Almost There
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Because every family deserves the blessing of a child with Down Syndrome... |
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GIANNA NATALIA for Tyler and Rachael — SC
Rachael and Tyler and their little ones are beyond excited to be adding another precious child to their family through adoption. After having two biological children (3 year old and 4 year old) they added a 5 year old girl to their family in November 2013. Knowing they had more room in their family, and lots more love for the children left behind, they fell in love with a little princess and are adopting again! After initially having their eyes opened to the awesomeness of adoption, they knew they’d adopt again, but didn’t expect to move so quickly! However, they say that the love that makes you cross an ocean will make you do it quickly too.
Rachael and Tyler ask that you pray for their whole family and the sweet little girl waiting for them. They are forever grateful to those that donate toward bringing Gianna Natalia home and truly believe that each person who prays, donates, encourages, etc are a part of making an orphan into a daughter.
4/17/14—DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at www.flylikeabee.com
CHARLIE and LOLA for the Boyer — FL
On May 26, 2012 Dennis & Cindy committed to adopt a little girl named Adalyn. Adalyn had the same birth defect as 3 of their children. In December they traveled to meet Adalyn, while in country the threat of the ban was happening. On December 23 they returned home hoping to travel quickly back in Jan. since Adalyn needed surgery. Then the ban was made law the day before Adalyn`s 2nd birthday December 29. In February we found Adalyn did in fact have her surgery and was starting to gain a little weight, that was a blessing. In March they traveled to Washington with the parents of children with children still in Russia. Sadly nothing could be done. Still Praying and Believing for Adalyn they would move when God showed them other little ones that needed a home, however the door was not opened for another child yet. Until we saw a little brother and sister. We talked to two Moms who met these little ones. Three little ones in Brooksville have already come home from this same orphanage. Then on January 7, which is CHRISTmas in Russia we committed to adopting little Charlie and Lola. We had to work through a lot of emotions even after committing, that we are not abandoning Adalyn. Little Charlie is just 22 days younger than Adalyn and Lola is the same age Adalyn was when we started to adopt. Right after we made the decision to adopt these precious little ones I had my son put on Praise music and the song that came on God is Able. The very name we will give this little one. God had given me the names Sarah and Abraham in the beginning of our journey to adopt. Please pray for us as we start over again in adopting little Sarah Elizabeth and Abraham who will be called Abel, still have to pick out a middle name. They will be coming into a family of 8 children. Jennifer (Kevin) Westin,Trentin & Cindy Sue, Adam (Megan) Reese due in April, Andrew (Casey) Atlas, Aaron (Laura) Brandon due in march, Alex is on the mission field in Mexico right now and is based in Australia with YWAM, Austin is about to start apprenticeship under Steve Saint & his son Jesse , Addison seeking where God is leading him with music & Nora just returned from YWAM Australia , God is leading her to the Philippines next. Our home study update is almost done. This is moving very quickly and smoothly. Praying, Believing as the Hand of God leads us through this journey and He opens the orphanage Gates and provides for us to be able to bring our little ones home. We are incredibly blessed by the gift of two and still praying for the one. Blessings & so Grateful to everyone helping us. Dennis & Cindy
I have no greater joy than to hear my children walk in Truth. 3 John 4 My Prayer for all Our Children…………
4/17/14—DOSSIER COMPLETE, USCIS APPROVED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at
BOLDEN for the King family — OH
For a long time the Kings felt God pulling their hearts toward “the least of these”. After being blessed with a vibrant young family of their own, they found it heartwrenching to know that there were other little children of God, no different than their own, langishing away in institutions all over the world. Wanting no more or no less than to do what was right, they prayed. After coming to terms with the fact that they are the hands and feet of God, the decision seemed obvious. God is not dead, He is alive inside of us. We are are His hands, we are His feet. Those are His children.
4/17/14—DOSSIER SUBMITTED
FULLY FUNDED!!!
GEORGINA for the Wingfield family — TX
Jared and Debbie have been married for fifteen years. They met while attending college at Texas A&M University and are currently living in Kemp, TX where they are both teachers and coaches. After dating for two years they were married in June of 1998. With very busy work schedules, they waited nine years to start their family. They quickly learned that conceiving on their own was not going to be an easy process. After two years of trying, God blessed them with their precious little Carter Ellis in July of 2009. Jared and Debbie found out at fourteen weeks into the pregnancy through amniocentesis that Carter would have Down’s Syndrome. They were both so apprehensive about the unknowns, but as soon as they looked into the eyes of their little angel, all of their worries melted away. Carter has touched the lives of so many people, but none more than his parents. Four years ago Debbie discovered Reece’s Rainbow on the internet and began to empathize so much with every child she saw. She began to donate to children and used her role as a teacher to raise awareness to her students. She started her own class adoption program for Christmas. Debbie`s student donated and set a goal to receive a Christmas Angel ornament for the child that they chose. Every class met their goal and the ornaments still hang proudly in her Texas classroom. Still, she wanted to do more and knew that one day she wanted to add to her family and life with one of these special children. After a lot of prayer and two more years of failed attempts to conceive again on their own, Jared and Debbie finally recognized that God called them for a different purpose. It was then that they found Braeden. Jared and Debbie knew right away that fate and faith had led them to him. Over the past two years they have both watched Stasik (Braeden’s real name) grow healthy and happy. During that time, they also decided that their journey to adopt a child was not complete. Although two boys in the house definitely keeps things interesting, Debbie decided she was ready for a little bit of “Pretty in Pink”. The two decided that it was time for the boys to have a sister. They have found the perfect addition to their family with Georgina.
4/17/14—DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at georgina-onmymind.blogspot.com
KATHRYN for the Knofczynski family – GA
In December of 2012 while visiting their soon to be daughter Zoey in the orphanage, Greg and Stacey first laid eyes on this little girl. Each day while they waited for the workers to get Zoey ready, Greg and Stacey would interact with Ethel from across the room as she sat in a wooden playpen with no toys. Although they never got to talk to her or hold her, Ethel was always excited to see them.
Throughout the next year Greg and Stacey and their children prayed that someone would come for Ethel. Someone to hold her, to love her, to free her from the captivity of an orphanage. Someone to give her a family, but no one came forward. Greg and Stacey know firsthand what the love of a family can do for these children. The two children they adopted during that trip have made such tremendous progress over the last year. So it broke their hearts to know that Ethel was probably still spending her time sitting in that same wooden playpen, day after day. Greg and Stacey thought of several selfish reasons and excuses not to bring Ethel into their family. But as they searched the Bible for guidance, no such excuses could be justified.
Their children, Isabel-11, Maya-9, Lucy-7, Edison-5, Otto-3, Clay-2, and Zoey-2 are very excited for another sister to join their family. They can’t wait to hold her, play with her, show her the world outside the walls she has always known, and mostly, to show her and teach her the love of Christ. Greg and Stacey now pray that the Body of Christ will stand with them in prayer and sacrifice to make it possible for Ethel to know the love of their family.
4/17/14—DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at anothersuperk.blogspot.com
A CHILD for the Shoger family — FL
Andrew and Kristin have been married for 10 years and have 3 biological boys! In the spring of 2013, God began to open their eyes to the needs of children around the world who are without families. Seeing how much they have been blessed by God with a loving family, faith, and a warm, cozy house, the Shogers felt God calling them to open their arms to another child. They began to have a strong desire to give a child in need a family, love, security and the chance to know and love Jesus. As they prayed about adoption, the Lord began showing them over and over again children with down syndrome and other special needs. As their eyes were opened to the life that awaits children with down syndrome in Eastern Europe, they decided to follow their hearts and pursue the adoption of a special little one with an extra chromosome. They hope to add a little pink to all the blue that’s currently in their home! Though they don’t know her name and have never seen her face, they know without a doubt that God has knit this special little one together in her mother’s womb and, even now, is knitting her together in their hearts!
Please join the Shoger’s on their journey of faith by following their blog. They covet your prayers, your support and your love as they embark on this exciting and life changing journey!
4/16/14—DOSSIER in COUNTRY
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at www.copycatrat.blogspot.com
DRAKE for the Theisen family — ID
About 18 months ago God started whispering to Meg’s heart about considering adoption when their Student Ministries Pastor and his wife were at the beginning of their own adoption. At the time Meg’s body was a mess of unchecked Fibromyalgia, Arthritis, and chronic back & neck pain; not the best scenario to introduce a little one into.
Meg started praying about it and, during yet another experience in hearing God’s desire for them to adopt through a speaker at a Homeschooling Conference, Meg asked Rich to start praying about it too. The subject of adoption kept coming up through any avenue God saw fit to use; movies, books, bible studies, and of course, scripture. It was undeniable and unavoidable; Jesus had a plan for their family. Rich and Meg have taught their 5 sons that it doesn’t matter how much you study the bible; you have to live it. In short, the boys were on board long before their parents were.
