Almost There
.
|  |
|
Because every family deserves the blessing of a child with Down Syndrome... |
 |
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!
2/25/14—STILL WAITING FOR LOA
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at journeyoftheheart5.blogspot.com
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.
11/25/13—DOSSIER EN ROUTE (DTC)
MARGARET for the Thorp family — TX
Ben and Tracy met as teenagers through Scouts. They became pen pals and stayed in touch by writing (since they lived on opposite sides of Texas!). After a couple of years hiatus of not writing, Tracy decided to start writing Ben again while he was on a Navy deployment. They fell in love after that and have now been married for 17 years. Ben works as a Utility Forester and Tracy stays at home and homeschools their 4 biological children (ages 15, 9, 5, and 3). Both have had adoption on their hearts for years, but had not expected Reece’s Rainbow to be where God would lead them. Tracy had always been moved to adopt from the Russia area while Ben had thought of adopting domestically one day. A deployment to the Horn of Africa with the Navy changed Ben’s thinking about children overseas. While there, he was able to volunteer to work at a boys’ orphanage and was moved by the plight of children overseas. The Thorp’s children were also able to help by collecting items for the orphanage which Ben then gave to the base Chaplain’s office to distribute. The adoption snowball has been rolling ever since.
Please pray for Margaret and Merry, and for this family as they work to bring these precious girls home – together – to their Forever Family. Any financial support you can give no matter how big or small would be greatly appreciated as it helps to bring these girls that much closer to being home.
UPDATE: Merry passed away in early 2014. The family is deeply saddened, and moving forward to bring Margaret home to a loving family.
2/27/14—DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at alwaysroom4love.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.
2/21/14—DOSSIER SUBMITTED (LID)
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
STEVE for the Smith family — WA
Joel and Alicia met in late 2004, and were married just over a year later on the beautiful island of Kauai. After a few years of living a relatively quiet life in North Bend, WA with their 2 huskies, they welcomed their daughter Brenna in 2010. A surprisingly short time after that, they brought home their son Evan in 2011.
Joel was happily working in the energy efficiency field while Alicia worked from home on the online toy store she owns with her mom and sister, and they thought their family was complete. Then in early 2013, they both felt that God was leading them to look into international adoption, and they soon found a little boy that stole their hearts! Now they are hoping and diligently praying that this little man from China will soon make them a family of 5.
1/31/14—LOA RECVD
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at aperfectfamily.wordpress.com
THEO, ORION & BARTON for the Bloom family — OH
Christian and Kayleigh are very excited to be on this journey! They have talked about adopting since they were first married, but the time has never been right. When they began discussing it again recently, things started coming together in ways that they never could have imagined. They decided that was their sign to jump in! They have been working hard to get all of their paperwork and training completed. Now they have completed most of the work they are responsible for, and they have more time to focus on fundraising while they wait for all of their approvals and their invitation to travel!
They already have four wonderful children at home, and they can’t wait to add to their family. They are in awe of how amazing Theo is, and can’t wait to meet him. Now they will also be bringing Orion home! They are both loving boys who have waited for families for a very long time. These boys have grown up together at the same institution, and now they are going to be brothers. Isn’t that exciting?
UPDATE: They will also be adopting Barton, an incredible young man who aged out back in December. Their family is one of very few whose paperwork makes them eligible to adopt him, and they are thrilled to see what his future holds.
The Bloom family would appreciate any financial support or prayer you can offer as they proceed on this adventure.
2/13/14—DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Follow the Bloom family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://handsfullofblooms.blogspot.com/
RAELYNN for the Yost family — AL
On their wedding day, Tabitha and Warren vowed to devote their marriage to serving the Lord. As they began to explore ways to fulfill the biblical command to care for orphans, God led them to a Know More Orphans conference. They knew that adoption was something they would do someday, but after speaking with a representative for Reece’s Rainbow at the conference, they realized they had no reason to wait. They are beyond excited to serve the Lord in a way that will bring such a sweet blessing into their lives.
2/28/14—DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://deardanila.blogspot.com/
FULLY FUNDED!!!
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
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!
