and they officially became part of our family in December. We feel that God has given us a legacy of loss and love – beauty from ashes – to share with children who need a family to call their own. Even six years ago, we would’ve never dreamed that God would grow our family in this way or to this number, but we praise Him for the each precious child He has entrusted to us. Our story, and our family, is a testimony of His healing, grace, redemption, and provision! 8/25/16—DOSSIER SUBMITTED (LID)
Willy and Ines Wallace live in Fort Myers, Florida. They are the parents of six wonderful children. Their three adult “kids”already out to college and professionals living on their own. Their 3 younger ones are elementary age and keeping them busy and happy!
The Wallace’s have walked the international adoption journey twice before. God has allowed them to witness the heartbreaking reality of these orphans (especially the ones with special needs). The memory of the children left behind will stay with the Wallace’s forever. Although international adoption is hard, long and expensive , Willy and Ines feel that they can’t just close their eyes and ignore the needs of these children.
The Wallace’s need $18,000 to be fully funded. This will cover fees for traveling expenses, in-country lodging as well as transportation , facilitation, paper chasing, etc..
The Wallace family will be eternally grateful for anyone who feels led to help them fund this adoption so they can bring a child to their home and family where he belongs. Sincerely, we Thank You!
9/24/16—APPOINMENT on NOVEMBER 8
Follow The Wallace’s Journey on their blog at onourwaytoyourheart.blogspot.com
Ric and Melissa officially began their adoption process in 2016 but it had been growing in their hearts for many years prior to that. They currently have three girls: 7 ½ year old twins and a 5 ½ year old. “Beau” (or Bobo) was to be hosted by family friends over Christmas and Melissa’s mom hinted that they should adopt him – not even knowing they had begun talking about adoption. God continued to layer this idea with things they read, people they talked with, Adoption Sunday at church… Melissa had been feeling prompted by God to adopt Bobo but it wasn’t what she and Ric had initially talked about. One night they sat and prayed together about adoption and Melissa again mentioned Bobo. Ric’s excitement was immediate and they wrote an email to the host mom. Melissa told him, “The way I’ve been feeling God call me to this, if we send this email I believe Bobo will be our son. Ric reached over her and hit send. As soon as they said yes to God, He immediately put a deep love for this child in their hearts. Over several days of talking and praying with their girls, one of them asked if they were going to adopt Bobo. When they were told yes, their daughter began jumping up and down saying, “Yes! I want Bobo! I want Bobo!” The girls have already grown in their love for their “big brother” and talk about and pray for him daily. Although this is not what they thought their adoption would look like, (is it ever?) Ric and Melissa are ecstatic and loving the journey God is leading them through. They are praying that God goes before them and prepares Bobo’s heart (and theirs) for the transition. They couldn’t be more thrilled and are excited to tell how God has fitted the pieces of this puzzle together so perfectly. Ric and Melissa ask for prayers for wisdom and patience.
9/5/16—DOSSIER EN ROUTE (DTC)
Taylor and Katie Davis are parents to five, soon to be six, adorable, amazing children ages 10 and under. They have been married for 11 years and family is their focus and greatest joy in life. Their family has already been blessed and forever changed for the better by the adoption of a sweet, energetic, three-year- old (now 5) little boy from Hong Kong in 2014. They are so excited to be on this journey again to adopt little “Michael” — soon to be named Louie! — and have him become a part of their family forever.
Louie’s soon to be big brothers and big sisters are anxiously awaiting his arrival and are so ready, along with Mom and Dad, to welcome him into their hearts. Katie and Taylor are in awe of the plan and path that their lives have taken and so grateful to be blessed with one more little one to love and care for. This family is so excited to make it through the long, sometimes trying, adoption process and bring little brother home, and they are very thankful for any support, donations, and prayers in their behalf.
8/5/16—DOSSIER SUBMITTED (LID)
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at tkdavis.blogspot.com
The Masse family completed their first adoption in June of 2015 but knew even before they left that this was not the end of the story. After having 5 children Jeff and Julie felt like maybe their family was complete, or was it? Married in 2000, they had occasionally talked about the possibility of adopting one day. It wasn’t until they saw a video advocating for orphans in China that they really began to seriously discuss the possibility that God was calling them to adopt. As they prayed about it, God used the parable of the Good Samaritan to confirm that a little girl with special needs in an orphanage somewhere in China was indeed their neighbor – and more than that – their daughter! God placed a desire in their hearts to love their “neighbor” by adopting a child into their family, loving her unconditionally and without any expectations.
The process to adopt their daughter Lila took about 15 months and they arrived home in June 2015 with their precious girl. But all through the process as they became more involved in the adoption community they were struck by the tremendous need!! There are many orphan statistics and the sheer numbers can be staggering but as David Platt has said, “Orphans are easier to ignore before you know their names. They are easier to ignore before you see their faces. It is easier to pretend they’re not real before you hold them in your arms. But once you do, everything changes.” The Masses began to see the faces, hear the stories and realized that there was more they could do! Their transition home with their daughter was going very well, so after a few months they began praying and seeking who God would have them adopt. Through many circumstances they were led to the file of sweet Tessa, a beautiful 2 year old girl with an extra chromosome and lots of extra love to give!
Jeff and Julie and their children can’t wait to have Tessa home to be part of their family forever! Thank you so much for helping them in their adoption journey!
8/15/16—LOA RECVD, HOPE TO TRAVEL IN OCTOBER
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at masseadoption.blogspot.com
Hello from the Land family! Jeff and Cassandra met online through a Christian dating website and have now been married almost eleven years. They chose to wait to have children until their finances were more settled. Jeff has pursued his career passion, computers, and is a work at home Solutions Architect. Cassandra is a homemaker, thrilled to be able to devote her time and attention to family and home.
Both Jeff and Cassandra love older children, so after much prayer and discussion, they decided to adopt an older child. Jeff and Cassandra found Cin-Ru’s profile on their agency’s waiting child website. Cin-Ru, a 14-year-old girl, was adopted from Taiwan in 2015. Her listed special need was ADHD and scoliosis. But what they found once home is that Cin-Ru’s greatest need is the love of a family.
Jeff and Cassandra have always dreamed of a large family and so eagerly applied to adopt a second girl. The family found “Layla’s” profile on a Facebook advocacy page. “Layla” is a 13-year-old girl whose special need is cerebral palsy. However, like Cin-Ru, her greatest need is the love of a family. The Land family wants to provide that. They want to give both their daughter at home and their future daughter a safe and loving family environment so that the girls can heal from everything that life has thrown at them and help them develop into healthy and happy young women.