God has moved mountains in our world to accommodate obedience. He’s addressed nearly all of Meg’s physical issues, including the latest surgery on her back that should resolve most of her daily pain! The fitting response to getting a second chance at a normal life is to extend that blessing to a little one who’s chance at basic survival is disturbingly low. (They read that Internationally, 80% of special needs children who age-out and are then institutionalized, die within the 1st year.) Then finally, God softened and spoke to Rich’s heart on the subject; although in his defense he is already pretty dang tender!
So where do we start? There’s so much need. I looked at so many websites and read so many biographies of waiting children and what captured their hearts was a 3 year old little boy with Down’s syndrome named Drake and he lives in Lithuania. He was the only one out of all those kids that had stated in his bio, “He’s 3 years old and nobody visits him.” Meg’s (and Rich’s) heart broke. The Holy Spirit whispered, “Yes.” and that’s all it took. Meg was blessed and burdened with a glimpse of how Jesus feels about these forgotten little ones… there’s no turning away from that.
Now, they are within months of meeting their son; Homestudy in motion, Dossier package on it’s way to them to start the mad dash towards completion. They are watching God’s plan unfold for their family in awe of His thoroughness and provision. Not only provision in their fund-raising efforts through the generosity of others but also God’s provision in the form of redemption. To make a long story short; Meg’s heritage on her mother’s side is full Lithuanian, the side where the generational sin of abuse occurred. But God, by His grace, is doing a new thing! He is bringing something good and honorable and loving from what was damaged and broken and ugly by redeeming this long tainted Lithuanian blood. What an unforeseen blessing! God is so good.
They pray that Jesus is whispering in Drake’s ear… “Your parents are coming soon and they love you so much…”
4/10/14—DOSSIER COMPLETE and IN COUNTRY
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at hecapturedourhearts.blogspot.com
LANIE’s family — MD
Two years ago, this family began the process to adopt from Russia and they spent four beautiful days visiting with two precious children in Russia in December 2012. Before they were assigned a court date to finalize the adoptions, however, Russia passed a law banning American citizens from adopting Russian children. The little ones they want so much to bring home remain in orphanages despite the blood, sweat, tears and prayers of many people on both sides of the Atlantic. This family remains ready return for the children they met in Russia just as soon as they are allowed, but as time has passed they have determined that there is still room in their family for one more child – specifically, for one more little girl who has waited a long, long time for someone to make her their daughter.
4/14/2014—DOSSIER COMPLETE; AWAITING USCIS APPROVAL
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at foxberryfarmalmanac.blogspot.com
CONNIE for the Walters family — TN
Glenn and Vashti Walters live in Oak Ridge, Tennessee and have three children, Amelia, Grant, and James Ivan. In 2011, God gave them a love for a child whose Reece’s Rainbow picture they had seen on Facebook via a Christmas Warrior. “Dillon” became James Ivan Walters in August of 2011 and has rocked the Walters’ world ever since!
Amelia and Grant started asking for a sister almost immediately and would peruse the Reece’s Rainbow “available children” looking for a sister. But it wasn’t until Amelia showed them Connie’s profile that God worked in Glenn and Vashti’s hearts and they knew they had found their daughter. Amelia and Grant both said they prayed about Connie without saying anything to their parents! God certainly does use children to do HIS work!
Connie is almost 10 years old and has been asking for a family of her own. God truly cares about the plight of orphans and Glenn and Vashti are so thankful for His mercy toward them and toward Connie!
“And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’” ~Matthew 25:40
2/28/14—LOA RECVD, HOPE TO TRAVEL IN MAY
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at wonderfullymadebyhim.blogspot.com
LUKE for the Boroughs family — NJ
Adam and Amy Boroughs are the parents of 11 children, 8 of whom joined their family through the miracle of adoption. They had just brought their newest daughter Maddie home from Bulgaria, when their FB newsfeed began to fill up with beautiful children in need of host families for the summer. One little boy immediately grabbed their attention as he had Down syndrome, like 5 of their children. The deadline for him to be chosen arrived, and they felt God prompt them to commit to be his host family. The instant they met him, they knew he was meant to be a part of their family! They are now paperchasing as fast as they can. They hadn’t planned on starting another adoption so soon, and had no time to raise funds. They are incredibly grateful for all the support in bringing their son home!
4/11/14—DOSSIER EN ROUTE (DTC)
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at justamomofseven.blogspot.com
FULLY FUNDED!!
NICHOLAS for the West family — TN
Fifteen years ago, Nathan and Amber were love-drunk teenagers dreaming of a future together. They agreed adoption was in the cards from the start, and hoped for a house full. Layla was the first to arrive. Now nine years old, Layla has the sweetest spirit and a zest for reptiles. Twins Brynn and Cale joined the family via domestic adoption and recently turned seven. Brynn loves to entertain with song and dance and has a servant’s heart. Cale, the only boy so far, loves anything with wheels and is the very definition of charming. Anna Gray joined their family from Ukraine through Reece’s Rainbow in 2012. She keeps the whole house grounded in love and shines brighter than the sun. Not long after Anna Gray made it home, the older kids started asking where “Brother” was. After taking some time to adjust as a family of six, it became obvious that he was missing. Initially, the family decided to be very specific about who Brother was going to be and that another international adoption was just too much work. God said very clearly for them to “Stop trying to make the rules.” and brought them back to Reece’s Rainbow to see Brother’s face staring back at them. His interests are listed as: signing, dancing, cars, and zoo animals. HE IS THE MISSING PIECE. Trading rules for faith, they are now working to get Brother home. He has waited too long for a family of his own. Now, he has one ready and waiting for him.
4/7/14—DOSSIER EN ROUTE (DTC)
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at growingwests.blogspot.com
LAYNE for the Garrett-Gardner family — NC
John and Joanne met through mutual friends in 2001. They were both musicians and enjoyed playing guitar and collaborating with other musicians. They began writing songs together, and quickly became close friends. They soon fell in love and in 2005 were married. They always knew that they wanted a family, and it had been a dream of theirs to grow their family through adoption. In 2008, that dream came true when they were blessed with a wonderful son, Zachary, who is from Vietnam.
The visit to Zachary’s orphanage in Vietnam had a profound impact on John and Joanne. It was very difficult for them to see so many special needs children being overlooked for adoption. At that moment they knew they would be adopting again. They just weren’t sure when!
In December 2012 John and Joanne decided it was time! They signed with an agency and started the adoption “paper chase”. They intended to complete their dossier and wait for a referral for a daughter with special needs. However, one day Joanne began looking at photos of waiting children, and immediately was drawn to a beautiful baby girl name Layne who has hydrocephalus. From the moment they saw her, John and Joanne knew that Layne was meant to be their daughter…and they can’t wait to be her parents! Zachary is so excited to be a big brother and asks every day when they will be able to travel to bring Layne home.
Thank you for your help in bringing Layne home.
11/7/13—DOSSIER SUBMITTED
MELIA for the Tourville family — MO
Darren and Robin Tourville have a great passion for the orphans of China. They have a biological son who is 25. In 2001 they adopted their first daughter from China. Of course she had to have a sister and so they returned to China in 2004. In 2005 they fell in love with a little boy from China with heart trouble. At that point they were done with their family. In 2011 after Darren read “Choosing to See” by Mary Beth Chapman God clearly spoke to him that they weren’t done with their family and they adopted another little boy from China who was begging for a family. He has very significant heart issues and has had a stroke. He has made great strides since home. There has been a nagging in Robin’s heart since they brought their last son home that they weren’t quite done providing a loving home to the children of China. Robin has a great passion for Down’s children and God has lead them to the perfect girl for their family with Down’s syndrome and some heart issues.
They are so excited to bring Melia, soon to be Mollie, home and provide her the love she needs to grow and be happy.
Please continue to support the Tourville family in the process to bring their daughter/sister home. Pray for her safety and health until she gets home and the process goes quickly and smoothly. For anyone who feels lead to help them financially and share in their blessing they would be forever grateful.
Thank you!!
John 14:18 I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you
2/13/14—DOSSIER EN ROUTE
DON MICHAEL for the Munn family — VA
The Munns have been married for 10 years and are blessed to be parents to 4 biological children. They live in the picturesque Sheandoah Valley – near Washington D. C. – where they have numerous “pet” goats, sheep, horses, and a Mammoth Mule named Leona. Completely by chance – and blessings – they came across Reece’s Rainbow last month while advocating for another child for a friend of theirs. While on the site, Mrs. Munn found Don Michael and was so taken with him and his profile that she could not forget about him. He is an amazing child who works hard to be the best he can and will age out on May 1st. The family networked and advocated for him for a few weeks, hoping and praying that someone already paper ready for adopting from China would step up and be his family before he aged out. No one did. After many prayers it was clear that Don Michael was to be in their family – a loved brother and son – and they jumped in head first to try to adopt him before his birthday. They have made great strides time wise and God has opened many doors along the way.
4/11/2014—DOSSIER APPROVED; I800 RECEIVED
JOSIE for a family in MT
3/17/14—USCIS APPROVED, AWAITING TRAVEL DATES
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at lovinglifeonourfunnyfarm.blogspot.com
RYAN and CHLOE’s Family
“Siblings that haven’t met”
These two don’t even know they have each other or a whole bunch of brothers and sisters waiting for them when they get home to America. Their mother and father have been married for over 13 years. (They have been in ministry for most of those years.) This is the first adoption for the family! Both children have Down Syndrome. She is 4 and he is 5. His birthday just happens to be on mom and dad’s wedding anniversary!! Both parents have felt the call to adoption (specifically special needs) for many years and were waiting for the right timing. When mom found out she wasn’t able to have more biological children they knew the time to adopt would be soon upon them. Shortly after finding out the heartbreaking news, they found these two precious ones. The entire family is beyond excited to bring these two beauties home.
The family covets your prayers as they wait. If you feel led in any way to help bring these two darlings home, we just want to say THANK YOU. Blessings!!!
3/31/14—LOA RECEIVED
CALLIE for the Maples family — FL
Jonathan and Sarah met on Mother’s Day 1999 and were married less than a year later. Almost from the start they knew that adoption was going to be the method they would use to grow their family. In 2005 they brought home Samuel from India and through an odd set of occurrences Ivy from China at the end of the same year. While on these trips they saw the huge need of the orphans looking for a forever family, and felt especially connected to children with special needs. So in 2006 they adopted Ian from China who was born with sever bilateral cleft lip and palate. In 2008 they felt the call to adopt again and brought home Iris, who has a hand deformity, from Guatemala. Most recently in 2009 Jonathan and Sarah adopted Grace, who has Down Syndrome, from Serbia.
Now Jonathan and Sarah are feeling the call again to adopt a child with Down Syndrome. They immediately fell in love with Callie from China and have started down the path to bring her home. In addition to being an amazing addition to their family she would be a wonderful companion to grow together with Grace.
2/12/14—DOSSIER SUBMITTED (LID)
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at gatheringangels.blogspot.com
SETH for the Speelman family — OH
The Speelman family consists of J.T., Ginny and their 2 sons. They have been married for nine years. They have been planning to be a family of five and originally hoped our newest addition might be a girl. Ginny worked in college with adults and children with disabilities, which led to a career change, becoming a rehabilitation counselor, working with adults with disabilities in the workforce. Sometime after having their second son, Ginny stumbled upon Reece’s Rainbow and was struck by the little boys the same age as her own were orphaned because they were HIV positive. Sadly that country no longer allows Americans to adopt. Ginny began to peruse Reece’s Rainbow and other advocacy sites more frequently and joined an advocacy Facebook group. She also began assisting in a group to raise funds for families adopting. During this process she learned boys often wait longer than girls to find families and that even just being a boy is considered a special need. She knew then if we adopted it would be a little boy. In the early spring of 2013, Ginny saw a little boy listed in an Asian country. Something about his picture and description stuck with her. She continued to check on him regularly, then daily, to see if a family had found him. The summer of 2013 she asked JT to please consider adoption and this little boy specifically. A few days later she placed his picture on the refrigerator, and that night JT called from work to say he was thinking very much about this little boy. God continued to move in JT’s heart, and they submitted the paperwork in September to commit to this child, listed on Reece’s Rainbow as Seth. He is a little more than a year younger than their youngest, and everyone is very eager to have him home!
3/27/14—DOSSIER COMPLETE
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at speelmanhome.wordpress.com
LEO for the Aschoff family — MN
Ted and Jodi met in 2001 and married in 2005. After many years of infertility they chose to pursue adoption as a way to grow their family. Initially they encountered some bumps in the road including a domestic reclaim (of a boy with DS) but in their hearts they knew that adoption was the right choice and in 2011 they completed the adoption of their daughter (with DS), Kayella, from Latin America. They knew that Kayella should have a sibling and decided to pursue international adoption again specifically hoping to add another child with Down Syndrome to their family. Once they were ready to begin the process, their search of options for another adoption led them to Leo’s profile and they fell instantly in love with him and knew he would be the perfect addition to their family.
1/12/14—AWAITING OFFICIAL MATCH
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at tedandjodicolombia.blogspot.com
MERRY and JACK for the Simmerman family — UT
Wendy is a single mom of four amazing kids, all adopted. These kids have been wanting a sibling FOREVER! Mom finally came on board a few years ago. For three years they gave up vacations and donated their allowances in order to save up the money to adopt a sibling from China. Last summer their family received approval to bring home a four-year old little boy from China. In the middle of completing the paperwork for his adoption, they learned about Merry and unanimously voted to include her in the family as well. They’ve received preliminary approval for Merry’s adoption, and hope to travel by summer and bring home TWO new family members.
3/11/14—DOSSIER SUBMITTED 2.14.14
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at lifewithducks.blogspot.com
ELLIETTE and HENRY for the Wetherington family — FL
Jason and Stephanie have been married for almost 14 years. They have been blessed with 5 incredible children: 9 year old Koah, 5 year old Abigail, 2 year old Max, 2 year old Ryder, and their son Isaac. They had always talked about adoption, but it wasn’t until they lost their 18 month old son, Isaac, to heaven last year that they decided to do something about it. Their son, Isaac, was born with many special needs including a very severe heart defect. Losing him was the hardest thing they have ever been through. He was such an incredible blessing to their family, and they loved every second of taking care of him. After they lost Isaac, they knew that they had enough love to bring another child into their family, but this time through adoption like they had always talked about. Because of the joy that Isaac brought to their family, they wanted to adopt a child with special needs. Last October, they brought home their two sons from Ukraine, Max and Ryder. Ryder was born with Down Syndrome and Max was born with a complex heart defect. The two boys have brought so much joy to their family, and God has truly created beauty through their pain. Shortly after returning home from adopting the boys, God began breaking Stephanie’s heart for the older children…those who had never been chosen… those who had been waiting so long for a family, but had been passed over time and time again. They saw Elliette’s profile on Reece’s Rainbow and fell in love with her. She was due to age out next year, at which point she would no longer be eligible to be adopted. Never would they have ever imagined that they would be bringing home a teenager. In fact, after returning home from Ukraine, Stephanie said that she would never, ever adopt an older child. Apparently, God must have found great humor in her statement. They are so excited and can’t wait to bring their daughter home to her family where she belongs. But, they know that they cannot do it without God’s help and your help. Thank you for helping make Elliette one less orphan!
3/27/14—LOA RECEIVED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at journeyoftheheart5.blogspot.com
The Wetherington family currently has a $7000 match! When their FSP reaches $16,001.28, they will receive an additional $7000!
STANLEY + 1 for the Goerling family — AL
Tom and Mary have been married nearly 16 years and have 9 beautiful children, 2 of them adopted internationally. The year after bringing their two children home, God moved on them to host an orphan from their same birth country for the summer. After a while of praying, they obeyed and were led to Stanley. Their family got to spend four weeks with him that summer getting to know him. After he went back home, Tom and Mary decided to add him to their family. Everyone is very excited to bring him home to stay! We would appreciate any gift that someone is led to give. Thank you in advance.
3/27/14—DOSSIER SUBMITTED
LEAH and JOANNA for the Marenco family — CA
Danny and Sara met in college. Danny was going to be a pastor. Sara was going to be a doctor. They both enjoyed each others company, sense of humor, and love for Christ. A few years, they became boyfriend and girlfriend. A year later they decided to get married. Danny became a teacher and Sarah went to law school. After Sara had her first child, Michelangelo, she knew she wanted to stay home to raise her beautiful baby. Throughout their 18 years of marriage, they added three more beautiful children, a total of three boys and one girl. Danny has been teaching for many years. However, God is calling him back to the ministry. Therefore, he runs the Men’s Ministry at his church, preaches in different churches, and will start his M.A. in Pastoral Ministry in the near future. Sara and Danny enjoy having a loving God centered home where their children can be encouraged, loved, and trained in a Godly home.