2/28/14—LOA RECVD
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
ABRAHAM for the Bailey family — SC
This little sweetheart is “Abraham” and he is one of God’s masterpieces! He has spent his whole life in an orphanage in Eastern Europe, waiting for his family. Tragically, children with special needs in Eastern Europe can be transferred to an adult mental institution at an early age, so “Abraham” really needs a family who will love him, care for him, and be blessed by him.
The Baileys were joined in Holy Matrimony in 2003, and welcomed their first two biological children in 2004 and 2007. Then, in 2009, right around the time that “Abraham” was born halfway around the world, the Baileys felt God calling them to expand their family through adoption. They had just welcomed their third biological child and due to other circumstances at the time, they could not actively pursue adoption. They prayed to discern the “when” of God’s call to adopt and eagerly awaited the day that they would be able to take more active steps to expand their family through adoption. The family was blessed with the arrival of their fourth biological child in 2012, and after much prayerful discernment (and more than one push of divine providence), the Baileys were able to start the process to adopt “Abraham” in June 2013. They feel immensely blessed and humbled to have been chosen by God to be “Abraham’s” family and cannot wait to hold their precious boy in their arms.
The Baileys can’t adequately express how much they appreciate any prayers for “Abraham” as he waits in the orphanage, and for their adoption process to go smoothly. And can you spare a donation of even a few dollars to help make this family’s dream a reality and give this little boy a chance to know the love of a Daddy, Mommy, brothers, and a sister? Each and every donation, no matter the size, is greatly appreciated!
“And anyone who welcomes a little child like this on my behalf is welcoming me.” ~Matthew 18:5
2/10/14—DOSSIER EN ROUTE
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at blagodarya.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.
2/14/14—DOSSIER SUBMITTED (LID)
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at sailingtoourstarfish.blogspot.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
MACI for the Powell family — VA
This journey has many beginnings. By His grace, God called Jim and Tisha each to new life in Christ and brought them together in marriage. From 1998 to 2011, He taught them selflessness and provided an object lesson on the infinite nature of love through the blessings of eight biological children. By making these blessings all girls, He showed them how delightfully fun life could be.
In 2012, as He called the couple to adopt a special-needs child, God taught them about the obedience of faith and the unexpected joys that accompany even modest (but genuine) sacrifices. Most recently, He has graciously taught them that following Christ in faith and in joyful obedience is a journey that doesn’t end … at least, not yet. There is always MORE … more to pray for, more to do, more to give for His glory.
As they pursue a second adoption, Jim and Tisha are thankful to their local church for its compelling call to “90 Days of Generosity,” to their nine girls for the encouragement they have given to such imperfect parents, and to their Heavenly Father for His great grace and the living hope He has given us in Christ.
2/24/14—DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at addingtoourblessings.
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
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
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
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/
TAVIN for the Anders family — VA
Steve and Chrystal met as bridesmaid and groomsman in a wedding 13 years ago. A short year and a half later they were married and stepping out on a lifelong journey together. Steve’s career brings him in close contact to at risk youth, everyday, and he sees firsthand the need for a strong, loving family structure that can provide a safe and secure environment for children to live. Chrystal is a stay-at-home mom, home schooling their oldest son, who just started kindergarten. She also serves on the board of directors for a non profit organization that raises money to build safe homes and care for orphans around the world.
While dating, they found out that both of them had a desire to adopt at some point in their lives. Five years later, as they tried unsuccessfully to start a family, they wondered if adoption would be a reality sooner, rather than later. God blessed them, however, with their first biological son, who is now 6. He is such a sweet and caring boy, and is a joy and blessing greater than they could have ever imagined! Three and a half years later they welcomed their second son, now almost 3. He is spunky, rambunctious, full of life, and makes every day an adventure. Through the years, each would express the continued desire to adopt “at some point”, but those conversations never developed into action. As they prayed about adding to their family again, they felt the Lord leading them towards adoption. They announced their decision to their families and friends, and began exploring the process and options for adoption. Chrystal came across Reece’s Rainbow early in their search, which started to stir the desire in their hearts to adopt a waiting child.
Fast forward through five months of prayer, research, hoping, and doubting (lots of doubting!), until one day when Chrystal came across Tavin’s profile. They couldn’t get him out of their minds. There was something in his eyes that captured their hearts. They knew they needed to do everything they could, to make him a part of their family, and they began their journey.