Jeff and Cassandra are excited that they will soon have a second daughter. And Cin-Ru is very excited about having a sister and keeps asking when her sister will be allowed to come home!
8/18/16—LOA RECEIVED
Adam and Carin first saw Dex’s picture in April of 2012. They had just decided to start the process of adopting a child with Down Syndrome from China and Dex’s file was the first they ever saw. Carin instantly fell in love with his chubby cheeks, crooked smile and droopy eye. Through events out of their control, they were not able to pursue the adoption of Dex and instead they adopted their daughter Pearl in May of 2013. Another daughter, Molly, joined the family through adoption in August of 2015. But Dex still waited to be chosen. In December of 2015, the family began praying for a family for Dex. Two months later, God revealed that Adam and Carin were to be his family. They are grateful and humbled that after 5 years of waiting, Dex, who they will name Samuel, will have a mom and dad, 4 sisters and 2 brothers! They also know that a way is being prepared ahead of them— emotionally, spiritually and financially. They have no fear, only love for this little boy. God has and will provide all and more than their family needs to bring him home.
8/16/16—AWAITING LOA
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at diplofam.com
As a teenager Caroline spent a great deal of time overseas doing volunteer work with children (mostly special needs and medically fragile). At age 20, after a lengthy process, she was able to obtain Humanitarian Parole for a child she had worked with in Romania who had serious medical needs that needed to be addressed. Raul was born with severe Recessive Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa. She later received permanent guardianship, and Raul received a green card, enabling to stay in the U.S. with Caroline. Last Fall Raul underwent a bone marrow transplant, and unfortunately passed away due to complications this past Spring.
Caroline felt that having Raul in her life had been 100% worth any amount of heartache, and that she would have done it 100 times over to have had these years with him. Before Raul passed, Caroline heard of another little boy in Eastern Europe with severe EB that was in need of a home. She knew at that time that she could not bring him home, but hoped he would find a family that could bring him home quickly!
After Raul passed away, Caroline found out that no other families had come forward for “Travis”, and felt that she had the unique experience necessary to adopt such a medically fragile child. She had had five years of knowledge about Epidermolysis Bullosa, and knew she could get “Travis” the care he desperately needed. She is now working to get “Travis” home as fast as possible, and is looking forward to meeting him soon!
9/23/16—HOPE TO TRAVEL IN OCTOBER
The McQuinn family have 3 biological children, two of whom have a terminal muscle wasting disease called Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). Their strong love and dreams for their children made it impossible to say “No” when they discovered the situations around the world involving disabled orphans. They didn’t want to believe the statistics and information they were reading could be true. It seemed that the more they researched the more their hearts broke. Amanda says, “knowing my children’s amazingness and strong will for life helps us not recognize them as disabled, we see OUR KIDS not their disability and we strive to give them a very meaningful life.” What led them to adopt ultimately was when they came across a child listed on Reece’s Rainbow. They knew instantly he was their son. The only reason to say no would have been because of funding issues but they will not let that stop them. Shortly after their commitment to Ricky they found Elizabeth. They waited and waited for a family to come for the precious beauty who shares the same disease as their bio’s. As their adoption for Ricky progressed, their love for Elizabeth grew, and knowing about her disease they knew they couldn’t leave her there to die alone. So they says “yes” to both … “we will come for you.”
8/31/16—DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Follow their journey at lovemakesusstronger.blogspot.com
When the market crashed, the Solano family lost their house; were homeless with 3 kids, 2 dogs and a Camry for 2 months. Talk about crazy! They went from owning 5 properties to homeless in the blink of an eye. Amazing, wonderful people took them in and cared for them.
Losing everything makes one stop and reevaluate; starting over they are investing their lives into what will last forever.
That experience makes one ever so grateful for a roof over your head, food on the table and a vehicle to get to work. There are so many that don’t have what we take for granted. Even in their worst time they were safer, better fed and more loved than the least of these.
These children are dying without a family; alone, no one to hold them, comfort them, abandoned, rejected by the world. They are so precious in God’s eyes. The Solano family adopted a child with no worth in her culture, made her their own, an heir,
equal, a daughter, her ransom paid. To say it has been a profound experience is an understatement. It is a privilege to live life with her. They did it once, it was the best thing they’ve ever done, and it’s time to do it again.
To rescue 2, they need more than a year’s salary. They have only until August to raise it. Even saving every penny possible (which they are), it’s not possible for them to do on their own.
Adoption – some may call it foolish and impossible but for every orphan rescued it’s a miracle. Please help them make a difference for 2 more. Any donation would be helpful. Even if you cannot give, please forward their message.
Together we’ll make a difference that lasts forever.
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://jadesjourneyakadarla.blogspot.com/
8/15/16—WAITING FOR TRAVEL DATES
Hugh & Rachael Lynn have been married for 16 years and have been blessed with four soon to be five children. Three children were born into their family and they were blessed by adopting their daughter with cerebral palsy a year and a half ago from China.
The desire to adopt again has been very strong for their family and God showed them another daughter with cerebral palsy that needed a family. The Lynn family have Pre Approval to proceed with adopting Audrey.
Audrey is a ten year old little girl with cerebral palsy. Audrey has grown up in an orphanage seeing others around her being adopted and has waited too long for a family to call her own. Hugh and Rachael feel God leading them to go and bring her home. The Lynn’s are stepping out in faith that God will provide for this adoption.
The Lynn’s have a Facebook page that follows their journey of adoption called Anticipating Ava + Audrey.
8/31/16—DOSSIER SUBMITTED (LID)
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their Facebook page called Anticipating Ava + Audrey.
Robert and Serenity Andrews met while attending a Bible college in 2004. Their backgrounds could not have been more different – Robert was from the Midwest and former US Army soldier, Serenity was a child of a missionary family, who lived all over the US and in several countries including China – but they soon became close friends and were married three years later. Right from the beginning, God put the desire to adopt in their hearts. After having a biological daughter the desire to adopt was still very much there. Through a mutual friend and their adoption of a young special needs boy, Robert and Serenity were introduced to Reece’s Rainbow. Robert began reading the stories of those waiting to be adopted. When the profile for Chazz came across the screen, it was as if at that moment Robert knew that this was his son. He sent the web address to Serenity without saying anything more. Her response was “let’s do it.” God’s hand was definitely in this because when the adoption agency was contacted Robert and Serenity were told that Chazz was spoken for. They were both disappointed and yet happy that this beautiful child was going to a loving home. Days later Serenity was contacted by the adoption agency who explained that if she and Robert were still interested he could be their son. Of course Robert and Serenity said yes and now are on the long journey of meetings, phone calls and paperwork with the ultimate goal of bringing their son home.
8/15/16—AWAITING TRAVEL DATES
Jeff and Tammy Jarrett are so excited to be growing their family again! This time with 2 little ones from Asia!
Jeff and Tammy were high school sweethearts and got married while they attended college. They have 3 biological boys, but always felt God was calling them to adopt. In 2008 they completed their first adoption and brought Jasmine home from China. Jasmine is legally blind and in bringing her home, the Jarrett’s lives have been completely changed.
In 2010 the Jarretts went back to China and brought home Jewel. Jewel was born without eyes and has multiple other disabilities. The Jarretts don’t like to look at her disabilities though. They believe that children with special needs shouldn’t be defined by the things they can’t do, but rather by what they can. To the Jarretts, Jewel is the happiest person they have ever met. She laughs all of the time and loves everyone. Jewel is an inspiration to anyone who has gotten to know her.
The Jarretts have prayed, asking God to lead them to adopt again if that is his plan for their lives. They KNOW that God loves ALL children and are so excited to announce that God has answered their prayers and they will be adding 2 more children to their family!
Annabelle, who the Jarretts will name Teagan, has been the Jarrett’s daughter in their hearts for a long time. They have prayed persistently for her for and are so blessed to FINALLY be able to bring her home and make her a loved daughter, and sister. Annabelle is already so deeply loved by her forever family!!
The Jarretts are also excited to announce that they will be bringing home Joey, a precious 6 year old boy with Down Syndrome. Joey has attended the Bring Me Hope Camp in China, and those who have met him say he one of the most loving boys. He loves bubbles and playing in the sand. They can’t wait to make Joey a part of their growing family.
The Jarretts are adopting on a complete leap of faith, and trust that God will provide for them financially. They also know that a lot of times God provides for his children through other people! If you feel led to give toward their adoption, please know that it will be SO appreciated!!
8/4/16—LOA RECVD
FULLY FUNDED!!!
Follow the family’s adoption journey at www.jarrettfamilyadoption.blogspot.com
Ben and Brandi Cantrell have always known that they would adopt. After each of their biological children they talked about adopting. After their fourth biological child, they adopted domestically. When he was just a few months old, Brandi felt like they were supposed to adopt again. This time, a child with special needs. Ben wasn’t on board just yet to adopt a child who has down syndrome. Brandi saw a little girl on a waiting child page and felt like that she was suppose to find out about this little girl. Brandi showed Ben. Shortly after, the kids started playing basketball for the season. There were two kids playing and cheering. Ben had never been around a child who had down syndrome. Brandi saw him watching the two kids closely. Shortly after, Ben told Brandi, that he thought they were suppose to adopt the little girl that Brandi saw on the waiting child page, that has down syndrome. Ben and Brandi and their five children are so excited to bring home Sarah Jane, later this year. Any donations, are greatly appreciated!
8/8/16—DOSSIER SUBMITTED (LID)
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://ilovemylifeasawifeandmommy.blogspot.com
Our Family Puzzle
So here we are, at the beginning of a journey to add another child to our family. This time will be different. This time I won’t be pregnant for nine months. This time I won’t hold my baby for nine months and dream about seeing her face for the first time. This time we already know what she looks like. This time we already know her name and her birthday. This time we will watch her grow up from afar for a year or more while we work tirelessly to bring her home.
We are the Ford Family. My name is Alysen. I am a stay at home mom. My husband is police officer and we are raising two children currently; we have a precious three year old girl and a little boy who will soon be eight months old. And now we have another little girl. She is waiting on us in S.E. Asia. She is two years old and she also happens to be blind. She is perfect in every way, and we are very proud parents!
One night after our oldest daughter was born my husband and I were watching the documentary “Its a Girl.” That kind of thing has a way of popping your safe little bubble and opening your eyes to how the Lord has blessed you. Then it gets you thinking, why has he blessed us with more than we need, and so many opportunities? We are no more deserving than anyone else in the world. EXACTLY. “For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required” Luke 12:48 We talked about adopting that day.
We decided we would look into it when we were more stable. It was the Lord preparing our hearts. Our sweet little two year old was born right around that time. Fast forward about two years and we are in a new town, my husband has a good job, and we have purchased our first home. We started attending a new church here locally and noticed lots of adoptive families. I even started getting involved in some fundraising efforts for adoption and slowly we pulled our heads out if the sand and remembered that first whisper from God telling us to adopt. We started looking into programs and agencies and the Lord led us to our daughter. “God sets the lonely in families” Psalm 68:6. Our little girl deserves a family. She deserves a mommy and a daddy to hold her, and teach her about the love our heavenly Father has for her, and to help her make her mark on this word.
So here we are. We are paper chasing and fundraising and praying for the Lords guidance and help to bring us to our baby. We cannot wait to hold our sweet girl and have our family of five all together forever!
9/15/16—OFFICIAL MATCH RECVD, HOPE TO TRAVEL IN NOVEMBER
We are a family of 8, soon to be 10.
I’d like to tell a little story if I could so please bear with me. A month or so before Xavier went into the hospital Andrew and I had come to the conclusion that we were going to go back to China. It had been 2 years since the boys came home and everyone was healthy and calm. We had our schedules down, we weren’t scheduled for any surgeries, the kids were rocking in school. We were a family of 8.
It was time. And so we started the paperwork for a special someone who has been in my heart since I started advocating 4 years ago. And then Xavier went into the hospital.
And the world stopped turning. It never crossed my mind in that first week and even into the second week that we wouldn’t be leaving the hospital with him. He had pneumonia. RSV. That was it. Lots of kids get it. We would just get through this, go home, obsess over the medical bills and quietly panic every winter when the other kids got sick. And then it started getting weird. They started pulling in specialists from every department to try and figure out what was going on. Heart, kidneys, genetics, autoimmunity, GI, and on and on. And even when his kidneys failed and they put him on the ECMO machine, I lived in denial. He was coming home and worst case scenario was that we would have to do dialysis short term. My husband allowed me to live there because it kept me sane. And best case was that we now had every department on board and we would finally be able to figure out why he wasn’t growing, why he wasn’t thriving… Something I had been working to get since he came home! And frankly denial is a good place to live in when your head is telling you one thing but your heart won’t listen. Life without my guy just wasn’t an option. We had always known he wouldn’t have a long life like the other kids, but two years?? TWO YEARS?? No. Not happening! And so we fought. And fought. And God let us fight. We had hope. It was a daily roller coaster. Sometime hourly. And just when we had climbed the mountain and could see the other side (the lungs were clearing and they were going to slow down dialysis), we found the spot on his cheek. And then they realized that the spot on his hand had grown 10x larger within a day. And we fell back down the mountain never to find our footing again. We prayed, we cried. I made deals with God. So many deals. Anything to not lose my son. Anything to take him home with me. Please just don’t take him. Give me another 2 years with him. Another 6 months. Anything but now.
And everything was quiet. He was still.
We came to a point where we knew we had done everything we could. We had a meeting with all the doctors and they said the same. And so we made the decision to end life support. It was the hardest thing I will ever do. Ever. Even once the decision was made in my mind, it was getting the words out. Because once it’s said…
I kept wondering how I got here. We just came in for pneumonia. A cold. And now we were having to say goodbye? How could that be? But as painful as it was, I was at peace. I don’t know how that could be, but I was. I knew we weren’t alone. We felt the prayers, I felt my Grandma close by, my best friend, Kim, my MIL. I go through so many emotions every day. I cry, I laugh, I hide. I keep expecting to see him when I enter the kitchen, when I go into his room in the morning to wake up Ethan. And I miss him so much. Sometimes my heart aches because I miss him so much.
In those moments I have to remind myself that our lives aren’t over and his has just begun. And that is my one comfort. I WILL see him again. I know I will. And I know he is whole now. He is running and jumping and laughing and singing. And as someone pointed out to me, he is pointing down at me from heaven and telling people “That’s my mommy and she loves me so much!”
It’s crazy to think that all roads lead back to adoption. We took a beautiful risk when we adopted him and we have been forever blessed because of it. In fact, so many people have been blessed because of Xavier. The messages and letters I have received from people saying that they are going into nursing, physical therapy, missionary work, advocating, special needs teaching and so on because of Xavier has been incredible! We’ve seen it in our own children. My Maeve is set on becoming a special needs teacher because of her love for him. To think that our son was on this earth for 5 short years and he accomplished more than some do in their entire lives. He has changed lives for the better and all because of his smile, his innocence, his love of life, his will to live. And so I will continue to advocate for orphans in his name. And we will continue to adopt as God sees fit. We will continue to bring children home, whether into our family or by helping others, because that is what life is all about. Moving forward. Bringing families to children. James 1:27 “To look after orphans and widows in their distress.”
And so with that being said, yes, we do have an announcement. We are continuing our paperwork and bringing home two children. Yes, two. We had started the paperwork for one but when Xavier passed away we felt like we could now give this second one the attention and medical that was needed. A child that I wouldn’t have dared to bring home in my past life. And so we are bringing home two. We need prayers. We need prayers for calm, for peace, for certainty. The children are excited for their new siblings and I think this will really help with the healing process. Because of Xavier’s special needs, no child is now a “special need”. They are a child. And so whatever the future brings, it brings hope. It brings family. They will both have family and we are so excited!
9/15/16—LOA RECVD, HOPE TO TRAVEL IN OCTOBER
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://followingtheredthreadtoscarlett.blogspot.com/
The Hadley’s adoption journey is the culmination of a long awaited heart’s desire. Jon and Kari had discussed adopting or fostering multiple times. However, God was clear that the time was never right either through multiple military moves and deployments or Kari’s numerous (4) pregnancies. Then after the birth of their 4th son, Kari began to look for ways to use her love of running to help children in need. It was during the registration for the Walt Disney World Marathon that Kari found RODS (Racing for Orphans with Down Syndrome). Kari has always had a heart and passion for children and adults with Down Syndrome and a longing to maybe one day adopt a special needs child. Partnering with RODS allowed Kari to use her running in advocacy and awareness for children that captured her heart. Kari was glad she was helping a child with Down Syndrome find a forever home. When Kari joined RODS, Laura was not the RODS Orphan. Shortly after joining RODS, Laura became the new RODS Orphan. Kari immediately felt a draw towards Laura but it was a few months before she really began to try to find out more about her. Kari soon began to feel that God was directing her toward Laura but did not know how Jon would feel about an international special needs adoption. Jon was certainly surprised when Kari suggested that they adopt Laura. Jon requested Kari get more information on the process and Laura and from there things just took off. Every question asked was answered in a way that led Jon and Kari to feel that this was what they were called to do. All the information they could find on Laura only confirmed for Kari that she was the daughter God was giving them. Kari and Jon are now trying to bring Laura home in record time to join her four anxiously awaiting brothers.
7/19/16—USCIS APPROVED; DOSSIER EN ROUTE
We arrived home with Adhu from India on July 17, 2015 after a long, faith-shaking process. We thought we were done – our family was complete.
Big sister, new little brother, father and mother were settling into our new normal. We were bonding and getting ready to live our lives as a family of four.
But God had plans that we could not forsee. Plans bigger than us, plans for another child in need – of a family, of a future. Please pray for our family as we step out in faith once again.
Big sister, Big brother – waiting for “Mickey”.
7/13/16—DOSSIER SUBMITTED (LID)
Follow the family’s adoption journey at http://and-now-there-is-a-third.blogspot.com
Russ and Jody met in a blind date. They hit it off right away and were married nine months later. After two years of marriage they were blessed with a son, Jakob. Jakob was a preemie and had five holes in his little heart. It was a tough two years but Jakob overcame all obstacles. Russ and Jody knew they wanted more children, so they became foster parents in 2003. When their first foster child went home it left them feeling sad and their home felt very empty. So Russ and Jody made the decision to adopt internationally. In 2005, they brought their 9 month old son, Joshua home from Guatemala. Life was good, over the next ten years Russ and Jody added four more children – Julia, Jenna, Jordan and Jaxson – all of them adopted through Foster Care.
They were feeling complete. But God has a great sense of humor and a different plan for the Navratil family. You see, Jody’s father passed away the previous year, they were very close. One night in July Jody’s father came to her in a dream and told her; “Jody, your family is not complete.” Jody was a bit stunned and laughed it off and thought it was just a crazy dream. But, then her dad began bringing her a little girl every night in her dreams. Jody began researching adoption again but was not ready to share all this to her husband as Jody was afraid he would say, no way. Then one day Russ asked Jody if she felt like their family was complete because he didn’t and felt they should adopt again. Jody was thrilled, so she began searching a little harder and then one night she came across the little girl in her dreams! This little girl was Clover. Jody was in tears and over joyed. Jody shared the picture with her nine year old daughter, Julia. When Julia saw the picture she says, “that’s my sister!” When shared with Russ after work they all knew she was meant to be a part of the Navratil family.
Russ, Jody and their six children can’t wait to get her home where she will be loved unconditionally and will be a part of a forever family. As it says in John 14:18 “I will not leave you orphans I will come to you” God has not abandoned us, he has called us by name and through his sacrifices we are called chosen and adopted by God.
Won’t you consider a donation, so Clover can be an orphan no more and know the love of a family. No amount is too small. If you are unable to support financially please keep the Navratil family in your prayers. Thank you.
9/14/16—LOA RECVD, WAITING FOR TRAVEL DATES
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at journeytojazlyn.blogspot.com
Hi! We’re the Pattersons. We’ve been married for 22 years (Wow, time flies!) and currently have five children. Our two oldest are in college, our next two are in high school and our youngest is in fourth grade. Two years ago we adopted our youngest, Joseph (Igor on Reece’s Rainbow) from Ukraine. The past two years have been challenging but SO rewarding.
For over a year we have wanted to adopt again. When we saw Vienna’s picture on Reece’s Rainbow we were so excited! We had been praying about who our next child would be and hoping that we could adopt a little girl with Arthropryposis. Joseph was born with Arthropgryposis and we have become quite familiar with the ins and outs of the medical procedures and therapies that are necessary. So, when we inquired about Vienna and were accepted to pursue her adoption we were thrilled! Despite the unknowns, we are ready to plow through the paperwork to bring our little girl home as soon as possible!!
We appreciate your prayers and support so much as we begin this journey.
3/13/16—DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at hiskindness.wordpress.com
Meet Randy and Angela Dawn Patrick who are a family of 8 soon to be 9! Their children range from 5 years old to 22 years old and have became theirs through birth and adoption.Their latest adoption being a very frail almost 5 years old little girl who weighed a mere 9lbs on adoption day but has truly thrived and blossomed into a chubby happy healthy girl. They have been so blessed by her international adoption that they felt led to begin the process again and happened to stumble upon a little girl with a very scary diagnosis of a brain injury at birth and although this is all new territory and they are scared they trust God to guide them through this and on if the best things that they believe is a true sign is their newest daughter who will be named Audrina has the same birthday as their first internationally adopted daughter only 4 years later a true as they call it Godwink she is coming into the family she was meant to join! They will rely on the support of many to bring home their daughter and will be forever grateful for all those that help make adoption possible through these grants!
9/8/16—HOPE TO TRAVEL IN OCTOBER
Since before they met, Josh and Susan knew adoption was in their future. After 10 years of marriage and a beautiful 4 year old daughter (Hazel), they wondered where God was going to lead their family. They felt God calling them to make several big changes in their lives that didn’t quite make sense, until they laid eyes on Zayne. A friend shared his info on Facebook and said, “I’m going to speak up for this young fella again. He is so cute and he really needs a family very soon. If you’ve ever considered international adoption for even one second, please look at this sweet pea and ask the Lord if he is yours.”
The thing was, the Fowlers hadn’t really considered international adoption, and also hadn’t considered a child with special needs. But one look at Zayne’s picture changed all that. They also quickly realized that his medical needs are similar to those that Josh had as a child (but more severe). They decided to take a day and pray about it, but after about 10 minutes realized that a day was too long to wait and they jumped headfirst into the adoption process.
Five months later their dossier was submitted and now they wait for approval and travel dates! Once Zayne is home, he’ll need a major surgery to connect his esophagus to his stomach, at which point he’ll learn to eat. Thankfully the Fowlers live close to an excellent children’s hospital.
The Fowlers are over the moon excited to welcome Zayne into their family, and have a wonderful support system in their community! They’re surrounded by other adoptive families and great medical teams close by—everyone is thrilled to bring Zayne home!
7/30/16—DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Follow the family’s journey on their blog at campaignforzane.wordpress.com
Jeremy and Heather Fillmore began their adoption adventure in 2010. At the time, they had five children, ages 1-14. Heather had always had a heart for adoption, but when she found Reece’s Rainbow on the internet, she was hooked. Seeing all of those precious, “discarded gems” changed her forever. A few days later, she found Tatiana’s photo and knew that she was meant to be their daughter. Tatiana (now named Anya) was five years old and lived in a Russian orphanage because she has Down syndrome. The world of adoption and special needs was new to this family, but they instinctively knew that this less traveled, beautiful road is one that God had planned for them. Anya joined their family almost a year later.
Two years later, they returned to Russia for another little angel. Hazel stepped off the plane on December 24, 2012. It turns out that a few days later, a law was passed in Russia that halted all adoptions of Russian orphans by Americans. The Fillmores are humbled by their Christmas miracle of 2012 and often think about all of their girls’ friends who were left behind and are hopeful things will change someday soon.
There is a Chinese Proverb that says, “An invisible red thread connects those who are destined to meet, regardless of time, place or circumstance. The thread will stretch and tangle, but it will never break.” Jeremy and Heather are feeling this thread gently guide them to a sweet little boy. They can make another spot at the dinner table, get one more bed, and drive two cars to go to Grandma’s. Their hands are never too full for a child in need. Their kids have experienced first-hand, the joy that comes from watching a little person take their place in their busy family, then literally come to life before their eyes. They are elated that Liam will get to join in the fun! He has mild hydrocephalus and this adoption will not only give him the opportunity for good medical care, but also the gift of seven doting brothers and sisters and a Mom and Dad who will love and cherish him forever. Every child, no matter where they are born, or what needs they have, deserve the love of a family. Every child needs to feel precious, valued and treasured.
International adoption is very costly. Your donation will help Liam to have this gift…one that he will not receive from a family in his own country. The Fillmores thank you from the bottom of their hearts for any amount that you can share for the cause.
Update: the Fillmores will also be adding Louie to their family!
9/23/16—USCIS APPROVED, HOPE TO TRAVEL IN NOVEMBER
Nathan and Amber have been together exactly half their lives. After all these years, their family is nearly complete (for real this time…). They have five children, ages 12, 9, 9, 9, and 5—the last two through Reece’s Rainbow. Their oldest is a precious daughter and budding paleontologist. Next are boy/girl twins adopted domestically who each plan to have their name in lights some day! Their inquisitive little guy came home from China in 2014, and their little sunshine girl home from Ukraine in 2012. The youngest daughter also has Down syndrome and is/was the only one without a roommate…
With multiple special needs amongst their five, their house is busy and loud and crazy and happy. They THOUGHT they were done…. And then they saw her. The timing seemed crazy, so when God whispered, they tried to argue with Him! He got louder. In an instant, it was clear that this was His call. Accepting and obeying sent a rush of peace and a gush of excitement for their newest daughter! They cannot wait to have this little girl in their arms and watch her blossom in family life, becoming everything she was created to be.
8/25/16—DOSSIER SUBMITTED; AWAITING LOA
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at growingwests.blogspot.com
The Bison family lives in North Carolina and is excited to be growing their family through adoption again! John and Heidi have two biological children, Ariauna and Jaeden (ages 15 and 13) and adopted Grace (age 9) in March of 2015. Grace has a diagnosis of Down Syndrome as does their new son!
John and Heidi first heard the Lord’s calling on their life in February of 2014 to grow their family through special needs adoption. The Bison family had no idea just what that would look like or how much it would impact their life. But they are blessed beyond measure with their three children at home and can not wait to add their son to the family!
John and Heidi covet your prayers on their behalf as they journey through this adoption process and especially for their waiting son!
“For we walk by faith and not by sight” 2 Cor. 5:7
9/6/16—LOA RECVD
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog
Joe and Hannah are specifically hoping to adopt a child with special-needs. Their youngest child has several special-needs of his own, including prematurity (born at 26 weeks) and Down Syndrome. They have already learned so much through caring for their son, who is now 4 years old, and therefore feel as though they are equipped to take on the responsibility of caring for another special little blessing. Joe and Hannah also have a 7 year old daughter and a 5 year old son.
Both of them want to add to their family. They had talked about adoption before they even had biological children, so they knew it was always something they wanted to do. They had always dreamed of having a large family and when they realized Hannah would no longer be able to have more biological children (Hannah had to have an emergency hysterectomy at the age of 23), they knew that we were meant to adopt! They love kids and feel as though their family is not yet complete. Adoption is the perfect option for them! They have the space, the time, the desire, and most importantly, the love to give. Adoption has become a passion and a calling for their family.
Many people have asked Joe and Hannah “why are you choosing to adopt?” To them, the reason is simple – because their hearts are telling them to!
Joe and Hannah have open hearts and arms and look forward to adding an addition to their family.
6/6/16—DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at thentherewas6.blogspot.com
Glory is a two year old little girl with so much life to live. She suffers from chronic brain hemorrhage and cerebral atrophy. The Knapp family is working diligently to bring her home for much needed treatment, so that she can live a life full of love and family.
John and Takisha Knapp have been married for nearly 13 years. They have five children, two via adoption and three biological. This is their second adoption, they adopted two children with Down syndrome five years ago. The whole Knapp family is looking forward to adopting Glory from Africa. Just last year John became a saved man, and they have thrown themselves into various local and international ministries, working together as a family to reach out to those in need.
They thank you for your support and would covet your prayers for their journey, for Glory to make it home in time for the necessary medical intervention, and for her recovery.
9/21/16—HOPE TO TRAVEL IN DECEMBER
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at dailybeginagains.com
Jairo and Katie met at a race put on by their University. They quickly became friends through their shared love of endurance sports and love for God. Fast forward a few years and they were happily married and settled into their respective careers and excited to welcome their first baby Oliver. Shortly after Oliver was born, they began to seriously talk about adding to their family through adoption. Adoption was not a new topic for Jairo (who is adopted) and Katie, as they had previously discussed the possibility of adding to their family through adoption one day. Both felt strongly that “one day” was now and this resulted in the adoption of their beautiful and spunky daughter Anna from the foster care system. As often happens, once a family’s eyes are opened to the amazing gift of adoption and the enormous need, the Flores family once again felt that they were being called to love another little one through the process of adoption. This time China and this time a sweet little one with Down Syndrome. Oliver (5 years old) and Anna (2 years old) share the excitement of their parents in welcoming this new addition. Anna asks on a daily basis “sissy almost home?” Soon little one…soon!
9/1/16—LOA RECVD
Manny and Lynn have been together for 13 years. They have a family of 4 adult children, Manny, Fatima, Angie, Yudith, a teenager, Aly, and a preteen, Rebeka. Rebeka has Down syndrome. They love all their children equally, but having a child with Down syndrome forever changed their lives. Lynn had always wanted to adopt, but shortly after Becky was born they both knew they would adopt a child with Down syndrome.
Manny is an automotive technician. Lynn is an office assistant for their church. She is also a full time student, just a few classes from a degree in Psychology. They own a business and work to provide a future for their family.
Lynn is the eternal optimist. Manny is the realist. For years she’s been showing Manny pictures of children on Reece’s Rainbow and praying about the day they would adopt. Manny kept saying, it’s not time, one day, “I’ll pray their families find them.” One night a friend posted a picture of a gorgeous girl on RR. As the couple looked at the picture and read her story, the tears started flowing. The next day Manny wanted to know when they could “go get their girl!”
This is how the Fleites family found Jenny. Her smile grabbed at their hearts. They decided to keep on praying and take the chance. If God meant it to be their path, it would happen. And happen it did!
Jenny, soon to be Lucy, has no other known medical concerns. She lives with foster parents and seems happy and cheerful. In videos, she is always smiling, singing and dancing. Her family is anxious to have her join them! Her room is prepared, her siblings are ready to spoil her, and her parents are counting down the days.
Every step has been slow and steady. Every financial deadline has been a testament to God’s faithfulness. Almost every step has been fully paid with donations so far. The blessings keep coming! They have met so many amazing people that have been on this journey. They still have $28,000 to go, but the burning desire to bring their daughter home propels them forward!
They are very grateful for the support they have received and thank you in advance for your support! They covet your prayers and for you to share their story!
9/5/16—LOA RECVD, WAITING FOR TRAVEL DATES
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at: punkymonkeychronicles.blogspot.com
Nora and Patrick Tomasik have been married for ten years, and have three biological children, Patrick 9, Caden 6, and Eli 2. Family is always the first priority for the Tomasik family, and the only thing they put above family is God. Nora had prayed for years for God to use her in His way, and to have the blessing of glorifying Him. That chance came when she stumbled upon Reece’s Rainbow, and in particular Kory. Although the thought of adopting a child had never occurred to either Patrick or Nora, once they saw Kory, they knew that he needed a home.
Kory, a beautiful boy in Eastern Europe that just happened to have Down syndrome. A beautiful gift from God, who simply needed the love and support of a mother and father. Nora could not get this small boy out of her head. Daily the thought of him hit her over the head. While at dinner with her family, she thought of Kory, at the zoo, thoughts of Kory, at the library, thoughts of Kory. What was Kory doing now? What was life like for him in that orphanage? What kinds of activities was he missing out on every single day of his life? How will he reach his full potential without the supports and therapies that he needs? There were many heartfelt conversations between Nora and Patrick. Was this God’s plan? How could they possibly afford it? How would they get others to understand why they were perusing the adoption? All of those questions, without any real answers. Doubt and worry started to enter their minds.
Sitting in church one day, their Pastor started to talk about God being the leader of your life, and that he had plans for your life. Plans that would glorify Him. Plans that you would prosper and not fail. This conversation spoke to the Tomasiks. This was what they needed to hear. God had a plan for them, this adoption was His plan for them. God WILL find the way for them to prosper in this endeavor. Kory had been given what he needed from God, the love and strength of a family in a northern suburb of Illinois. Parents willing to put in the work, effort, worry, tears, and strength to proceed through the process, even with so many obstacles in the way.
Will you help the Tomasik family follow through God’s plan? Will your family help bring another family together forever? Can you help Kory come home?
9/8/16—WAITING FOR TRAVEL DATES
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://noratomasik.blogspot.com
Robert, Elizabeth, and their children are a loud, vivacious, always-busy family of eight. Robert and Elizabeth met as young teenagers at their local shopping mall. Their first encounter, at the Blockbuster music store, consisted of Elizabeth questioning Robert with, “What are you listening to?” And his enduring reply, “Skee-Lo”. It was a genuine alignment of the stars.
In 2001, at the ages of 20 and 18, Robert and Elizabeth were married. A year and a half later they had their first biological child and then, one by one (except the last two… they came together!), five more followed. With such a busy household, they thought they were in for a nice, lengthy break from adding more children to their family.
They were wrong.
In March 2014 God got their attention in an undeniable way and told them: “You’re adopting from Latin America”. After the shock began to die down, they somewhat skittishly agreed. Very soon afterward God once again got their attention in a way they could not work around and He informed them (and confirmed in multiple ways) that they were to pursue a particular little girl. Her name is Lene. If they were to be totally honest, they’d have to admit to being caught by utter surprise that God pointed them in this little girl’s direction. Why? Because Lene has Down Syndrome. A child with that type of special needs was never on their radar. While God was busy softening their hearts toward what this would entail, He also began building a love for Lene inside them. Once they laid all of their fears and hesitations down at the feet of their Lord, they were changed. God had done a work in their hearts that was not possible in the natural realm. Not only did they say yes to God and to sweet little Lene, but suddenly they saw themselves with only her in mind. Regardless of legalities, this family feels that Lene is already a part of them and they are doing everything in their power to bring her home as quickly as possible!
4/7/16–OFFICIAL REFERRAL RECVD, WAITING FOR TRAVEL DATES
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://www.amerrychaos.blogspot.com/
The Moody family has always had a desire to adopt and they are excited to have committed to pursue a little boy from Asia. His name is (will be) Maddox Charles Moody and he will be called Max. Reading his description, Michael and Whittney thought he sounded so much like their 20-month-old son who also has Down Syndrome – both loving to be outside and music. They knew this was the child they wanted to pursue. As they adopt Max they ask for your prayers, encouragement, love, and support. Be praying for Max and the foster family who is caring for him. Max has Down Syndrome which means having a foster family to give him personal care and affection is an already answered prayer. Adoption reminds us that we have a Father who pursued us and brought into His family at great cost. Adoption is woven through and in the Gospel and we can love because we have been loved. The Moody’s can welcome Max as a son because we have been welcomed as sons and daughters!
Divine appointments. That is the best way to describe how the Moodys found Max. Their friend Jarod Jones used these words when he prayed for them at Journey Church the day they announced their news. In Whittney’s research on Down Syndrome she came across a t-shirt campaign for a family adopting a little girl from China. Whittney loves adoption, loves Down Syndrome, and loves t-shirts – so she bought a Simply Love shirt and wears it all the time. Later Whittney would be connected with Stephanie Gilbert on facebook – the sweet family who was adopting from the t-shirt campaign. Stephanie is now an advocate for connecting families with children with DS who are waiting to be adopted. During October (Down Syndrome Awareness Month) she posted a picture each day of a waiting child. On October 16th she posted a picture of Max. His description (and adorable face) captured Whittney and Michael – he sounded so much like Jude.
Another divine encounter was when the Moody’s met an amazing family at the NYC Buddy Walk in September – Shawn Baz and Sarah Bee. Michael noticed them first because he saw Sarah with 2 little blonde girls – both with Down Syndrome. He found that intriguing and then noticed Shawn walking up carrying a 3rd cutie, also with DS. Michael said they had to go talk to them. The Moodys were so touched hearing their story of adopting their 3 daughters. Another divine encounter as God continued to prepare Michael and Whittney’s hearts to pursue Max just a month later.
In sharing the Moody’s journey to Max, the decision to adopt a second son with Down Syndrome was not one they have entered lightly. There were many questions they considered including how this would impact their older two children, Mikayla and MT, who would now have two brothers to take care of after Michael and Whittney are gone. But when it came down to it they knew there was no good reason not to adopt Max. They have the ability to provide a home, love, and care for this precious little boy. As Michael describes it, “We did not have a Saul-like experience in our decision to adopt Max. Instead we are simply obeying the Gospel’s command to take care of orphans and we are doing this in a way that makes sense for our family. We believe our family is uniquely qualified to raise Max and be his forever family.”
Thank you for your support, love, and prayers!!
8/4/16—LOA RECVD
We are the Gehrung Family, Nancy, Brian, Collin (22), Shannon (20) and Ava (10). We have been wonderfully blessed by Ava since we brought her home 5 years ago. We are currently in the process of adopting another beautiful little girl from Asia.
Our story is a bit long in detail because so much has happened in these last 5 years. These details are so important to our story and all of these details have lead us to our newest daughter waiting for us, Aliza Rose. Here’s our story…
Brian and I met about 12 years ago. I was a divorced, single mom working full time as a kitchen designer, raising two kids, two dogs and a guinea pig. Collin was 10 and Shannon was 8. Brian was (and still is) a full time sales and service clerk at the Menomonee Falls Post Office. Once we met, we never looked back. We dated for 4 years and were married on November 8, 2008 with Collin and Shannon by our sides.
Brian, Collin, Shannon and I are all “little people”. We each have Achondroplasia Dwarfism, the most common type of genetic dwarfism, just like some of those on the TLC shows “Little People, Big World” and “The Little Couple”. I am the youngest of 3 children in my family, plus I am the only girl and the only one in my family with dwarfism. Brian is the youngest of 5 kids and he is also the only one in his family with dwarfism. We all belong to the group “Little People of America” (LPA) a social/support group for Little People.
A few years after we were married, Brian and I began to think about adding to our family, but since I have several chronic yet stable neurological issues related to my dwarfism, another pregnancy could be very difficult for me, so we began looking into adoption. But the idea of adoption tugged at our hearts for a few other reasons too. With our involvement in LPA, we had learned there were many dwarf children around the world in need of families and in our hearts, we knew we wanted to adopt a child with dwarfism. Plus, we had learned that in some countries around the world, children and adults with dwarfism are ostracized and treated as outcasts. This sad fact weighed heavy on our hearts. How could we not reach out to one of these dwarf children? Since all four of us grew up as little people in the US where we were accepted and given many opportunities, we simply felt called to bring one of these children home and to make them a part of our family, a family who truly understands the many physical, emotional and social struggles little people can encounter during their lives.
Then one day in June of 2010, we learned of a 5 year old little girl with Achondroplasia living in China, through LPA’s adoption group. After mountains of paperwork, many appointments and a whole lot of prayers, we met our daughter Ava Rose, our first little LOVE from China, in May of 2011.
Soon after bringing her home, Ava received a devastating medical diagnosis. Her doctor had ordered a CT scan of her brain, because we and he suspected Ava might have Hydrocephalus (water on the brain), which can be common in those who have Achondroplasia Dwarfism. Before we even arrived home from having the test completed, the doctor’s office called. As I answered the phone, my stomach began to ache. I had a gut feeling that they were not calling so soon with good news. I began to cry as I heard the nurse tell me… “Ava doesn’t have Hydrocephalus, instead, the CT revealed that she’d had a massive stroke either in utero or at birth. It affected 75% of the left side of her brain, it affected her speech, left her with right sided weakness and cerebral palsy, she will probably have life long cognitive and physical challenges and delays and there is a good chance that she could have seizures.” We were stunned… but we pulled it together and began to learn about these new diagnoses and set out to get her the best medical care and therapies we could find. Ava was at high risk for SUDEP, Sudden Unexplained Death due to Epilepsy and that was terrifying to us. Since no medication could control Ava’s seizures and since they were focused in one area of her brain, a 2 stage neurological surgery became our only option. The first surgery in November 2014 itself went smoothly, unfortunately, Ava’s recovery was anything but smooth. Amazingly though, eight days after surgery, Ava was strong enough to be released to go home. Unfortunately, two days later, we brought her to the ER and she was admitted for an infection. She finally began to seem like her old self in April of 2015, but in May, we began to see new and increasing seizure activity. In June, her neuro team confirmed the need to plan for another surgery to stop her seizures all while dealing with a blood clotting disorder. Thankfully, with a lot of teamwork, planning, testing and an amazing little test called a “MEG Scan”, Ava’s second surgery was set. This time, surgery and recovery went much smoother and was successful. Ava has only had a few seizures in the last year and a half. Making the decision for Ava to undergo these two complex brain surgeries were two of the hardest decisions we have had to make. But we are so happy we choose these surgeries. Today, approximately 18 months since her last surgery, Ava is growing and thriving both cognitively and physically. She still has and will probably always have many cognitive and physical challenges, but at least for now, she is seizure free.
In the summer of 2015, a happy, healthy Ava started asking for a little brother or sister. That August, we were blessed to be able to visit with several of Ava’s former caregivers. During that visit, we learned that a sweet, almost 2 year old little girl with Achondroplasia had just arrived at the same institute that Ava was in. After many thoughts and prayers, we knew she was meant to be ours and we began the process of bringing home our 2nd little love from China. We as a family of 5 have experienced a few bumps (that were out of our control and that temporarily side-tracked our momentum) along our adoption process, but we are now working as quickly as possible to bring her home and to fundraise too. Ava just can’t wait for her little sister to come home and neither can we. Thank you for reading our story and thank you for your support, positive thoughts and prayers!
9/19/16—DOSSIER EN ROUTE (DTC)
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at 1lessorphan1moregehrung.blogspot.com
We were not pursuing adoption… at all. We were so, very happy with the life we already have! And we only just adopted our littlest last year!
But God began to stir our unexpecting hearts when a friend found her on a China Advocacy Site. As she researched Poppy’s diagnosis, she recognized the connection to our son’s. Slowly God showed us how little faith we were displaying… and that God could do this… even if she was in China! We prayerfully decided to take a step… and then another… and God just kept letting us through the doors!
MPS disorders occur when there is a missing enzyme that breaks down cellular waste. That waste gathers in all the systems in their bodies, and as it accumulates, it starts to impede their function. As the child gets older, the symptoms only get worse.
Sly Syndrome has an enzyme replacement in trial right now that we are hopeful Poppy Mae will be able to benefit from soon. In China, she would have no such chance, as the medicine, even once it is approved, will be very expensive. This enzyme replacement will not cure her, but it should help to slow down the progression of the disease on her little body.
Because of our 5 year old’s involvement in the clinical trial, we have gotten to know some of the best of the best doctors who treat this disease. They have seen Poppy Mae’s file, are open and available, and are very excited to meet our little girl, too!
Because we are kind of doing all of this backwards, we are compiling our dossier at the same time that we are completing our home study. We are trusting that God will provide every penny for her adoption quickly so that we can bring her home SOON!!!From bilateral club feet, tendon release, heart surgery, and scoliosis surgery, casting, and bracing, our little flower has had it rough in her short 3 years. But these are the kinds of things we expect with MPS. MPS VII, or Sly Syndrome, is extremely rare, even among the MPS disorders. We’ve been part of that world for about 5 years, since we adopted our son who has a different form of MPS.
9/16/16—DOSSIER EN ROUTE (DTC)
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at poppymae.weebly.com