Sara’s sister decided to adopt a beautiful down syndrome baby from the Ukraine through Reece’s Rainbow this past year. Although Sara and Danny have wanted to adopt for a long time, seeing Sabrina adopt a child, really made them think of adopting a child. Danny and Sara found a beautiful hearing impaired girl and would like her to be part of their family. Rosalia, their daughter, is very excited to have a new sister. The whole family is excited to have Leah as part of their family. Danny and Sara were very concerned of never having enough money for the adoption. However, after seeing so many families walking on faith, they decided to take a leap of faith. Come home Leah, come home…you have a family that loves you. Danny and Sara would like to thank everyone for their support and showing your great generosity as they embark in this beautiful journey.
3/22/14—WAITING FOR TRAVEL DATES
NATHAN for the Dasher family — CO
Johnny and Amy Dasher have been married for 30 years. They have 11 biological children and three adopted children. Their eleventh biological child Jillian is six years old and she has Down syndrome. After she was born they have often wondered why the diagnosis of Down syndrome is taught to be such a fearful thing. Their journey with Down syndrome has been an adventure!
Amy discovered Reece’s Rainbow in 2007 and the dream was set in place to adopt another child iwth the same diagnosis as Jillian. Jillian was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia in 2008. Adoption was set aside while she went through treatment. By 2010, she was in remission and doing very well! In April of 2010 they began their first adoption journey. In June of 2011 they brought home a little girl named Josie from China. Josie had a heart defect that was repaired after they brought her home. In nine months the transformation they watched was incredible! In 2012 they adopted Janna and Jamie who also have Down syndrome.
They are now in the process to adopt a little boy with Down syndrome from China. They would appreciate your prayers and financial support as they prepare to make the journey again!
1/25/13—DOSSIER EN ROUTE (DTC)
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at anincrediblejourney-dashers.blogspot.com
LARK for the LeBu family — IL
Mike and Kelly have spent the last year and a half working to bring home a little girl from Russia. After paperwork, travel, and nine months of the adoption ban, their journey ended in Sept. when their intended daughter was placed into a foster home. As they work to push through their grief, knowing that door has completely closed for them, they trust that God is opening a new door in a different country for a different little girl.
They have been married for 21 years and have 4 biological children. Their youngest daughter has Down Syndrome as well. As a military family getting ready for transfer next year, they have limited time to complete their new dossier and raise funds quickly. They gratefully appreciate your prayers and support as they strive to bring home this sweet little songbird.
2/14/14—OFFICIALLY MATCHED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at followmethere4her.blogspot.com
MARCI (Happy) for the Moore family — NC
When Gideon and Anne Moore were dating in 2001, they shared with each other that adoption was something that they wanted as part of their family. They just weren’t sure how and when.
They started life together in 2002, and they have been blessed with a beautiful baby girl and two amazing boys along the way. They also experienced three painful miscarriages of four unborn children.
Through that journey of joy and pain, they felt the strong call to adopt and to open their home to the children God has for them no matter where they were born. They started the process to adopt in 2008 and have successfully completed multiple home studies and dossiers along the way. Unfortunately, as they waited, there were numerous setbacks and delays along the way (including most recently the bankruptcy of their initial adoption agency).
In those delays and setbacks, God was at work. In February, they came across the most beautiful little girl with Down syndrome on a waiting child list with their new adoption agency. They immediately sought and obtained preapproval to adopt this little angel and have now completed and submitted yet another home study and dossier.
Over the last 5+ years, the setbacks, delays and costs have been difficult to bear at times, but as they wait to bring their daughter home from China, there is a realization that but for those setbacks and delays, they likely would not be bringing home THIS little girl … this daughter that they can’t imagine their future without.
11/1/13—DOSSIER SUBMITTED
CHAVA for the Chellson family — CA
David and Melissa have been married for 9 years and have two amazing boys, Ryan (8) and Mykhaylo (4). Their hearts were full with love after the adoption of their youngest son Mykhaylo (aka Misha or Aaron on RR) and they felt their family was complete with their two boys. However, after a year of being home with Misha, David and Melissa began talking about expanding their family once more with a third child (hoping for a girl), but were not excited about the road to having another baby after dealing with secondary infertility and failed fertility treatments prior to adopting Misha. Melissa had always browsed the Reece’s Rainbow website just to stay in touch with the adoption world and thought maybe one day they’d adopt again…It wasn’t until Melissa saw the picture of precious Chava and immediately knew that the day had come sooner than later that they would adopt again. Once Melissa showed David Chava’s picture, he agreed that they needed to bring her home. David, Melissa and the boys are excited to welcome a daughter/little sister into their family and are looking forward to the added touches of pink and purple she will bring to their family!!
3/13/14—DOSSIER EN ROUTE
Follow the Chellson family’s adoption journey on their blog at chellsonfamilyadventures.blogspot.com
SERAPHINA for the Meyer family — GA
Sarah has always wanted to be a mother, she knew she wanted to adopt and wanted to raise children with special needs. Growing up in a family where she got to witness children come and go through the foster care system, arriving alone, learning to be a part of a family, and leaving to spend the rest of their lives with a new forever family, was such an amazing experience. Even as a teenager, she knew that she wanted to give children that feeling of belonging to a family, when they had none. Now as an adult, she is ready to take that step.
Sarah had been looking into adoption and following waiting children’s stories for quite some time when she first saw and fell in love with a little girl on Reece’s Rainbow. She knew instantly that this little girl was meant to be her daughter and committed to bring her home, but this past January, the country where this little girl was born, closed it’s doors to American adoptions. Sarah still feels committed to that little girl, but acknowledges that God is in control of this journey and after lots of consideration and prayer, she is moving forward to give another child the love of a mother and hopefully, down the road, the joy of a sister. Sarah has fallen in love again, with another sweet girl known as ‘Seraphina’.
Bringing ‘Seraphina’ home is truly a blessing. She will be loved and cherished by everyone who meets her and already holds a very special place in Sarah’s heart. Your prayer and financial contributions towards ‘Seraphina’s’ journey home, is truly appreciated.
12/25/13—USCIS APPROVED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://extrapositivepromises.blogspot.com/
OLIVER and ANDREW for the Nolan family — NJ
Josiah & Jenny have been married for 2 ½ years. They are originally from the Midwest (Wisconsin & Minnesota), but moved out to New Jersey about 2 years ago for Josiah’s career. Jenny traveled to Eastern Europe for the first time during her sophomore year in college, which is when she fell in love with this country. She has since returned five more times to work in the orphanages and teach English as a second language.
They have discussed adoption for a very long time, and they have both known that this is something the Lord has planned for them in the future. In September of 2013, Jenny discovered Reece’s Rainbow and became slightly obsessed. She spent hours scrolling through the pictures of the children, reading blogs, and talking to Josiah about the stories. When she saw Oliver on the front page of the website, with the words, “facing imminent transfer,” her heart was immediately softened to him, but his special needs were overwhelming. She showed Oliver’s picture to Josiah and they committed him to prayer. They prayed daily that the Lord would bring parents to adopt him. Pretty soon they started thinking, “Why can’t we adopt him?” But his physical needs were still overwhelming, and they felt that another family would be better suited to be his parents. One day, when they saw the words, “Oliver has been transferred!” their hearts sank. There were many questions and tears and prayers.
One Sunday on their way to church, after one of their serious discussions about adopting Oliver, Jenny commented that she wanted an obvious sign. She jokingly said it would be nice if the pastor said, “You will adopt.” As they walked into church about 15 minutes late, the first thing that they heard their pastor say was, “We need to adopt.” They looked at each other, with mouths hung open in disbelief, and started to laugh. When they returned home from church, they saw a video of sweet little Oliver for the first time, and in the video was Andrew. They knew immediately that if they traveled to Eastern Europe to get Oliver, they would not leave Andrew behind.
Although this journey sometimes seems impossible, they know that with God, nothing is impossible. The physical needs & severe delays in Oliver & Andrew from a life of living in a crib are overwhelming and daunting, but they believe that these boys are just as deserving of love as any other children. These boys need a family to love them unconditionally, and that’s what Josiah and Jenny are going to give them. God doesn’t make mistakes, and he didn’t make any mistakes when he created Oliver & Andrew. They are perfect.
Thank you for your prayers & support for Josiah & Jenny throughout this process. They are not rich, they do not have lots of experience with special needs children, and they have never been parents before. They are not doing anything extraordinary or amazing; they are just following the Lord’s calling on their lives. To HIM goes all the glory.
3/27/14—DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at josiahandjenny.blogspot.com
FULLY FUNDED!!!