Adoption is like skydiving – totally worth it…but its hard to jump out of the plane! They have finally jumped. Will you help them land?
2/13/14—DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at daffodilsandearthworms.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!
2/8/14—STILL WAITING FOR TRAVEL DATES
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog http://heavenslittlerose.blogspot.com/
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.”
2/14/14—DOSSIER SUBMITTED (LID)
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at xin-wang-ai-jia.blogspot.com
JOSIE for a family in MT
2/10/14—LOA RECVD
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at lovinglifeonourfunnyfarm.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
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!
10/18/13—MATCHING APPROVAL RECVD
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at http://bringingtheohome.blogspot.com/
GWENDOLYN for the Goocher family — GA
Isaac and Amy have been married for 7 years! They have five biological children, Elizabeth, Naomi, Abigail, Maverick and one little princess in heaven, Eden. They always dreamed of having a big family and knew from the beginning that adoption would play a role in growing their family. They had considered adopting a special needs child even before their sweet Eden was born. She suffered a severe birth injury resulting in a diagnosis of cerebral palsy. She was very medically fragile and passed away at age 2.
When their family saw beautiful Gwendolyn on Reece’s Rainbow, they knew she was the one! Gwendolyn has been diagnosed with cerebral palsy. They are so excited to make her a part of their family. The Goocher family realizes the amazing value that special needs children have and they firmly believe that every child deserves the love of a family. They have a lot of knowledge and skills to help her thrive to her fullest, and look forward to nurturing and loving her. Unfortunately, there is no hope for Gwendolyn to reach her full potential in her current Eastern European orphanage. She will soon be transferred to live out the rest of her life in an adult mental institution. They feel truly blessed to be able to adopt her and make her a part of their family. Please partner with the Goocher family in bringing this precious child of God home to her forever family. Donations and prayers are deeply appreciated! Thank you!!!
2/6/14—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
JEREMY for the Speicher family — PA
Dave and Kathy met in 2001. Both were single parents to 7 and 5 year olds. After two years of courtship they married and made an instant family of 6. They soon started the process to adopt each others children. One year later the papers were signed and they felt their family was complete. They worked on strengthening their blended family.
In 2007, the family was shocked to find they were expecting another child. In the spring of 2008 a little girl was born to the family that was truly the “tie that binds.” She was the bond between everyone. God blessed them! Little did they know, God had more plans for the Speichers. In August of 2011, their sixth child was born five weeks early. After the dust settled on his early entrance, the family was informed that their youngest bundle of joy had Down Syndrome. Though they desperately loved their youngest child, they didn’t know how to feel. So their newborn led the charge, and showed them that life was okay and that an extra chromosome was just different, not bad. The whole family was very happy and fulfilled. People often joked about them having”his-hers-ours, you just need a ‘theirs’ to complete the family.”
Through new local Down Syndrome contacts, the name Reece’s Rainbow would soon be discussed. Kathy searched their website to understand why so many people interested in it. She scrolled through the pictures and prayed for those children. Then she came to to a picture of a little boy. God brought her to her knees. There was a line from a popular worship song that kept echoing through her head; “break our hearts for what breaks Yours!” Kathy knew that was God telling her to go and do. She proposed the adoption to Dave. Dave is one to analyze and process ideas and so had to really be in prayer about adoption. Two months of prayer resulted in God revealing to Dave this was the right thing to do. So now as they work through the paperwork to bring home their 7th child, they ask that you pray for their journey. If you feel lead to help financially, the family would certainly be grateful!
2/24/14—DOSSIER EN ROUTE
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at 9willbejustfine.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!!
1/25/14—WAITING FOR TRAVEL DATES
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at afamilymadebylove.blogspot.com
VERONIKA and EMILIJA for the Jenks family — WA
Mark and Rebecca are the proud parents of six children; four biological children and their youngest two, who have Down syndrome, were adopted just last summer from Ukraine. The Jenks family thought that if their family grew again it would be another young child, and more than likely from foster care. Sometimes God points you in unexpected ways, because God had other plans. Rebecca kept feeling drawn back to Reece’s Rainbow and the girls age 10+. They had not even been home a full year when Rebecca noticed an preteen girl with Down syndrome and once again her heart skipped a beat, but Rebecca threw off the idea with her being so much older. That night, Rebecca and Mark prayed and asked God, “Break our hearts for what breaks yours, Lord!” The following day Rebecca asked about Veronika and the response she got from that inquiry was overwhelming. When Rebecca found out that Veronika had been listed on Reece’s Rainbow since BEFORE 2010, instantly she knew that this was the next child to join the Jenks Clan. Mark and Rebecca never imagined they would be working on another adoption in less than a year, but the Lord’s plans were greater than their own. They ask for your prayers as they embark on this journey, and if you feel lead to help bring Veronika home, please know that no gift is too small and they are thankful for any help you can offer! Veronika has waited twelve years to become part of a family. We can not let her wait any longer.
1/14/13—DOSSIER EN ROUTE
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at becauseyouareloved.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
DUNHAM and EDGAR for the Quinn family — FL
Martin and Jennifer Quinn have been a couple for 12 years. They live in Florida and have three children, Alexis 19, Austin 15 and Gage 7 weeks! When they met, Marty had custody of his 3 year old son Austin, and Jennifer had custody of her 7 year old daughter Alexis. Sadly neither of their biological parents were involved. Jen and Marty married and raised their children together for 11 years. Together they provided them with the love and stability they needed. Last year they realized their children were getting older and no longer needed their constant attention. They were still young and couldn’t imagine having a silent house! One without laughter, children, and toys….. There were so many children in need. Without Mom’s and Dad’s to love, comfort and provide for them. They decided to embark on their adoption journey this January when they found out they were expecting!! They put their adoption research on hold and September 13th gave birth to their beautiful baby boy. They knew their next step was to adopt! Baby Gage needs playmates! They knew immediately when they saw Dunham that he was the one! Afraid to get their hopes up that Dunham would reside in their Country of choice (Ukraine) they requested information on two other young boys as well. When they received the response that Dunham was the only one of the three located in Ukraine they knew it was a sign from God that he was their son! Their older children are as excited as they are to meet their new brother and bring him home to meet his playmate and best friend forever, Gage. Their journey as parents is continuing and they are overjoyed at the blessings they have received. They know God’s hand is at work and they are his faithful and obedient followers.
After some prayer and an approved home study for two the Quinn’s committed to another little boy they had been praying over, Edgar! There will now be 7 Quinn’s!
If you have been following Dunham or Edgar and praying for them to find a family, we would love for you to be a part of our journey. Please do not hesitate to contact us on Facebook at “Bringing Home Dunham”! God Bless!
1/30/2014— DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at walknfaithquinnfamily.blogspot.com
PETER for the Lanz family — OH
Ethan and Randy are the “Seasoned” parents of ten children, six biological and four through special needs adoption. Most of their children are grown ups now with families of their own. Ethan and Randy returned from China in May of 2013 with Abigail (6) and Jen (7), and were taken by surprise to discover they aren’t done yet! “Peter” a ten year old boy cared for by An Orphan’s Wish, captivated their hearts and their minds. Try as they might they could not shake the feeling that he was to be part of their family also. Through a sequence of events that they could not have orchestrated themselves, it became clear that they were to step out in faith and make this young man their son.
While they are very excited to make “Peter” (whom they will call Isaac) their son, there is much to be done, both in raising the funds needed to finance another international adoption and also to make their home and vehicle wheelchair accessible. They ask for your prayers as they being this journey again and invite you to follow along on their blog.
3/5/14—TRAVEL APPROVAL RECVD
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at lanzadoptionadventure.blogspot.com
MOSES for Aaron and Jenny — GA
“Behold, you shall call a nation that you do not know, and a nation that did not know you shall run to you, because of the LORD your God, and of the Holy One of Israel, for He has glorified you.” –Isaiah 55:5
Aaron and Jenny live in beautiful north Georgia and have been married for eight years. God has richly blessed them with three precious children. Their oldest son is five, their second born son is three, and their newly adopted baby girl will soon be two. In January 2011 Jenny read the book, “Choosing to See” by Mary Beth Chapman. Her eyes were opened to the plight of orphans worldwide and she knew in her heart that their next child would be adopted. Through much prayer and research Aaron and Jenny’s hearts became tender to “defend the weak and the fatherless.” After only nine months Aaron and Jenny welcomed their gorgeous daughter into the family through the miracle of adoption.
Aaron and Jenny are grieved to be caught in the middle of the Russian adoption ban. They were in the process of bringing precious Vitaliy home when they were blind sided by the new legislation. Sweet Vitaliy is four years old and has Down Syndrome as well as several heart conditions. Vitaliy calls them, “Mama and Papa” and is waiting on them to come bring him home. Please continue to pray for mercy on Vitaliy’s behalf as Aaron and Jenny continue the fight for him. While they continue to wait on Russia, they have been led to bring little Moses home from Uganda. He is about a year old and has Cerebral Palsy and Hydrocephalus. Aaron, Jenny, and the kids are overjoyed at this amazing gift they have been given and cannot wait to have Moses home with them. They would be so grateful for your support in bringing him home.
“…In You the orphan finds mercy.” -Hosea 14:3
10/17/2013—AWAITING COURT DATE
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at whatisunseeniseternal.blogspot.com
BRANDY and BRIELLE for the Casebier family –
Gary and Terri have been married for 12 years and have 4 children through adoption. When they had started the Ch*na adoption process in 2006 for their first child, they had planned on receiving a referral for a little girl and wanted to adopt many more as well. When the Ch*na non-special needs line slowed down, they stayed steady since their agency did not have a special needs program in Ch*na. They decided to adopt other children while they waited for their little girl. They ended up bringing home a surprise referral of a little girl from Russ*a with cl/cp and then a few years later, two more through embryo adoption from the US before their referral in Ch*na finally came in the Spring of 2012 as a little boy instead of the girl they had planned.
They were thrilled with him and thought that they were finished, but as they continued to watch other friends bring home their little girls, they realized that they were not done. The little girl they had planned on HADN’T come home!
So in early 2013, they started the process again to find their daughter. They wanted not one but two, but finances lead them to think that they should just adopt one at a time. An older one, just under the age of their daughter from Russ*a would be the first. As they looked they encountered many girls available and they found it challenging to figure out which child would best fit their family, so that all of them could grow together in the best ways. So, they tried to wait for a referral from their agency.
In July, their agency did send them a referral. But for an almost two year old girl. Amazed by her, and the fact that her referral mirrored their surprise Russ*an daughters referral, they could not turn her down. So now, instead of one girl, they were going for the two they originally knew they were supposed to bring home.
Even before they could consider the financial issues, they still had to find their older daughter. The agency did not have any older children in their partnerships, so the family went back to the shared list to search her out. They came to RR in their search, but it wasn’t until an advocate explained Brandy’s needs more that they truly realized she would be a perfect fit!
Both girls would be shunned in Asia merely for their facial scars, and this is not the way anyone should live, let alone the innocent. There are so many families looking for the “perfect” child…or the child that looks perfect at least. This family wanted more. They wanted the child that was a perfect fit with personality, needs, and the whole package. As it is, both of these girls will be able to use the same doctors that their daughter from Russ*a already uses. There are lots of surgeries for both girls, therapy, and other things that the institutionalized children typically have to endure. But they will do it all together and get through each step as it comes.
They know that God has been in control of this entire process and know that He will see it through in His way. They are nearing the end of the very long journey so that these girls can have a forever family. Recently they found out that Brandy has been “latching on” to the people that come into the orphanage and calling them “Baba” or daddy. She so LONGS to be home, and this family longs to bring her home as quickly as possible. As they complete this journey, your prayers and help in any way are greatly appreciated.
3/3/14—WAITING ON ARTICLE 5
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at lovejer2911.blogspot.com
MAELIE for the Olsen family — TN
Lisa and Paul have been married for 17 years. They have three biological children. Their boys (ages 7 and 9) are GREAT big brothers to their baby sister (almost 2) who happens to be a princess with Down Syndrome. The Olsens tried to adopt internationally a few years ago, but the country closed its doors to adoptions with the United States while they were in the process. They were unable to complete their adoption, which was devastating. Lisa’s heart remained tender towards adoption, but they were very reluctant to go down that path again. After the birth of their daughter, they discovered Reece’s Rainbow. Lisa visited the site often, looking at the waiting children and reading about the incredible families who opened their homes and hearts to orphans with special needs. The Olsens spent months waiting and praying, wondering if God was calling them to step out in faith and begin the adoption process again. One little girl in particular touched Paul’s heart. Even then, Paul said “God would have to hit him over the head with a shovel” to convince him it was time to move forward. Well, Paul’s head is still tingling! God flung the doors wide open for the Olsens to step forward to adopt Maelie! The Olsen family is humbled and excited to begin their adoption journey and welcome another princess into their home!
12/29/13—STILL WAITING FOR TRAVEL DATES
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.
2/25/14—USCIS APPROVED
Follow the Mounts family’s adoption journey on their blog at addingtotheAteam.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
A child for Marc and Katie — SC
Marc and Katie have been married for six years and adoption has always been an important part of their lives. As an infant, Marc was in foster care and later adopted. Marc and Katie were foster parents with their state department of social services and they adopted their oldest daughter through the foster care system. They now have three children, one through adoption, and two by birth. Marc and Katie thought that their family of five was complete, however they realized that God had other plans for their family as He placed adoption on their hearts once again. The couple spent increasing amounts of time researching international adoption, and they began to prayerfully consider what it would mean to open their lives up to a child with special needs. Your prayers are appreciated as they place their trust in God and follow Him on this journey.
2/24/14—DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at isaiah40vs31.wordpress.com
MURRAY and ANTHONY for the Dewberry family — NC
The Dewberry’s are a family of 5 and have 3 amazing adopted children from Ukraine. Joe and Nicole have a heart for aging out youth and special needs children as two of their children have HIV. Serving others, working with youth and serving in Ukraine has been the heart and passion of this family. This last year has been whirlwind for the Dewberry’s as they set out to adopt aging out teens in which none made it home for different reasons. They had their dossier submitted in April 2014 and the day it was submitted the teen they prepared it for Brodie made the decision to stay in Ukraine being he wanted to be an only child in a family. The Dewberry’s could not offer him that. The decision for the Dewberrys came down to do they remove their dossier which had already submitted or trust God that He got it in before Brodie said no for a reason other then they clearly could not see. The night before they went to request to have their dossier pulled Nicole was in prayer asking God for clarity in this decision being they were over half way funded to bring Brodie home and their dossier submitted and yet no child to bring home. Then an email came in from a friend of the Dewberry’s who has been a huge prayer warrior for them through every battle and she mentioned all the many children still in need of homes in Ukraine because people were scared to go with all the political unrest in the country. She did not mean for them to go on and look to adopt but God meant them to. Two boys that are HIV positive jumped out at Nicole that she had seen advocated for by friends. She had thought they had families but they did not. After many exchanges of emails about the boys with their friends and the RR team it became clear the direction God was asking them to go this one last time. The Dewberry’s for their family specifically they know this is this last time for them to adopt, this is their last dossier as they are ready to be home with their children and focus on their family. They will continue as God leads for missions work in Ukraine as a family as Ukraine is their second home and ever so dear to their heart.
So please follow their journey as they return to Ukraine trusting God to bring home safely Anthony and Murray to their family waiting for them with open arms.
3/9/14—DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at www.andthisonematters.blogspot
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!!
3/6/14—DOSSIER EN ROUTE
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at iwillcometoyou-john14-18.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.
3/4/14—DOSSIER EN ROUTE
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at www.rays-r-us.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)
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.”
3/7/14—USCIS APPROVED
Follow the Decker family’s adoption journey on their blog at wheremercymetgrace.blogspot.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.
3/1/14—DOSSIER EN ROUTE
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at oneorphansrescue.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
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!
3/6/14—DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at lusherfamily.weebly.com
21 Days of Hope!
World Down Syndrome Day
Want to Help?
You don’t have to adopt to make a difference!
Join Us!
ABC NEWS: Hidden Angels
Diane Sawyer reports on the adoption of Mia Cox:
