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The families listed on this page have made it to “the end of the rainbow”. Your sponsorship is most critical now, as their final agency, country, and travel fees are coming due. Your help will make such a huge difference! |
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The families listed on this page have made it to “the end of the rainbow”. Your sponsorship is most critical now, as their final agency, country, and travel fees are coming due. Your help will make such a huge difference! |
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In the fall of 2014 Tasha saw Derrick’s photo for the first time, and instantly fell in love. She felt in her heart that he was their son. At the time, adoption wasn’t an option due to the traveling component of Jeff’s job, but Tasha began praying.
A year later the Schlittenharts began the process to bring their daughter home from China, but Tasha never stopped loving and praying for Derrick to find a family, either theirs or someone else’s. After Norah came home, they discovered she had a life threatening heart defect and secondary lung condition, and they spent the last year and a half getting her through open heart surgery and other life saving procedures. Thankfully, Norah is now healthy and doing well, and the Schlittenharts feel the time has finally come to bring Derrick home after 3 long years of loving and praying for him!
4/4/2018 — DOSSIER SUBMITTED; AWAITING TRAVEL DATES
Jonathan and Angela had been married for several years, and had four beautiful biological daughters when Angela came across an advocacy website for orphans with special needs. It was Reece’s Rainbow! After much prayer and talking with their daughters, the family decided to move forward to adopt Lily (listed on RR as “Flora”) from Eastern Europe. Lily has now been home for over a year and is doing wonderfully! She has cerebral palsy and having a family, along with good nutrition, medical care, and lots of therapy, she has come so far and continues to progress each day. The five sisters are a perfect team and you would never know Lily hasn’t been with the family from day one. About a year after Lily came home, the family felt like they had room at their table for one more…like maybe someone was missing. Marian is also in Eastern Europe and has been waiting for a family for seven years. The Higdons are incredibly excited to welcome her into their forever family and hope to bring her home in the Spring of 2018.
4/4/2018 — DOSSIER SUBMITTED; AWAITING TRAVEL DATES
Sara is a single mother of two teenaged children with special needs. She is also a Special Education Teacher and is passionate about her roles as a mother and educator.
Sara’s Aunt Vicki was born with Down Syndrome, but unfortunately passed due to complications from heart surgery before Sara was born. Sara’s Grandparents, upon the birth of Vicki, were pressured by doctors to institutionalize her. Of course, Sara’s Grandparents did not listen to their doctors and brought Vicki home to love and grow. Since learning about Vicki as a child, Sara started dreaming that one day she would save a child from the future that Vicki might have had if her Grandparents had listened to the doctors.
Sara and her children officially started their journey during National Adoption Month 2017. After looking into the files of waiting children, they found their Campbell Reilly (who was briefly listed on RR as Kai) and cannot wait to bring him HOME!
4/19/2018 — DOSSIER LOGGED IN 4/10
Kayla and Gino have been happily married for 6 years and have been blessed with two biological children.
Adoption has been a long time dream for Kayla, often a topic of conversation with Gino, an open possibility. They were nervous about the whole process, but not enough to give up their mutual dream of having a big family. Kayla kept looking online, then, one day not long ago, she finally found two little siblings! Immediately sent their pictures to Gino. They were both amazed to see that these sweet little angels looked just like their bio kids… They fell in love!
Finding them was a wonderful surprise. Meaning that they didn’t quite have enough time to get ready. So now they are rushing to pay fees, gather a humongous amount of paperwork and raise the remaining amount of money fast enough.
Adoption is never easy peasy process, but they know in their hearts that this journey is gonna be one of the most important and rewarding things they could ever do. They keep working at it and counting the days until they can finally bring those sweet angels home!
3/28/2018 — DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Ben and Darrci have been married for 14 years this December. By their second date they were already discussing their shared interests in adoption. Fourteen years, 11 children (biological and adopted domestically) later, they are ready for their first venture in international adoption!
The second the Ashlocks saw Maxims face they knew he was theirs. They have a busy and fun family ready to take on this new journey!
4/19/2018 — AWAITING TRAVEL DATES
Kevin and Marta have been married for 15 and are blessed with 3 amazing kids – Greyson (16), Kasia (13) and our youngest, Mila (3) who was adopted from China about a year ago. God had opened their hearts during their 1st adoption process to Down Syndrome and Mila became part of their family in 2016.
They had been sponsoring multiple children with heart defects, one of whom was Elora and they fell absolutely in love. They hoped there was a chance she would someday be theirs. Despite the doctors saying Elora was too old and that she was inoperable — thousands prayed and fought for this girl! Elora’s surgery was a great success.
The next hurdle would be getting her orphanage to write her file. Elora’s agency fought for a year to get her file to be written. They waited and waited and finally their family sent in a photo of with Mila to show the orphanage that children with Down Syndrome are loved, wanted and cherished dearly. After 9 months of pleading and prayer they received a phone call — Elora’s file has indeed been prepared! They are so very excited to welcome Elora Meredith Joy home!
They are beyond excited and are doing everything they can to be prepared to welcome a beautiful new life into their home. If you’re reading this, then you’re likely thinking about helping them bring their Elora home. For that, they are forever grateful and want to thank you for partnering with them in this amazing new adventure! They don’t take your support for granted, no matter how big or small the donation. Thank you in advance!
2/26/2018 — DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Billy and Catrina have been married for 9 years, and are both deaf. They struggled with pregnancy, but failed twice. Catrina’s dream has always been to adopt a child from China. God gave them a beautiful plan! They have a beautiful daughter from China, named Ramona, and she is deaf like her parents. Ramona is 6 years old, was adopted last year in May 2016. Ramona is learning sign language so quickly!
They want to adopt another child but were waiting until the right time. Ramona learned about families at school, and one days she came home and told us that she wants a sister or brother! They agreed that Ramona is ready to have a sibling, and they searched for a few months. Finally, God gave them another plan, to have a SON! They are honored to give him the name of Cody. Cody is 5 years old and deaf. Ramona is very excited and can’t wait to play with her new brother sometime next year. Billy and Catrina can’t wait to have another child in their arms and together forever!
4/23/2018 — AWAITING LOA
Follow along on the family’s adoption journey at: https://nowrey.wixsite.com/growingto4
The Wilkinsons have been in the process to adopt for a little over a year. Jeremy is enlisted in the US Army and Elizabeth works PRN as an occupational therapy assistant. Through the week, Elizabeth homeschools their children and Jeremy has formerly coached the girls’ soccer team and helped with their son’s football team. Through the process they have felt called to adopt a child with down syndrome. They have 2 daughters, ages 6 & 7, and a son who is 14. When things weren’t proceeding through domestic/foster care, they decided to look into international adoption. They received a profile on their little guy but decided to hold off until funds were available. Finally, they were able to move forward and found his file on Reece’s Rainbow! Their entire family is over-joyed at the thought of bringing him home as soon as possible!!
3/1/2018 — DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Chad and Melanie have been married for 10 years and have five children; two biological and three from China. Their two oldest, both boys, came home from China during 2014 at ages 6 1/2 and 10. During 2016, they returned to China and brought home a daughter with only weeks to spare before (according to the file) what would have been her 14th birthday. They’ve decided to return to China one last time and bring home a 4 year old daughter who has been diagnosed with cerebral palsy and epilepsy.
The Sandrys would love your prayers and support as they work to bring their daughter home to her forever family.
4/9/2018 — LOA RECEIVED
Caleb and Lisa Howard have been contemplating adoption since late 2015. After finding out Lisa was pregnant with baby #3 in 2016, adoption got pushed to the wayside. In early 2017, Lisa joined the Reese’s Rainbow facebook group and her heart was again opened to adoption. She showed Caleb child after child, but none seemed to fit in to their family. When an advocate for Reese posted his information, they inquired about him. After much prayer and consideration, Caleb and Lisa decided God was opening the doors for them to adopt Reese! They are anxious to bring him home to meet their 3 other children: Hannah, Judah, and Shiloh!
2/7/2018 — USCIS APPROVED
Gary and Dee have been married for 25 years and have raised 8 older children and 4 younger adopted children still at home. They are an older couple and also the proud grandparents now to 18 grandchildren.
Once the Davis’ Family was told their family was like a box full of Animal Crackers. Inside the box you will find a few lions, a tig~ger or two, one big elephant, one tall giraffe and several wild monkeys. Each family member is so different but when you blend them all together and you have a box full of love. Some people do not understand that some families are created differently than others. Every child is a gift from our Lord and we must protect and love these children. The Davis’ Family is a big supporter and advocate for adoption.
In adoption there is the paperwork on top of paperwork and then there is the cost of adopting. Adoption is costly yet the price of a child is priceless. Through much prayers and support mountains can be moved. And the Davis family is moving mountains for this one child. No child should be without a family to love them and the Davis’ Family has decided to step forward.
After completing their last adoption, the Davis’ knew that there was still love in their heart for another little one or two. Immediately they knew in their hearts just which child it was. One little boy Reece’s Rainbow had listed for 4 long years. On Reece’s Rainbow he is listed as Clyde.
With the help of Reece’s Rainbow Clyde has found his family. Now that he has a mother and a father traveling for him they will be working hard to compile their paperwork. Now he who will have a family to hold his small hand and tuck him into his very own bed at night. Many children with Clyde’s illnesses are transferred into an adult setting after age at five years. Instead of a birthday cake and presents he will be transferred. He will be mixed into an adult setting and it would be harder for little Clyde to find a family.
Sometimes we take the small things for granted like buying your child a box of Animal Crackers. But sometimes for a child in an orphanage many children die daily from not having enough to eat. The Davis’ Family ask for your prayers, love and support during their journey in bringing Clyde home. Please follow their adoption blog and share their posts as they work to move mountains to bring their new son home.
4/2/2018 — USCIS APPROVED
Follow along on the family’s adoption journey at: www.animalcrackersforclyde.blogspot.com
Matt and Andrea live in North Idaho and have 8 biological children. For many years they knew they wanted to expand their family by adoption. They’ve always felt very strongly about helping children, especially those with special needs, and those that have suffered neglect and abuse. They firmly believe that every child deserves a home and family for them to reach their fullest potential. They’ve fostered in the past and have experience with special needs in their family. They weren’t sure how, or where they would adopt from, but waited for the opportunity to begin the process. Then, one day, a friend shared a video of an older boy with Cerebral Palsy living in an institution in a foreign country. Through a series of events they were able to find out more about him and get in contact with the agency that made his video. He’s been waiting in an institution for a long time and is getting close to the age where he won’t be able to be adopted. He is also unable to walk, but he is determined that he will in the future and he works really hard at taking steps and gaining strength. With the proper care and therapies available, he could have his dream of walking fulfilled. He also dreams of being able to drive a car someday! Matt, Andrea and their children hope to be able to welcome Dima into their family quickly before he ages out and becomes ineligible for adoption. Please help them bring Dima home!
2/13/2018 — USCIS APPROVED
Please help Jayce’s family bring him home, where he will receive the love and care he so desperately needs.
4/2/2018 — TRAVELING SOON
Andy and Kelly have been married for almost 29 years. They have been blessed with seven biological children over the course of their lives together-six sons and one daughter. They now have four adult children that have left home so that leaves only three at home.
In 2010 they were introduced to the beautiful world of Down Syndrome when their youngest child was born. Although the learning curve was steep and Jamison suffered from numerous medical challenges in the first few years he is now a healthy, thriving and delightful 6 year old who is the absolute delight of their family!
Kelly has had a desire to adopt for a long time. Before Jamison was born she discovered Reece’s Rainbow and she and her daughter, Abby, would spend many hours looking at the waiting children and wondering if there would be a time that adoption would be a part of their family. The timing wasn’t right.
Following Jamison’s birth and a cross country move the Kesti family settled into their new community. They discovered and became active in their local Down Syndrome advocacy group, DSNetwork of Arizona all the while becoming more and more aware of the awesome-ness of these special people blessed with an extra chromosome.
Once again Kelly began looking at the waiting children on Reece’s Rainbow and becoming part of Facebook’s DS adoption advocacy community. Now after a year of looking for their child and beginning an adoption savings they found their daughter, “Merryn” right where this all started-on Reece’s Rainbow!
“Merryn” is a very adorable little 5-year old girl with Down Syndrome who is waiting for her family to come and bring her home. Andy and Kelly are her mom and dad and are working hard to get her home as soon as humanly possible! They can hardly wait until the day they will bring their sweet girl home where she can feel the love of all of her family that waits for her!
The Kesti family has already seen so much support and enthusiasm as they are beginning this process. They know there are generous people that would also like to help by donating so they can make this process as smooth and as fast as it can be!
Please consider making a donation; any amount will help!
1/19/18—DOSSIER SUBMITTED (LID 1/18)
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at bringingourspecialangelhome.blogspot.com
Jody and Michelle Duncan have been married for almost 24 years and have four beautiful daughters, ages 19 to 7. For several years they have had a burden for orphan care. After walking with their friends through an adoption journey, they learned of the staggering number of orphans in the world and the dire state in which so many of these children live. As Christians they felt the scriptures that instruct believers to care for the orphan were spoken in a very personal way to them, but they often made excuses of why they could not adopt. These included the fact that they could not afford it, were busy with their own children, and not equipped to deal with the special needs an adopted child would have.
On two different occasions the family hosted orphans in their home for the Christmas holidays. The Duncans were open to adopt the hosted children but for various reasons those children could not be adopted. However, after the last hosting experience, they were ready to finally act and move forward with being obedient to what God was calling them to do. The Duncans desire to adopt an older child because these children have a small chance of being chosen. After praying as a family, they chose to seek to adopt an eleven year old girl from Eastern Europe. Inga has been in the orphanage for about three years. Her mother past away when Inga was two and her father had his parental rights removed for his improper care of Inga. Sadly, Inga has health concerns that further minimize her chances for being adopted. Because they live very near St. Jude’s Children’s hospital in Memphis, TN, a hospital with a special division for the care of children who suffer from Inga’s illness, they felt it would be a great place for Inga to live. Currently, their letter of intent to adopt Inga has been approved; their dossier is in country and awaiting ministry approval.
The Duncans are not wealthy nor do they have many financial assets. However, they do have a longing to offer a home to a child who has none. Psalm 68:5-6 tells us that God is a Father to the Fatherless and that He sets the lonely in families. Even though they have been blessed with four biological daughters, they know that there is room in their hearts to love and care for another child. They want to be a family to Inga and by God’s grace offer her a safe, secure life with the opportunity to grow up and experience joy and love. Will you help them be that family to Inga?
1/26/2018 — DOSSIER COMPLETE
Michael Patrick & Sarah Hourigan were high school sweethearts and have been married for 10 years. They have been blessed with four biological children: Weston (8), Nellie (6), Trevor (5) and Collin (almost 2). Pat works in Biotech Manufacturing and Sarah is a full-time homeschooling mother.
Pat & Sarah have always wanted to adopt and desire a large family. Sarah’s first experience in international adoption was as a teenager, when a close friend’s family brought home a baby girl from Asia. Sarah decided back then that adoption would be in her future and she particularly hoped to have a girl from Asia one day. Pat is a family man and truly enjoys young children. He has said that he hopes to always have little kids in his life.
While scrolling through Facebook one day, Sarah came across a video about a family who had adopted children with Down Syndrome. It piqued her interest and she found herself googling more about Down Syndrome adoption and feeling pulled strongly in that direction. She shared her feelings with Pat, who was supportive. In early June, it was Brenna’s precious face that sealed the deal. Sarah fell in love with her instantly, and Pat’s heart soon followed. There were many tears and desperate prayers and lots of joy as they began the process to welcome Brenna into their family.
God has already provided miraculously for the Hourigan’s adoption. They are trusting Him to provide and equip them for the rest of the journey.
1/4/2018 — DOSSIER SUBMITTED; HOPING to TRAVEL in SPRING
The humanity in all of us is touched by thoughts of the loneliness experienced by any child waiting for adoption. The story is all the more profound if the child has some special medical need that means his/her passage into adulthood without the love and protection of a family will result in an already desperate prospect having a truly hopeless outlook–most especially when the special need secures little sympathy or help from in-country institutional sources.
This is a story about a little girl called Temperance, and the family she was meant to have.
Temperance has just turned 8. Her prospects of adoption are hugely compromised not only by her age but also and more particularly by her very special need—a chronic blood disorder which is not well understood in her country. She does well in school and is respectful to adults. She is pretty and sweet, but she will not survive under the current circumstances.
The Sims married later in life but faced the prospect of a childless marriage because Dean had the exact same medical condition that Temperance has. Consistent care, persistence, intelligent medical management and the advance of science not only enabled him to manage this condition and live an active, healthy life but it allowed Mary and Dean to have two healthy biological children. This story, if we had space to share the details, would itself leave you watery eyed in terms of its improbability.
Mary and Dean want to try to give something back by way of thanks for their good fortune. Their age now puts them just over the line of ineligibility for many adoption programs, but their preparedness to embrace Temperance into their family and their unique ability to offer medical care and personal experience in successfully managing her condition has opened up an opportunity for them to adopt Temperance. The cost of this adoption (nearly $60,000) is a harrowing obstacle even after making sacrifices and putting aside other wants and needs as all adoptive parents must do. The high cost is due not only to the extensive in-country fees, but also to the requirement for a six-week stay in country for the whole family.
They are resolved to make it happen. They feel they have to. Without this lifeline, Temperance would seem to have little chance at a full and happy life. In fact, now that she is eight, she may be moved to the school for children with mental challenges, which is where many children with miscellaneous conditions seem to end up. This would be a terrifying prospect even for an adult, but imagine yourself looking through the eyes of a smart and aware, but defenseless, little girl! Even without that, she could find herself suffering extreme prejudice and hardship upon aging out, due to her health condition (if she remains healthy long enough to age out) as well as having spent time in a school for mentally challenged children (of which she was not one). In the arms of her family she would be loved and nurtured and have her condition safely managed so that she could have a full, happy and long life of achievement and strong relationships.
We hope you will join us in bringing this precious child home, and saving a soul worth saving. Maybe in the process, we can begin to break down the bureaucratic paradigms that prevent other children in similar circumstances from finding salvation. But for now—Temperance.
1/5/18 — DOSSIER SUBMITTED JUNE 2017
Joe and Hannah are specifically hoping to adopt a child with special-needs. Their youngest child has several special-needs of his own, including prematurity (born at 26 weeks) and Down Syndrome. They have already learned so much through caring for their son, who is now 4 years old, and therefore feel as though they are equipped to take on the responsibility of caring for another special little blessing. Joe and Hannah also have a 7 year old daughter and a 5 year old son.
Both of them want to add to their family. They had talked about adoption before they even had biological children, so they knew it was always something they wanted to do. They had always dreamed of having a large family and when they realized Hannah would no longer be able to have more biological children (Hannah had to have an emergency hysterectomy at the age of 23), they knew that we were meant to adopt! They love kids and feel as though their family is not yet complete. Adoption is the perfect option for them! They have the space, the time, the desire, and most importantly, the love to give. Adoption has become a passion and a calling for their family.
Many people have asked Joe and Hannah “why are you choosing to adopt?” To them, the reason is simple – because their hearts are telling them to!
Joe and Hannah have open hearts and arms and look forward to adding an addition to their family.
1/1/18 — USCIS SUBMITTED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at thentherewas6.blogspot.com
Since the day they met, Nathan made it known that adoption was a dream of his. Seven years of marriage and two children later, Amber got on board! Once fully committed to the adoption, things rolled along quickly and God matched them up with the newest member of their family, a spunky little deaf daughter from Asia.
Nathan and Amber are anxious to bring her home and get acclimated to their new life with “virtual twin” daughters, sign language, and so much love!
10/13/2017 — DOSSIER COMPLETE
Robert and Theresa met in 2000. She was a young widow with 3 small children, and Robert was divorced with 2 daughters. Three years later, they got married and relocated to North Carolina.
The youngest of the children is Theresa Lauren, who they call TT. She was born with Down syndrome and heart issues. Raising her has brought them into a world of special needs, IEPs, lots of doctor appts, and countless different therapies. T he family works hard to ensure TT has the same opportunities that other children are provided. TTs extra chromosome even inspired Theresa to go back to school to become a nurse.
Several years ago, after talking with a friend who had recently adopted a child, Theresa googled “Down Syndrome Orphans” and was lead to Reece’s Rainbow. Ever since then, she has donated, advocated, prayed, encouraged, and followed stories of families adopting Special Needs Children. The family would choose a child from the Angel Tree each year at Christmastime to advocate and raise funds for. Theresa saw a bit of TT in each of those faces, and felt sad that they did not have families to provide for their basic needs and medical care.
This past holiday season, the Forges had the opportunity to host a little girl from Asia who is rockin that extra chromosome, just like TT. She lives in their home for a month so they could, among other things, advocate for her to find a forever family. She also went to an eye doctor, a pediatrician, and a dentist, where she had quite a bit of work done.
It wasn’t long into her visit that the family realized that God had been preparing their hearts all along. They should be her forever family, she should be their daughter. They had plenty of love to give, empty bedrooms, and lots of experience with her special need. It was now time to start the mounds of paperwork to bring her home for good.
Even though there are huge costs, and lot of work associated with adoption, a child’s life is priceless. A loving family should not be a privilege, it is a necessity. Robert and Theresa are working hard to raise the funds needed. Robert is working overtime at his job and doing carpentry and remodeling on the side, always with a smile. Theresa is busy selling her art at craft fairs, having yard sales, and selling things online. TT is even coloring pictures she hopes to sell, to help bring her little sister home.
The Forge family would appreciate any prayers, good wishes and financial donations in support of this adoption.
1/15/2018 — LOA RECEIVED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at afamilyforme.blogspot.com
Clay and RoseAnna have been married for 14 years. They have five biological children ages 12,10,6,3 and 3. They have devoted their time to raising and spending time with their family along with working on their family farm. They are so excited to add a little girl to their family and can’t wait until they will be able to go get her. They have felt the pull to adopt for a few years and feel excited and blessed to pursue this journey.
1/18/2018 — DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Mike and Theresa Grimes met in a tiny college town in Emmitsburg Md. We have 8 wonderful sons ranging from 28-8 years old. While there is never a dull moment at our home we know we have lots of love to share. People keep telling us “your plate is full” our answer is “We have a lot of room in our hearts”.
Both Mike and Theresa always wanted a daughter and are thrilled to be getting her through the blessing of adoption.
We are so happy to have found Reeces Rainbow and are thankful for all of the support from this amazing community.
“Being unwanted, unloved, uncared for forgotten by everybody, I think that is much greater poverty than the person that has nothing to eat.”
– Mother Teresa
11/29/2017– UPDATING DOSSIER DOCUMENTS
Josh and Devin have been married for 10 years, and have 3 biological children. While never truly struggling with infertility, they have experienced the pain and loss of miscarriage, and the stillbirth of one of their sons. They cherish the precious lives of each of their children and are grateful for every child they have had under their roof! Josh and Devin became therapeutic foster parents 2 year ago and have had experience with many physical, mental, and emotional needs. Devin has wanted to adopt since she was very young, and Josh has personal experience with adoption in his family, so they were excited when they were finally in a position to adopt after Josh’s time in the military and college. After working with special needs through foster care and their own children, there was no question that Josh and Devin wanted to adopt a child with special needs…specifically Down Syndrome.
They fell in love with this precious little girl, and have enjoyed learning as much as they can about her country and culture. They can’t wait to finally meet “Evita”! Because of the special needs in the family, they are planning to stay together as much as possible during the long “pick-up” trip, which of course only adds to the already numerous expenses. There have already been several delays that have been discouraging, but they know their daughter is absolutely worth the wait, the fight, and the commitment it will take to bring her home.
11/16/2017 — DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Tobin and Jen Lehman have been married for 11 years and have been blessed with three amazing kids; Rhys (8), Kathryn (5), and Elisabeth (2). Tobin runs an missions-minded marketing firm and Jen has been grateful for the opportunity to stay home and homeschool these three children.
Although Tobin and Jen have been aware of God’s heart for orphaned children and even participated in an orphan hosting program in 2014, adoption was not on their radar. But this spring they felt that God was preparing their hearts for the addition of a new child through adoption. Specifically, they felt that they were being specially equipped to welcome a child with special needs. As they thought and prayed about this, they felt that God was continually confirming this as a calling for their family.
Then, they saw a picture of Jacob and they immediately felt the desire to welcome him into their hearts and home. Jacob is six months younger than their youngest daughter and has Down Syndrome and mild heart defects.
Every step of the process has been met with support from their family and confirmation of this decision as provision for the adoption has been made as they have walked through the steps to bring this sweet boy home and show him that he is precious and loved.
They have already paid for and completed their application and home study and are now trusting God to help provide for the next steps. They hope to be able to bring Jacob home in the first part of the new year. They are thankful for the prayers and support of their family and community as they pursue the prize of bringing Jacob to his forever home.
2/1/2018 — AWAITING TRAVEL INVITE
FULLY FUNDED!!!
Jared and Michelle Graves have been happily married for 11 memorable years. They have been fortunate enough to have 3 biological sons, Andrew (16), Evan (12), and Jake (9). They are hoping to add just one more boy to their family, Joseph. Michelle comes from a large family of four sisters, two brothers, and nine nieces and nephews. Jared on the other hand not as big, he had one sister. Both families are waiting opened arms for Joseph to make his way ho me. When Michelle first started researching the idea of adoption, which they have considered for many years, Joseph caught her heart and she instantly knew that he was going to be her son and the newest addition to their family. Joseph is seven years old and has Down syndrome, but that is exactly what Michelle and her family wanted and needs. Their youngest son, Jake, also has Down syndrome and has changed their lives in unimaginable ways. The Graves family is fighting with everything they have to adopt Joseph. The family has raised money and collected hundreds of shoes for a fundraiser that helps those in need. They want more than ever to bring Joseph into their lives and nourish him with love and affection, because that is what every child deserves.
After learning that Joseph had recently passed away, the Graves family took some time to regroup — and are now moving forward with adopting Ryder.
11/29/2017– UPDATING DOSSIER DOCUMENTS
John and Mary Ellen Keno have been married for 32 years and are blessed to have eight children — three birth daughters and five adopted children — over the past 31 years. They are also blessed with four beautiful grandchildren and a great son-in-law. God has been nudging them to adopt a teen boy with Down syndrome from Eastern Europe. Their whole family is excited to welcome their son/brother/uncle home.
10/31/2017 — DOSSIER SUBMITTED
Tyler will come home to a large happy family. He will be reunited with a longtime friend from his group home but this time as her brother.
1/9/2018 — TRAVEL INVITATION RECEIVED
Justin and Tara have been married for five years and have a two-year old biological daughter who loves to read and loves Mickey Mouse. As soon as Vivien was born, she was loved beyond comprehension by two parents who prayed for her and would show her the love of Jesus. This love grew and overflowed, and God began to give Tara and Justin hearts for the unwanted and unloved children in the world. Over the past two years, they have been praying about how God could use them in real, tangible ways, like fostering or adopting, to bring the light of Jesus and a forever home to a child in need. God has opened doors where they never even thought to look and He has led their hearts to precious little Jenny.
2/20/2018 — DOSSIER SUBMITTED; AWAITING TRAVEL DATES
Please follow the family’s journey on their blog: thejourneytojenny.blogspot.com
Jenny has received a $468 Waiting Child Grant.
Ellen and Joel live in Connecticut where they have been married for 25 years. They have five children: two in college and three at home. As things often go, their children’s hobbies and interests have become their hobbies and interests. They enjoy getting outside, watching any kind of sport being played by their children and listening to their musical endeavors. The youngest, John (4), born with Down Syndrome, has been a blessing in all their lives. Since John was born, they have been introduced to the world of “special needs”. All members of the family have taken a keen interest into how to bring about John’s best abilities. They still enjoy the same endeavors, but perhaps in a different way. Over the years, Ellen and Joel have learned so much from being parents; so much about themselves. After John was born, they became aware of Reece’s Rainbow and the phrase “waiting children”. They have come to understand these children are not waiting for a ride to school, or waiting for new shoes; their real wait is for a family. Something many of us take for granted. This phrase, “waiting,” has been on their minds for over 4 years. Ellen and Joel feel their life journey has led them to the role of adoptive parents and they are happily accepting of this role.
Ellen traveled to a country intending to be matched with a girl who they picked from Reece’s Rainbow. On this trip, it was discovered that they were a better match to a boy, Christian. He also has Down syndrome. While visiting with him, Ellen and their daughter Diana played hours of “balloon ball” using plastic bowling pins to keep the balloon from hitting the ground. They had many laughs when the balloon would ricochet off someone’s head or face. Christian has lived his whole life in an orphanage where he is well cared for, but he does not have a mom or a dad. He also doesn’t have many choices. In preparing to bring him home, they began reflecting on how many choices their kids had when they were 8 years old. “This to eat or that, these shoes or those, play inside or out…” There is none of that in Christian’s life. In fact, they think we will have to keep choices to a minimum when he comes to America, as we all know the paradox of choice. Just go try and choose a tube of toothpaste!
The Sefransky’s are deeply committed to bringing Christian to live with them forever; deeply committed to giving him the opportunities that their son John has in his neighborhood school, and in the supportive and loving communities of church, family, and friends. They are currently asking for prayers and support to make this adoption financially, emotionally, and spiritually successful. Please consider partnering with them on their journey to make Christian a son and brother.
4/17/2017 — AWAITING COURT in LATE APRIL
Markus and Sarah Linke met at church 11 years ago and have now been married for 8 years. A lot has happened in their 8 years of marriage; from experiencing miscarriages, to dealing with infertility, to the adoption of their miracle baby Hope in 2013.
In the beginning of their relationship, long before they experienced infertility, Markus and Sarah realized they had a common desire to adopt. And in 2013, less than 2 years after they experienced the heartache of miscarriages, their baby girl Hope practically fell into their laps. She is by far the biggest blessing in their lives. In 2015, when Hope was 2 years old, they saw the profile of a little boy with special needs and decided to try to adopt again. But just as they were nearing the end of their home study, the foster family decided to adopt the little boy. So they decided to put adoption on hold for a little while. Late in 2016, they saw “Anderson’s” profile on Reece’s Rainbow, a little boy with special needs available for adoption. Yes, the thought of the adoption falling through again crossed their minds. There is no guarantee in adoption; there are always risks. But they knew they had to try again! They have room in their hearts and home for more children, and Hope is so very excited to be a big sister!
Markus and Sarah feel so blessed and are thrilled to be on this adoption journey! They would greatly appreciate your prayers and welcome any financial support as they work hard to bring their son home as quickly as they can.
6/13/17 — USCIS APPROVED
The Speck family — Adam, Tiffany, Elijah, Avelyn, Malachai, Brynley, and Truenne — are excited to be adding to their family again, this time through adoption. While Adam and Tiffany had briefly discussed adoption when they were first married 16 years ago, the arrival of 5 biological children in a few short years and the busy life that results from a home blessed with many children, caused the idea of adopting to fall out of sight. God clearly had other plans however, and brought the idea of adopting suddenly back into the forefront of their minds this past spring, when a friend unexpectedly introduced them to Reece’s Rainbow. One beautiful child immediately caught Tiffany’s eye, and she and Adam began to pray and discuss the idea of adopting this child with special needs.
Over the following several weeks, the more they prayed and discussed adopting, the more God confirmed that this plan was from Him– through an unexpected sermon series (about adoption and foster care) at their church, random interactions with strangers who spontaneously shared adoption or foster stories of their own on an almost daily basis, and devotional topics discussing our own adoption into God’s family through salvation. After several months of praying to confirm that this idea of adoption was truly from the Lord and for this time, the Specks contacted Reece’s Rainbow to make a commitment to the little girl who had initially grabbed at their hearts, only to find another family had recently committed to her adoption. For several weeks after this, Adam and Tiffany wrestled through what felt like a loss to them, and realized fully that God was truly laying adoption on their hearts for their family.
It is with great excitement that they are able to announce that they will be welcoming Adelaide into their family! They are also currently trying to raise additional funds to be able to commit to a second daughter, and appreciate your prayers and any financial support to help them bring home Adelaide as soon as possible, and to be able to fully commit to this additional beautiful daughter.
UPDATE: The Speck family will also be bringing home Gertie!
6/13/17—DOSSIER COMPLETE
Austin and Allison are high school sweet hearts! Austin is a 23-year old and has been a Fire Fighter in the New Hampshire Air National Guard since 2013 and Allison is a 22-year-old elementary school teacher who transitioned to being a stay at home mom. Austin and Allison met their Junior year of high school and married in 2014. They have two biological children (Landon is 4 and Lilah is 2) and a foster daughter, and now, they find themselves in the middle of an effort to bring the newest member of their family home for next year’s holidays.
Adoption was never on the Routhier’s radar until they found out about Reece’s Rainbow. Allison found out about Reece’s Rainbow in the Spring of 2016 and began researching international adoption. Allison was still in school and it wasn’t the right time. They decided to become licensed foster parents through DCYF until the time was right for them to begin the adoption process.
They have been racing through paperwork at record speeds. This is going to be a “hurry up and wait” process, where they rush as much as possible, then sit tight until her paperwork is finally completed. Thank you for being a part of our daughters adoption story!
6/9/2017 — DOSSIER SUBMITTED; AWAITING TRAVEL
Follow our adoption journey on our Facebook page & our Etsy page with handmade hair bows and hair accessories.
We are the Carlson family and sweet Bree will be our third adoption from Asia. With an accessible home and the desire in our hearts to welcome another child, we searched for an older girl with mobility needs to add to our crew. One look at her beaming smile and we were hooked! Bree was found at age 3 and has waited many years for a forever home. We look forward to introducing her to the love and joy of our family, friends and community.
4/24/2018 — DOSSIER SUBMITTED (4/2), USCIS APPROVED
Girl, born 2012
PRC
Down syndrome, post-op CHD
$18,933.70 has been donated towards the cost of my adoption!
4/9/2018 — Family is waiting on LOA