5 Siblings for the Lusher family — KY
Psalm 127:3 says that children are a blessing and a gift from the Lord. So often our society believes that the blessings in this life are fame, fortune, keeping up with the neighbors, getting the largest house or the latest model car. But, the Lushers believe the truest and best gifts are the children God places into our arms. Chris and Brooke Lusher have 4 children, 4 wonderful blessings. Three are biological, and one was adopted domestically. Chris works full time while Brooke is a stay-at-home mom. While fostering 3 children at once, the Lusher family really enjoyed having a large family. Even though having a larger family m ay require a lot from Chris and Brooke, they feel called to be the hands and feet of Jesus in this way: to fulfill the call to look after orphans in their distress (James 1:27). We are Christians, Christ followers. So, what does that look like? For Chris, Brooke, Abigail, Liliana, Jadon and Elisa Lusher, it looks like fundraising an LOTS of it, preparing a regular size home for 5 more beds, buying a larger van, enjoying the adventures that God sends us on together. It looks like adoption. It sounds like a lot of laughter and “I love you’s.” It feels like LOVE.
We appreciate those who are praying about partnering with us to bring our children home. Thank you for helping us love on those who the world may abandon. For, in God’s eyes, they are invaluable. In His hands they are Queens and Kings. May God bring our children to us!
4/9/14—APPOINTMENT IS MAY 6
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at lusherfamily.weebly.com
CLARICE and GRANT for Carson and Jill
Here they go again! After experiencing the blessing of adoption firsthand about a year ago, Carson and Jill are eager to expand their family once more. They seek to bless two older children who are at risk of aging-out and have special needs with a family. They currently have four children (one through adoption), and have come to realize the weighty and eternal impact they can have as parents. Carson and Jill seek to teach their children not only the stories in the bible, but how to seek justice and love mercy in their daily lives, attitudes, and actions. They can’t wait to shower their new children with kisses, hugs, good nutrition, loads of fun, and medical care.
3/20/14—DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at oneorphansrescue.blogspot.com
ADAM and DAVID for the Ray family — CA
After bringing Micah (RR) home in 2011, Barry and Shelly thought their family was complete. They were content with their four Littles running all over the house, happy, healthy and thriving (and their two Bigs out of the house). Then Shelly’s dear friend posted another “find his mama” post about Grant, whom Shelly had noticed and prayed over for the past three years. But for some reason, this day in November was different. She felt a strong gut-punch telling her to go for him. A few days later, another family committed to him and she thought she was off the hook. But the Holy Spirit kept telling her to go back for another child. She told Barry, and once he was on board, it was full steam ahead! At first they thought they’d go back to Ukraine, adopting another very young boy with Down syndrome, but they didn’t feel called to one specific child, so they decided they would do a blind referral this time. They had it in their heads how it would go, and they were SOOO excited to return to Ukraine because they left half their hearts there in 2011. It’s funny how God is in control because a couple weeks after that, Shelly noticed “Adam” and inquired about him and his country. Once they saw his videos, they knew he was their son!
Several weeks later, they found “David” and also felt drawn to him immediately. They are so excited to bring the boys home in 2014, and their current children are also very excited.
4/13/14—WAITING FOR TRAVEL DATES
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at www.rays-r-us.blogspot.com
TONY for the Mounts family — OK
Mike and Kathy and the A-Team brought home Alex (Sam 2H) in November, 2011. He has been a huge blessing to their family and it has been fun to watch him learn and grow. Their six biological children have loved having a little brother. God has called them to expand their family once again. They hope to bring “Tony” home in 2014.
Please pray for “Tony” as God prepares him to be part of their family and for the family as God prepares them to parent him. Also, prayers for God’s financial provision would be greatly appreciated.
4/1/14—TRAVEL APPROVAL RECVD
Follow the Mounts family’s adoption journey on their blog at addingtotheAteam.blogspot.com
HEAVENLY for the Peterson family — WY
The biggest blessing after 11 years of marriage, has been the opportunity for Robert and Charlene to parent five energetic, happy, lively boys. This journey has been one adventurous ride while forging through many rapids; finding the balance among work, Autism, Down syndrome, and what is “typical.” Working as special education teachers, Robert and Charlene are fortunate to share the passion of education at home and school. Within their household of five busy boys, it is finally time to add in the missing girl!
3/27/14—DOSSIER SUBMITTED
JURI and JANNA for the Mueller family — MO
Jake and Dalas have been married for four years and God has blessed their marriage with two beautiful children, Evangeline (3 yrs) and Stephen (1 yr). Jake is the pastor of a rural congregation full of wonderful people with loving hearts. They have a supportive community and feel so blessed to do ministry there. Dalas stays at home with the little ones and supports Jake as he serves the Church.
Jake and Dalas have talked about adoption since they were first married. They have done advocacy and fundraising for orphans and their adoptive families for the last few years and they are ecstatic that God is finally opening the doors for them to have the privilege of being the Mommy and Daddy to a child who is so worthy of that love. The Mueller family is one that loves to laugh and have fun, take adventures learn new things and enjoy life. They cannot wait to bring Juri into their family and share that same joy of life with him.
But, as with everything, there is a season for play and a season for work. Now is the time for some hard work and sacrifice to bring their new son home. Jake and Dalas are totally committed to this boy and they are prepared to do everything it takes to hold him in their arms. They ask for your prayers and support and would love for you to join them in their journey as they take this leap of faith.
3/27/14—DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at crunchylutheranmommy.com
HAMILTON and NOBLE for the Williams family — FL
The Williams family is so excited and humbled to be embarking on this journey. Amber began frequenting the Reece’s Rainbow site after first visiting the Reece’s Rainbow booth at a buddy walk several years ago. Although adoption had always been something Amber thought they would do “one day”, she and her husband, Bill, both knew the time wasn’t quite right for their family. Recently though, as they began talking about growing their family, the idea of adoption again began to speak to them, this time loud and clear. And the time could not be more perfect!
For Amber and Bill, the direction of this journey has been inspired by their 11 year old son, Will. Having been blessed with an extra chromosome, Will brings love, life lessons, joy and a sense of purity into their world, beyond what can be put into words. Although the Williams family is humbled by the opportunity to give a child a safe, loving and supportive home where he can blossom, they are well aware of all they will receive in return. “It’s important to realize we adopt not because we are rescuers. No. We adopt because we are the rescued.” -David Platt
Once they decided to pursue adoption of a child with Down syndrome, Amber immediately turned to Reece’s Rainbow. Two sweet little baby boys, Hamilton and Noble, stole their hearts right away. They didn’t know how in the world to decide on just one of them. And then it occurred to Amber, adopt them both! Although initially a daunting idea (especially to Bill!), after realizing the boys were in the same country and COULD be adopted together, there was no turning back!
Please help spread the word about these boys and their journey home. Although the boys are in the same country, they are not in the same region and the adoption cost in country will be double. The Williams family is working hard to raise the funds needed to bring Hamilton and Noble home as quickly as the paperwork can be processed. They would be honored to have your love and support through this process and look forward to sharing with you the progress of this journey that you are helping make possible.
4/14/14—DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at trustyourgut.weebly.
BOBBY for the Decker family — TX
Rick and Kim have been blessed with 8 children (his, hers, and ours) ranging in age from 35 down to their youngest who just turned 7. They are no stranger to adoption or special needs. Kim had 3 children when she met Rick, two of whom were adopted. Her oldest son was adopted from US foster care as a baby and her next son was adopted from an orphanage in Lithuania. Fully aware of all the medical unknowns of this child, she was NOT aware of how much this child would change her life…….for the better! Cole was born with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and is autistic. He has taught, and continues to teach, their whole family whats most important in this life.
When God began stirring Kim’s heart again in 2010, she was pretty certain what He was asking her to do. About that same time, Kim “accidentally” came across Reece’s Rainbow and couldn’t believe the stories she was reading. She began sharing her heart with Rick and showing him what was happening to children with special needs in these foreign country orphanages. Children, just like their Cole. After much prayer, and continued prompting from God, they took a leap of faith and said “yes” to stepping out of their comfort zone and taking God’s adventure.
Their journey to Gabe began in Jan. 2011 and they brought home their little Russian treasure in Aug. 2011. Gabe has down syndrome and is quiet a little firecracker!! What a joy he is to this family and to all he comes in contact with. While in Russia, Rick and Kim saw with their own eyes what these children face, day in and day out. And although there are many people, and many reasons that it might seem crazy to do this again……..they believe there is not ONE good enough reason, in the Lord’s eyes, not to.
So following His lead, once again they are headed into the world of unknowns….international adoption! This time they will be going to China to bring home another little treasure who also has down syndrome. They know the path that lies before them is not an easy road to take, but they are totally confident in the One who has led them there.
They would love for you to come along for the journey, and would really appreciate your prayers for their new son, and for all of their family. Also, if you feel so led and want to donate funds to help bring their little guy home, they would be forever grateful.
“Once our eyes are opened we can’t pretend we don’t know what to do. God, who weighs our hearts and keeps our souls, knows that we know and holds us responsible to act.”
4/2/14—DTC – DOSSIER COMPLETE
Follow the Decker family’s adoption journey on their blog at wheremercymetgrace.blogspot.com
BURGANDI for the Ledlow family — AL
Jason and Tori have been married for 12 years. They have 2 biological boys, Joshua, 8, and Caleb, 6. They have known since they married that adoption would most likely be a part of their life at some point. In October 2009, the Ledlow’s felt the Lord lay China’s special needs program on their hearts. Little did they know at the time, though, that God still wanted them to wait a little longer. Soon after that first meeting, Jason’s mom got sick and passed away, and Jason and Tori cared for her aging parents until they passed away as well. Through all of this, adoption has still been close to their hearts and minds. Finally, in April 2013, they submitted their application to adopt. In July 2013 they laid eyes on this precious little girl, Burgandi, who will be called Zoe when she gets home.
Please pray for Zoe as we prepare to bring her home. We are all SO excited about our new “baby sister,” as the boys call her. But we know that while we have been waiting and praying and hoping for her for so long, she knows nothing about us. Jason, Tori, Joshua, and Caleb are very excited about bringing this precious girl home. Please partner with the Ledlow family in bringing this precious child of God home to her forever family. Donations and prayers are greatly appreciated! Thank you!!!
4/7/2014—HAVE LOA; AWAITING TRAVEL APPROVAL
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at 147minusone.blogspot.com
BRECK for the Murray family — TN
Having already adopted 6 children with special needs before committing to Breck, Ernie and Jennifer are not only excited about their newest addition but also well prepared for the challenges of special needs adoption.
Ernie and Jennifer first decided to build their family through adoption 15 years ago soon after they were married, but after looking into the requirements of various agencies and countries they realized they would have to wait several years to meet the age and length of marriage requirements for adoption. During this time they gave birth to a precious son while continuing to research adoption with a strong interest in the children who waited the longest for a family due to their special needs. When their son was just 7 months old they made the decision to adopt a 12 year old girl from Russia, thus beginning the journey of adoption for their family.
Their first adoption was by far the most difficult, not only because of the difficulties that continued to arise in the Russian process but also because of the difficulties they faced in dealing with their new teenager who was affected both by having grown up in an orphanage and also by fetal alcohol exposure. Nonetheless, Ernie and Jennifer stood firm not only in their love for their daughter but also their desire to adopt more special needs children.
Next to join their family was a beautiful little 2 year old boy from India who had been waiting for a family due to heart defects. Then while praying for children who continued to wait they were led to adopt a 3 year old girl from China who had waited many months to be chosen for adoption due to her multiple birth defects, the result of a rare genetic syndrome that causes many different issues and places her at very high risk for childhood cancer. While working to bring her home they continued to pray for the many children still waiting for families. They were especially drawn to a teenage boy who was about to age out of eligibility for adoption, but they were using an agency that NEVER allows the adoption of 2 unrelated kids at the same time. After fighting an incredible battle with their agency and receiving a miracle from God they were finally granted permission to adopt their new son. He turned 14 immediately after they got him. A year later their children’s prayers for a baby sister were answered when they heard about the need for a family for a baby girl waiting in New York City who had the same rare genetic syndrome as their daughter from China. They brought her home at just 3 months old, and the next year they brought home a 2 year old daughter from China who had cleft lip/palate. Now they are eagerly awaiting the arrival of their new son, “Breck” from China, and while they are happy the adoption process is moving much faster than normal this means they have had very little time to come up with the money for the adoption.
Ernie and Jennifer have worked hard and made a lot of sacrifices, but after paying for so many costly adoptions and dealing with many expensive medical bills they have come to a point in which they would welcome the financial support of others who want to help get little Breck home. They stepped out in faith knowing God would provide the funds to bring this precious child home, and they are very appreciative to those who so generously give so little Breck can know the love of a family.
4/7/2014—LOA RECEIVED on MARCH 20
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog: mysonsfromafar.blogspot.com
BARRY for the Smith family
The Smith family is happy to announce they are making room for one more! While they will always wait for their sweet girl in Russia, they knew they had room in their home and hearts for a brother and son. Seriously, look at that smile! They can’t wait to bring him home to their family and community. They appreciate all of the prayers and support over the past two years and they specifically ask for your prayers for this adoption.
His advocate shouted – “Barry is so bright, funny, cute, charming and above all else he is loveable and has so much love to give too.”
God whispered- “What about you?”
We questioned- “But what if?…. An older child?”
God whispered- “You have prayed for a child, I will give you a son.”
We prayed- “Can we?”
God whispered- “Will you? Will you be my hands and feet?”
We answered- “Yes, yes we will!”
Floodgates open…. love pours forth…. a brother…. a son…. a family knit together by our Maker
He is ours…. We will go.
3/3/14—DOSSIER EN ROUTE (DTC)
Follow the Smith family’s adoption journey on their blog at www.welovelucyadoption.blogspot.com
MEREDITH for the Lehmann family — WI
Brian and Keri have been blessed with 14 years of marriage and counting, with God as the glue…Marriage takes three! They always thought they would have their own children, when and if it was God’s will. But so far it has not happened…yet! They have been blessed with 4 legged furry kids, horses, dairy goats, dogs and cats,…but are still waiting for a 2 legged non furry kid or kids. 
After thinking maybe it was not in God’s plan for them to be parents, a phone call from one of Keri’s brothers in Nov. 2011 changed all that. Her brother told her that the baby he and his wife were expecting in the Spring might have Down Syndrome. Long story short…they would not be able to keep the baby…was this how God planned for them to finally become parents?! Keri told her brother they would adopt the baby in a heartbeat. Keri works in health care and Brian and Keri help care for a family friends child with special needs. This beautiful child with CP has been a blessing to them and really helped take away many of their fears and softened their hearts to a special needs child. Then began the research on Down Sydrome. Through research Keri came upon Reece’s Rainbows website, wow look at all these beautiful sweet children that need homes…how would you ever choose? Brian and Keri were still thinking that maybe they would be adopting her brothers baby. After much prayer time another phone call came, God’s answer was no. Keri’s brother and sister-in-law would be keeping the baby whatever the health of the baby, praise God! But ouch…will they ever be parents?!
Keri then returned to a list of Reece’s Rainbow kids, one child over and over again kept standing out among the others. After a lot of time in prayer, digging into God’s word and with many family, friends and their church praying for them. The answer and peace of what God was calling them to do became clear… sweet Meredith was to be their daughter! Wow, Praise the Lord! Even though there are still many answers unknown and concerns about finances. They continue to trust their Heavenly Father through this unknown journey and have faith that His will and timing is always perfect. As He has shown them many times through their 14+ years of marriage.
God is Good! Praying for Meredith’s health and safety!
Your Mommy & Daddy can’t wait for the day they can bring you home to your forever family…
2/14/14—COURT IS MARCH 10
DANIEL for the Rakoczy family — CA
Louis and Shannon met while in college. Twenty plus years later they are the proud parents of five children… two sons were homemade and their three daughters were handpicked. After birthing two sons, they felt the call to adopt after miscarrying two babies. Their first daughter arrived via the state foster care system at the age of eight. Though adopting an older child has its challenges, their family was greatly blessed and desired to adopt again. Shannon was very interested in international adoption this time and began researching the different country programs. The Lord led them to the China adoption program and in 2005, the family traveled to China to bring home their next daughter. They fell in love with her as well as her homeland and returned in 2007 to bring home a third daughter. They thought the Lord was done building their family but last summer, Shannon heard the call to bring home a little boy from Russia. After much prayer, the couple decided to move forward, only to have their hearts broken when the Russian president banned Americans from adopting Russian children. Feeling their family was indeed incomplete and desiring to offer a home and family to another child, they are now pressing on to bring a son home from China. They invite you to partner with them in prayer and financial support as they set out to “care for the least of these.”
4/6/14—LOA RECVD
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at xin-wang-ai-jia.blogspot.com
GAGE and MILLIE for the Novit family — WI
This adoption is one that is just awaiting it’s fairytale ending. Colleen travelled in June with another family that was adopting and while there they saw the little boy that they knew as “Gage” every single day of visits. Gage had previously had a committed family when he was listed in the fall of 2012, but the adoption couldn’t be completed and he needed to be relisted, it broke their hearts to see him everyday and know he was still waiting, especially because he was listed at the same time as the 3 children that Colleen and her friend were at the orphanage visiting. She would see him in passing and know she needed to find him a family when she arrived home, never in her wildest dreams would she have believed it would be her though!
On Thursday afternoon, the second to last visit before flying home, they were leaving the orphanage and he was sitting in the lobby with his baba, it was with heavy hearts and high hopes that they walked passed him with a promise to find him a family. What happened next though, it made Colleen’s entire trip make sense. “We didn’t want to bring all our toys home with us, we planned to just leave them in the playroom but when we saw a large group of children with their babas outside, I knew I had to walk over. I walked up, and motioned to the toys and tried to hand them the bags. They wouldn’t take them, they insisted that I pass them out and give them to children myself, I was on cloud nine and feeling so blessed for this moment in time. A short time later the rest of our travelling party came over and enjoyed the presence of these amazing little blessings, very shortly after though, out strolls Gage…. We really hadn’t had much interaction with him other than admiring him in passing until that moment, I grabbed a ball and went over to him…. I bent down and gave him his ball, he reached for me, grabbed on tight to my fingers, locked eyes, and smiled the most gorgeous little smile at me. His baba loved him so much, I couldn’t understand the majority of what she had to say but she has A LOT to say about her sweet little “grandbaby.” Then she spoke words I knew well, “Nay Mama, Nay Mama” with tears streaming down her faced. I promised we would find a family for him, I stayed kneeling down with his tiny little fingers clutching mine for over 45 minutes, tears silently streaming down my face. I literally had to pry his fingers from mine, hugged his baba with an understanding and promise that didn’t need words, we would be back for him, we cried together and said goodbye. I skyped Dan from the hotel that night and all I said was “I met our son today” and he said “Then we better get started”, no questions asked.
Update: The Novit family will also be bringing home Millie!!
4/16/14—AWAITING TRAVEL DATES
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at iwillcometoyou-john14-18.blogspot.com
HUDSON for the Settles family — WA
Stacey and Daniell met at a 4th of July gathering, they were immediately smitten with each other and married almost one year later. After 9 years of marriage they have three amazing little boys and are looking forward to adding another little one to their mix. Stacey spent the last 15 years honorably serving in the United States Navy as a Quartermaster. He has been on numerous deployments and enjoys his job. Daniell is a stay at home mom who spends a great majority of her time educating their children. When she’s not educating, you can find her snapping photos or creating something in the kitchen.
For over four years they discussed domestic adoption and even completed the training courses but Daniell got pregnant with their third child just as Stacey was leaving on a deployment, so they decided to wait. It wasn’t until Daniell went on a trip to pick up her best friend’s newly adopted children in Eastern Europe that her passion was reignited, Stacey followed suit soon after. What were idle discussions, turned into prayers and serious consideration, then in late October they started searching for a child they could add to their family. They found an amazing little boy in Russia and started the process, but no sooner did they start, Russia closed its doors. With heart break of Russia closing and their family facing a military move they decided to once again, put adoption on hold. They continued to advocate for orphans, support the families adopting and pray for them all. For Daniell, this included daily visits to the Reece’s Rainbow website to pray and oogle over all those sweet babies who needed families to love them. She couldn’t resist them, especially the smiling little face of Hudson, he called to her heart.
With their move edging closer Stacey and Daniell faced numerous decisions, including where to live once they moved and what to do with the home they own. They talked and came up with several different contingency plans, one of which was a plan for the family to stay behind until their home could be either rented or sold. But, none of their plans seemed to settle in their hearts as the right choice. So, as they do with all major decisions, they began to pray that God would show them which path to take. Don’t you know, without hesitation the Lord opened the door and shined the brightest of lights onto their path. Their plans to adopt were back! They immediately knew that they could finally add Hudson’s smiling face to their family and love him as every little boy deserves to be loved.
Stacey is still scheduled to report to his new duty station in mid November, meaning this family needs to move quickly. Please, consider giving, praying and simply joining the Settles family on their journey to bring Hudson home.
4/2/14—LOA RECVD
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at sailingtoourstarfish.blogspot.com
CHANNAH for the Monier family — FL
The Monier Family is excited to add another color to their family from Reece’s Rainbow: PINK!
Eric and Jenny have been married for 11 years and have four boys: Jeremiah, Dima, Elijah, and Sammy. Dima joined their family in August of 2011 when they adopted him from Ukraine. From the day after Jenny and Dima landed on U.S. soil the boys have repeatedly asked, “So when will we finally get a sister?” Their prayers have been heard and answered!
Since Dima’s adoption the Monier Family has continued to advocate for the children listed on Reece’s Rainbow. Eric and Jenny were drawn specifically to Channah, however, while they were going through testing for their youngest, Sammy. It had been thought that Sammy had a mild form of Cerebral Palsy thus they researched the condition to learn as much as they could. While it has been determined that Sammy does not have any form of CP they continued to pray for Channah and hoped that a family would come forward for her. God had a wonderful plan in store for the Monier’s and Channah in that they were meant to be her family! The Scripture Proverbs 24:12 played a large part in nudging them in the right direction: “Once our eyes are opened, we can’t pretend we don’t know what to do. God who weighs our hearts and keeps our souls, knows that we know, and holds us responsible to act.”
Eric, Jenny, and the boys have quite a bit of experience with individuals with special needs. Not only had Eric been an ESE teacher before his call into ministry, but their son, Dima, has Down Syndrome. Their family also works with adults and children with special needs at their church through a group called the Love Department. Each week the Monier’s serve about 70 adults and a few children through teaching, singing, art, and lots of love. The special needs adults are affiliated with an amazing organization, The Key Training Center, that helps with job training, offers independent and assisted living, and life skills. Not only will Channah have a family of her own, but an amazing support network as she grows into an adult.
The Monier Family is thrilled to finally be adding a girl to their family and humbly ask that you prayerfully consider donating to their adoption. Most importantly they ask that you keep them as well as Channah in prayer through each step of the way.
4/11/14—LOA RECVD
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at mondaymorningchristians.blogspot.com
AUTUMN and ABBY for the Fraley family — OH
Aaron and Julie first met in seminary and have been married for 17 years now. They have two biological children – Winter (12) and Noah (10). Aaron is a pastor and Julie is working for the local school system.
When Aaron was in seminary he tried to make a few deals with God. First, he told God that he would do anything for Him – except be a youth pastor. Second, he would do whatever that was anywhere in the world- except India. Well, God has a really great sense of humor. After graduating from seminary, Aaron took a job as an accounting clerk with the University of Maryland, biding his time and waiting for a ministry opportunity to open up. Four years later, he really was ready to do anything just to be in ministry…. even be a youth pastor in the inner city. And guess what, he loved it! During those years working for the university, Aaron met his best and lifelong friend, Suresh, whose family is from India. Do you hear God giggling yet? Because this man who wanted to do anything but work with kids or go to India is now desperate to go to India and become a father to more kids.
For Julie, it began at age 12 when her mom took the family on a missions trip to Mexico. It was there in the hotel pool that she was baptized and felt that she was called to the ministry. Every summer following this, Julie traveled with missions teams working in orphanages throughout Mexico and Guatemala. She attended seminary and married Aaron and 2 kids later, the passion for orphans and adoption was still burning in her heart. Right around the time that things were looking financial stable and they were ready to pursue adoption, Julie’s father became ill. She quit her job so that she could care for him in his own home, as was his wish. Julie’s father was also adopted (domestically as an infant). The years caring for him were overwhelming, but priceless. When he passed away, Aaron and Julie took the inheritance they received and used it for the upfront adoption costs. Now, not only will a lifelong dream of Julie’s heart be fulfilled, but her father’s legacy will be carried on as his granddaughters are adopted into this loving family.
1/31/14—WAITING FOR TRAVEL DATES
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at cardamomandpoprika.blogspot.com
ARMANDO for the Short family — OK
Margo is a Christian woman and family medicine doctor who desired to be a mother. God provided that opportunity in 2009 with her first adoption from Ethiopia. She now has three daughters adopted from Ethiopia, ages 9, 5, and 3. Her 3 year old has Down syndrome. By the grace of God and love of her family and ffriends, this little girl went from only being able to roll over, to being able to sit up, crawl, then walk, sign, and speak a few words, all within 1 year.
Margo and her daughters are excited to add a precious boy to their family!
12/15/13–DOSSIER SUBMITTED
KYLE for the Anzaldua family — NC
Mark and Nuria Anzaldua, also known as Janeth, are high school sweet hearts which have been married for 8 years and have 4 beautiful children and one has Down Syndrome. Mark is in the Marine Corps, and has been for about 8 years and plans to make it a career and Janeth is currently a medical assistant/EMT. They are stationed in North Carolina, but have orders to relocate to California next summer. Mark and Janeth did not plan to adopt but somehow ended up on Reeces Rainbow looking at the pictures of all the children that are in need of a family. Searching through the older kids pictures they saw this little boy that resembled their son so much and could not help but feel this overwhelming sadness in their heart for him. From that point on all they did was think about him, and how he would fit perfectly in their family. Without thinking twice they decided they need to bring him home. He was going to be an Anzaldua! God was telling them this was their son and they needed to save him, to bring him home where he belongs, not in a mental institute.
Mark and Janeth, as well as their children, are very excited to bring this little boy into their family and give him the love he deserves.
4/3/14—WAITING FOR TRAVEL DATES
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at dschangedmyife.blogspot.com
CATHERINE for the Cowan family — IL
Chris and Amy have been blessed in their marriage and have 9 wonderful kids, Britney, 24, Pam, 22, Sierra, 14, Ainslee, 11, Kara, 8, Reagan, 6, Lawson, 5, Hadley, 3, and Jackson, 2. Chris is a farmer and Amy is blessed to be able to stay home and take care of her family. Since they both came from a large family, they love and appreciate having a large family. Although they had thought about adopting for several years, when God blessed them with Hadley, they knew they wanted to adopt another child with Down Syndrome. After praying and searching, the whole Cowan family fell in love with Catherine from China. She is a beautiful three year old girl with an amazing smile!
Please support them by praying for Catherine, who will be called Annabelle. Pray for her safety and health. Pray that the process goes smoothly and quickly, so they can get their daughter/sister home! Thank you!
4/17/14—USCIS APPROVED, HOPE TO TRAVEL IN MAY
STEVEN for the Davis family — UT
Taylor and Katie met at Brigham Young University on the very first day of college as freshmen. After a couple of really fun years dating and Taylor serving a mission for the LDS church, they were married in August of 2005. They have four incredible children ages 7, 5, 3, and 1, and are excited to make it five. Katie is a stay-at-home mom and loves it. Taylor works as a Statistician at KLAS Research. As a family the Davises are happiest when they are spending time together. For the past few years Taylor and Katie have felt that adoption would be part of their family’s story and they are thankful for the experiences they are having as they work to make Steven part of their family. They have already learned a lot from their adoption journey and they love this little boy and look forward to their future with him.
1/13/14—DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at tkdavis.blogspot.com
ROSE for the Bruno family — AL
After dating for 9 years, Katie and Paul were married in Birmingham, Alabama on July 26, 2003. Katie’s occupation is a stay at home mother to their two sons. Paul is the owner of a classic car restoration business.
Soon after they married they wanted to have children, but Katie was diagnosed with an uterine anomaly and was told not to have children. At this point they began their domestic home study. Soon after they had completed their home study, they became pregnant with their first son, Paul Vincent, born on April 13, 2006 at 4 pounds, 7 ounces. He just celebrated his sixth birthday. Three years later, they welcomed their second miracle baby boy, Christopher, born May 24, 2009 at 3 pounds, 2 ounces. He will soon celebrate his third birthday.
This past Christmas, they learned that they were pregnant, only to suffer a devastating miscarriage shortly after. They know that God has a plan for their family and they feel a strong connection to Rose. They both feel called to adopt her and feel confident that she will receive all of the love and services (as a child with special needs) that she desires!
In the past year, Katie and Paul have completed two addendums and are currently awaiting the news regarding an appeal to Rose’s region. They have been fighting so hard to bring her home. Please pray with them. May 2014 be a year of blessing for all!
4/12/14—OFFICIAL MATCH RECVD
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog http://heavenslittlerose.blogspot.com/
ZECHARIAH for the Czerkes family — AZ
Heidi and Mike have been married for 8 years, and have three biological children, all boys. The past few years, however, they’d felt a pull on their hearts to adopt a child with special needs into their family. Both felt that their family not only had the love and nurture to give to another child, but that they had the ability and skills to care for a child with special needs.
After much prayer and discernment, Heidi and Mike decided to start the adoption process and to welcome a little angel into their family. Almost unbelievably quickly, their prayers were answered with the picture of an adorable little boy. God’s call to love and nurture this child grew stronger with every minute that the email sat open on the computer. Heidi and Mike (and the boys) are excited to journey towards bringing their little angel home. God has blessed them with an incredible home and family to share, and they are confidant that He will continue to provide for this little one to come home. Your prayers and financial support are appreciated more than Heidi and Mike could ever express. Bringing their son home is a tremendous responsibility (and joy!), and they will be forever grateful for your support on the journey. God has created a home full of adventurous, giggling little boys, and is leading Zechariah home!
4/18/13—TRAVELING MAY 28
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at bringingtheohome.blogspot.com
OLIVER and KALLI for the Hudson family — KY
July 2013 marked the 15th wedding anniversary of Jon and Christella Hudson, and 18 truly wonderful years together! At the ages of 17 and 15, they met and have been inseparable since! God has blessed their marriage with love, acceptance, support, patience, forgiveness, and friendship. They are a Kentucky couple with a burden on their hearts for orphans. God placed that burden in their lives through orphan aid trips to El Salvador. They believe the Bible clearly gives all Christians a mandate to care for orphans, and that He has provided adoption as the best means for their family to obey this command. They love children, especially the little ones He has already entrusted in their care: 9-year-old and 5-year-old daughters, and a 3-year-old son born in South Korea.
The Hudson’s also believe a loving and nurturing family environment is the most conducive to allowing children to become caring, responsible citizens who make the world a better place. They say, “The Bible shows us from the very beginning that God intended for human beings to be in a family where they received love, support, and companionship. There are simply too many children in this world without families and homes. We have decided we cannot sit by and do nothing when we have the love of Christ in our hearts, and the commission to share Him with the world. We have a close-knit family where we understand love is not biological.” God is blessing their family again through a match with a beautiful 4-year-old boy and a precious 2-year-old girl currently living in China! Oliver and Kalli have stolen their entire families hearts, as well as their friends and church family. Oliver has the special need of albinism, which the Hudson’s have thoroughly researched. Kalli has been diagnosed with a mild case of cerebral palsy, as well as oxygen deprivation at birth. They are committed to providing any medical procedures, therapies, or treatments needed. They will do everything possible with the resources we have to help both children grow healthy physically, mentally, and emotionally. They believe their home, neighborhood, extended family, and lifestyle are all suited for their special needs.
Since making their decision to adopt, they hit the ground running on fundraising. A job change this year significantly lessened their income, but the Lord is showing His provision regardless. They have held numerous fundraisers, taken on additional part-time jobs, applied for over 10 grants, and are now looking at loan options. They currently need about $13,000 to complete their adoptions. The Hudson’s would like to express their sincere appreciation to anyone considering donating toward their adoption expenses!!
4/9/14—I800 APPROVAL
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at afamilymadebylove.blogspot.com
DARLA for the Solano family — CA
Five years ago, our family was blessed with our son, Gabriel. He was born with Down syndrome, along with vision, hearing, digestive and other issues. From the onset, our challenges as a family have been many but it didn’t take us long to realize something in the process: the love we have received from our son has far exceeded any obstacle his challenges have brought. Instead, Gabriel has taught us to be more patient, less selfish and most of all, to have more fun! If that wasn’t enough, Gabriel’s unconditional love and Godly spirit has helped our family grow closer in love than we ever knew was possible.
Over the last three years, our family has considered adopting another child with DS, primarily because of our desire to become parents again but realizing both Gabriel and our new child would aid each other in so many levels: emotionally, intellectually, socially and physically. After much discussion and prayer, we have decided to take a leap of faith. Her name is Darla and she is in China. This sweet 1 1/2 year old has already endured heart surgery but has recovered well and is healthy. We understand she responds to her name, makes eye contact and is very alert. Darla is even starting to walk with help!
It is common knowledge that many countries, including developed nations such as China, still do not regard those with special needs as our country does. Special needs orphans, if not adopted young, are routinely released to the streets by their sixteenth birthday. It is a heartbreaking crisis as these physically or mentally delayed individuals have no means of survival. They are often abused and die of starvation. My heart literally breaks at the thought of a precious soul suffering in this manner, all because they are not considered “normal.” As a family, we realize we can’t right this travesty ourselves, but we can save this one little “starfish.”
As we’ve witnessed from many who have traveled this road before, the international adoption process is complicated, lengthy and financially draining. Our family is not rich, and while this process could prove to be taxing in more ways than one, we’re not about to give up just because of the challenges we will face. Our precious Gabriel has taught us that.
That is why we are asking for your help. We understand our economy is just beginning to rebound, and like us, you may feel the financial pinch or even live “paycheck to paycheck.” But whatever your financial situation is, we humbly ask you to consider helping us rescue Darla. No donation is too small to help, and the rewards your heart will feel will be worth its weight in gold!
Thank you for reading this, and for forwarding this link to as many people as possible. Most of all, thank you for your consideration in helping us assure Darla doesn’t end up like so many other precious souls. With your help, we’ll bring our little starfish home very soon!
4/18/14—HOPE TO TRAVEL IN JUNE
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at bringdarlahome.com
You don’t have to adopt to make a difference!
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ABC NEWS: Hidden Angels
Diane Sawyer reports on the adoption of Mia Cox:
