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Thank you for your generous gift of life and love! |
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Thank you for your generous gift of life and love! |
I wanted to introduce myself and my family to this new community we have been recommended to join!
I am Amy, my husband is Benjamin, and we have two little girls. Lily has been home from Asia since October 2013 and she is 4 years old and our other little girl, Gabriella, is waiting for us in Asia, we are praying her home by February or March 2018. Both our little girls have a very rare genetic condition called Osteogenesis Imperfecta, or more commonly known as brittle bones. Their bones may break but their spirits are unbreakable!
Since May 2015, we have been trying to get Gabriella’s file but through various reasons, outside of our control, we could never get her file. Lots of hope, waiting, praying, and heartbreak. But now, joy, blessings, miracles, and answered prayers. We have been given this incredible privilege after over two years of trying and waiting to officially pursue Gabriella and make her our daughter! Our family is so thankful for this wonderful gift of adoption.
We welcome you to follow along on our journey to reach Gabriella!
8/4/2017 — HOMESTUDY COMPLETE
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at faithandroses.wordpress.com
Raymond and Alison Vis met in high school and after losing contact for a few years have now been married for four years. They have two adorable biological children, Katie aged 3 and Ezra aged 1. They have their hands full with two young toddlers and were not planning on expanding their family again so quickly. But, God!
Alison stumbled across the blog of a family who had recently adopted from Eastern Europe and and was instantly drawn to their story. Many late nights and prayers later Raymond and Alison both accepted what they believed to be a calling to expand their family through international adoption of a child with special needs from Eastern Europe.
Raymond and Alison began the process with great urgency, believing that their child was out there somewhere, just waiting to be found. After many ups and downs Alison and Raymond believe that God has relived the child that they are to go and bring home to their family.
This little one will be a twin for Ezra, being only six weeks apart in age. He will also bring a little something extra to the family as he happens to have Down Syndrome and is rocking that extra chromosome!
Mountains are truly being moved to take this little one from lost to loved. Alison and Raymond are so grateful for all support to help get their little one home!
9/12/2017 — COMPILING DOSSIER
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at bringinghomebrave.wordpress.com
Gary Wayne and Dee have been married for 25 years and have raised 7 older children and 5 younger adopted children still at home. They are an older couple and also grandparents to 17 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 one more. 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. Being that little Clyde is only 4 years old he has waited since a baby to be adopted. Clyde had been sitting in an a orphanage watching as other children were adopted. And daily Clyde has been over looked so many times. Clyde like most of his friends wants a family and yet no one stepped up till now. This little guy so full of sunshine and a smile that would melt hearts finally has a family to come bring him home. Like most little boys full or energy and so much love to give in return he deserves his chance for a family.
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.
9/14/2017 — COMPILING DOSSIER
Follow along on the family’s adoption journey at: www.animalcrackersforclyde.blogspot.com
Trent and Amber have been married for eight years. They have three children. The oldest, an 11 year old daughter who joined their family with Amber, is a sweet, loving child who enjoys softball and soccer. Together, they have two young sons. The four year old is hilarious and loves helping Dad with yard-work and car repairs. The baby is two and he is obsessed with tractors and trains. As a family, they enjoy being active in their church, escaping to the outdoors, and engaging in community activities.
Adoption was something they talked about from time to time. They always considered it down the road, when their children were older; when timing was more convenient. After watching local friends go through a domestic adoption, their hearts started to stir. They considered becoming respite caregivers for foster families. It was during this time of consideration their eyes were opened to the orphan crisis in the world. They were introduced to Reece’s Rainbow, particularly children with special needs in Eastern Europe. After watching a close friend commit to a child and go through the adoption process, Amber prayed that if this was God’s will for their lives now, that He would make it known to them. One day, she showed Trent a picture of a little boy, which had become pretty routine in their house, but this time he responded with, “OK. Find out what we need to do to get him home.” They knew then that they couldn’t say “but later” any longer. God had called them to make a difference to one.
They are thrilled to welcome home their son and cannot wait to start their journey as a family of six!
9/20/2017 — AWAITING USCIS APPROVAL
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.
9/7/2017 — COMPILING DOSSIER
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at afamilyforme.blogspot.com
Jacob and Sarah had that “love at first sight” moment 13 years ago at Dallas Baptist University and never stopped living the fairy tale. Jacob is a Vice President at Alliant Insurance Services and Sarah is a fitness bootcamp instructor / stay at home mom with their 6 children ages 2, 3, 5, 7, 9, and 10. After the adoption of #6, they knew they had room in their hearts and home for one more and started looking at Reece’s Rainbow for the perfect child with “something extra.” The whole family is so excited to welcome their new sister, soon to be named “Noelle”!
9/1/17 — USCIS APPROVED
Follow the family’s adoption journey at: justusholts.blogspot.com
The Lang Family is excited to be adopting again. Peter and Daphne have been married for 25 years and have 1 biological child, 1 adopted child from Taiwan and two children adopted from China. They are stepping out of faith and following the Lord on a new journey. This time the Lord led them to Winston a thirteen year old boy waiting in Asia who is going to age out soon!! He is so full of joy and wants a family of his own. We are on a race against the clock and pray many will rally around us and make this precious boys dream come true.
9/25/2017 — AWAITING USCIS APPROVAL
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at provinceoflove.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 little Kambria 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.
9/1/2017 — AWAITING USCIS APPROVAL
The Stolz family is adopting again. Jim and Mary have been married 33 years, and have 15 children; 5 biologically theirs, and 10 theirs through adoption. They have found that God is calling them particularly to older children, especially older children with Down syndrome in Eastern Europe who are close to aging out, and being condemned to an institution forever!
So far, the Stolz family consists of 9 children with Down syndrome, and they are making it an even 10 this year! Chad in Eastern Europe, just turning 16 years old, is going to finally have a home, with a mama and a papa, and lots of brothers and sisters to play with.
Multiple child adoptions are expensive. Back-to-back multiple child, older children adoptions are very expensive. Please consider helping these kids get home to their mama and papa!
9/1/2017 — DOSSIER NEARLY COMPLETE
Jennifer knew since childhood that her place in life was to adopt. When she was 11 her younger brother was born with Down Syndrome and from that moment on she knew she’d be adopting a child or children with Down Syndrome. Jennifer stumbled upon the Reece’s Rainbow website about 7 years ago and her eyes were opened to the plight of these children in other countries. There were many reasons standing in her way when she first found RR and she just wasn’t in a position to adopt. Finally last year she felt like it was the right time. After many hours on the RR website and countless tears searching through the waiting children Jenn was still not sure if she would be adopting a baby or a child closer to Mia’s age. Then she took a look at the “At Risk of Aging Out” list. And saw Brett. And finally knew. This little boy abandoned in a field as a newborn and left to fend for himself in a mental institution for his entire childhood will soon be showered with more love, attention and opportunity than you cold ever imagine. Jenn and her 10 yo daughter Mia are so ready to welcome Brett into their family. Mia has been excitedly making plans for when her “little-big brother” comes home.
9/1/2017 — COMPILING DOSSIER
Please help Jayce’s family bring him home, where he will receive the love and care he so desperately needs.
9/1/2017 — AWAITING USCIS APPROVAL
John and Sheryl met 16 years ago while working at an agency that provides supports for adults with intellectual disabilities. They were married five years later, while continuing to work at the same agency. They had always planned on adopting a child with Down syndrome, but their prayers were answered, and a lot of money was saved, when their second biological child, Remy, was born with Down syndrome. Sadly, Remy passed away tragically shortly after his fourth birthday.
Sheryl and John reconvened to see if adopting a child with Down syndrome was still in their hearts. After talking with their two young children, they decided that, yes, they would step out in faith and trust and begin the process to open their home to another child with Down syndrome.
As soon as Sheryl and John saw Dwight’s picture, they knew he was their son. During the waiting process, the whole family is passing the time enjoying learning about his culture, history, foods and holidays. They’re eagerly anticipating flying to Asia late Fall to bring their newest family member HOME!
9/1/2017 — DOSSIER in PROCESS
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.
9/1/2017 — AWAITING USCIS APPROVAL
As a family, Jonathan and Laura Dale have a unique set of skills. The Dales were blessed with two biological children, the 2nd of which was born with severe medical complications and mental delays. It was a privilege they were able to enjoy for 12 short years before their daughter passed away from these chronic issues. During this time they also were foster parents to several long term placements and eventually adopted two more children. Again, one a typical, thriving child and one medically complex. In their 21 years of marriage they have learned so much about how to be parents of children with severe trauma and medical issues that it has become their families “normal”.
In January 2017 they saw “Clarence” on a You-Tube video, a little boy in Eastern Europe, who has significant medical needs and has been in institutionalized care his entire life. Laura was smitten and soon Jonathan was on board too! Shortly upon actively starting the adoption process for him, they were introduced to “Aria” a little girl in another region in the same country. Jonathan immediately “claimed” her as his. Laura’s heart followed as well. Their family has decided that both of these children are to be a part of their forever family. Their older boys are on board and excited to meet their soon-to-be siblings.
Being patient and handling “red-tape” is not a concern for this family – it is money that is the greater challenge. Jonathan works three jobs (handyman, mechanic, farm hand) and Laura works from home 40-60 hours a week making baby items and selling them online or at farmers markets. They have also started working every weekend selling hard scooped ice cream at local events to add to their adoption funds. This process is long and tedious.
Adopting two children, from two different regions is incredibly expensive. It is a financial hurdle that can be very frightening. The Dales are up for this challenge and are committed to seeing these adoption through.
If you are willing or able to help them with the financial burden of saving this 4 year old boy and 9 year old girl from living the remaining part of their lives in a crib, this family would be forever grateful!
8/17/2017 — HOMESTUDY COMPLETE
Mike and Ruth have been married for 18 years. They have 4 children – ages 18 to 5 years old and in addition an 18 month old foster to adopt African American child. When their 5 year old daughter, Emma was born, the family discovered she had Down Syndrome. Having Emma in their lives opened them up to the heart of the Father – which is those orphaned and those with special needs. The family began to open their homes to international orphans thru a hosting program.
Ruth met “Susana” while on a trip to her orphanage in September 2015. Susana lives in a war-stricken orphanage in Eastern Europe. Many of the children in her orphanage have seen first-hand the effects of war & conflict.
The family brought Susana home in December 2015, to spend Christmas with their family and for her to be seen by a team of specialists at UNC Chapel Hill. She has what is known as lymphatic vascular malformation. While it is not necessarily life threatening, without treatment the growth will continue to grow and affect many aspects of her daily life, including her jaw and her ability to eat. She will need to receive treatment for this genetic issue for the rest of her life.
The family soon discovered that Susana is not defined by this malformation! She is sweet and spunky, full of life and laughter! She steals hearts with everyone she meets. Her potential knows no bounds!
As an orphan advocate family and ministry, when the family first met Susana there were no thoughts regarding adoption – our focus and prayers was to help her find a forever family! Over the months however, God was making it clear to the family that she is their special gift, their reward from the Lord!
Children are a gift from the Lord;
they are a reward from Him.
Children born to a young man
are like arrows in a warrior’s hands.
How joyful is the man whose quiver is full of them!
Psalm 127:3-5
7/20/2017 — HOMESTUDY COMPLETE; COMPILING DOSSIER
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!
8/27/2017 — AWAITING USCIS APPROVAL
The Ewer family has started their adoption journey to adopt a little boy named Jonathan.They are so excited to bring him home and call him their son! Along with the title son he will also gain the title of “big brother”, “little brother”, and of course gain the title of “orphan no more!”
Jonathan will not only have parents who love him but ten siblings to love him as well! He desperately needs LOVE and a FAMILY! International adoption is very expensive but they know that this is the path God has called them on. Please help them get to their son by helping them chip away at the mountain of expenses that lies in their path! Thank you so much!
“We learned that orphans are easier to ignore before you know their names. They are easier to ignore before you see their faces. It is easier to pretend they’re not real before you hold them in your arms. But once you do, everything changes.” – Radical by David Platt
9/19/17 —COMPILING DOSSIER
We always viewed adoption as a part of our family’s future. Mom was born with a metabolic disorder called Phenylketonuria (PKU) that when treated immediately and consistently throughout life, allows the individual to pursue a happy, healthy life. Untreated, PKU causes cognitive delays and other neurological problems. Because our home is already set up to accommodate the treatment, which is a strict low protein diet and specific dietary supplements, when we heard of children with PKU needing a family, we decided to pursue adoption.
In May 2015 we were blessed with two sons with PKU who joined our family through adoption. Our family of four can be crazy, fun, and joyfully loud, and we can’t stop falling in love with the children we and other adoption advocates are working to find families for. We are currently pursuing the adoption of two of these boys with PKU.
One future son is eight and he seems to be a great kid! He can be shy, but looks out for other kids in his orphanage. We spoke to a volunteer who met him and she shared some touching stories about their time together, referencing his excitement at the zoo, his caring nature, and what a joy he was to be around.
The other boy we are adopting is a young man who was hosted in the U.S. recently. Though his PKU has not always been well maintained, we have heard from his host family how wonderful this sweet boy is. Along with our army of support, we are confident that with proper treatment of his PKU and a lot of love, he will flourish.
These boys will love living in a house with three other brothers, a house full of PKU-friendly food, a lot of music, laughter, and outdoor activities with their new family! Every dollar donated gets our family one step closer to bringing them home. The oldest one ages out on his fourteenth birthday in a few short months!
8/9/2017 — COMPILING DOSSIER
Michael and Elizabeth are eagerly waiting to bring Cara home! Michael comes from a family of 14 siblings, and has always wanted a house full of children. Together, Michael and Elizabeth now have 8 children. They both serve at their local church, where Michael helps lead worship. Theirs is a house full of music and worship. Elizabeth is a full time mother, and home-schools their children on their small farm in Oregon. She has had a longstanding desire and call on her life to adopt a child with special needs, and has been patiently waiting for the time God would open that door in her life. Several months ago, the Lord began leading Michael and Elizabeth down a meandering path to prepare for adoption. Doors seemed to open and close, but each bend in the road only reinforced their confidence that God was leading them. They began a homestudy to prepare for a child they had not found yet.
Finally, when they saw Cara’s profile on Reese’s Rainbow, they both fell in love. They found the little girl who had been waiting for them! Cara is an amazing, shining little girl from eastern Europe. Michael, Elizabeth and all of their children are excitedly and impatiently waiting to bring Cara home. Their home is overflowing with love and affection for this little girl. Please, won’t you consider investing in making this family whole?
10/4/2017 — USCIS APPROVED
Follow along on the family’s adoption journey at: grandtdreamteam.blogspot.com
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!
8/14/17—HOMESTUDY APPROVED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at bringingourspecialangelhome.blogspot.com
Cal and Melissa have been married for 22 years and have eleven children, nine biological and two from Liberia. Their oldest at nineteen is married, so they just have ten still living at home. Both Cal and Melissa had a desire to adopt even before they met. Melissa worked in an orphanage in Hong Kong for a year and a half. It was there that she had the joy of looking after many babies with Down Syndrome and hoped to adopt a special one of her own one day.
God had an exciting surprise for Cal and Melissa, their third child was born with Down Syndrome! Soon after this they discovered Reece’s Rainbow, gushing over the children and donating when possible. There was always the dream of adopting a little girl with Down Syndrome. Life got busy, until recently when God made it clear that He had a special little girl for the Calhoon family.
Everything is perfect in God’s timing, He prepared a large enough home, a great job for Cal, and after what was thought to be a phone call of inquiry, our little girl. We ended up doing things a little backwards and had pre-approval within a few days of calling to ask if our family was too big for adoption!
We have just completed our home study and are trying to remain patient while we wait for our little darling to come home.
7/18/2017 — HOMESTUDY COMPLETE
Matt and Sara have been married for 15 years and have 7 children, 2 of them adopted from Ukraine. Shortly after their 5th child was born, they saw a photo on the Reece’s Rainbow website of a young girl who looked like she could be their daughter. They began the adoption process, and God richly blessed their journey and unique way of adding to their family. They also brought home a young son that year. The transition has gone well overall and both kids are absolutely amazing! They are so loving, and the family cannot imagine life without them. Looking back, it feels like they have always been with them. Their other children have been very supportive and also want to adopt someday.
Fast forward to 2017. Matt and Sara have never stopped thinking about adoption and whether adopting again would be right for them. Would they still be supported if adding to their family again? After all, even 7 children is far past the national average in America. Would others understand the great need that is out there? After a recent road trip with much time to think, they saw two boys newly listed on the Reece’s Rainbow website and decided to follow their hearts and step forward in faith once again. It truly felt like their family was not yet complete and that adoption would grow their family yet again.
One evening, their oldest daughter also asked for the Reece’s Rainbow website address and began looking through photos of waiting girls. She brought a few to Mom and Dad’s attention, and soon 3 of the girls were looking at profiles together. As a result, the family also hopes to bring home an older daughter if it is God’s will. Altogether, it would even out the kids – 5 girls and 5 boys.
In addition to road trips across the US and Canada, the Baerbock family enjoys nature walks, family movie nights, and trips to the Minnesota Renaissance Festival and State Fair. They are also involved in their church through Sunday School and the church council. The girls enjoy track and gymnastics, and one daughter has even made it onto the local gymnastics team!
The family would be honored and humbled by your support and encouragement to help bring their children home. Please pray for them that all may go smoothly. You can follow their journey at their blog: www.postzero.com/adoption_journey
7/30/17 — HOMESTUDY COMPLETE
Thomas (Rusty) and Rachel have been married for 11 years. They have two boys Hunter 10 and Mason 6. They felt a longing to adopt but didn’t know how until a family friend introduced them to Summer hosting. After conflicting schedule issues they had to regrettable turn down hosting after falling in love with sweet Gulliver. God wasn’t through with this story there. He had been warming the hearts of a local adoption advocate to bring Gulliver to visit and hopefully find a forever family. The two families through family friends met and expressed desires to meet. The lady asked Rachel to travel with her to get Gulliver when he arrived from Asia. Rachel followed Gods calling and packed for the road trip. The family fell in love with Gulliver and the story began. Rusty and Rachel submitted to adopt Gulliver before he ever left the states. Little did they know it wasn’t God’s timing. Rachel was not quite 30 which is a requirement for his adoption. Rusty and Rachel prayed and trusted the lord until the phone call came that Gulliver was still available. They immediately applied for PA and were approved. God has showed up and out all in this family’s story. The family of 4 will soon be a family of 5.
7/13/2017 — HOMESTUDY COMPLETE
Please meet the Romeros. Teresa and Robert are the parents of two girls, a sixteen year old and a four year old. They are a family with strong faith. They always wanted to adopt, it was originally part of their family’s plan. However, they never felt financially secure enough to move forward. This past January Teresa was part of a mission trip to El Salvador. During the trip Teresa worked in very poor communities. The poverty was like nothing the family had previously experienced and Teresa was deeply distressed by the plight of the children. When she returned home, she shared her experiences with her family and they decided it was the right time to move forward with the adoption. The Romeros wanted a child that had special needs and over the age of 2, but also wanted to adopt in birth order so the child needed to be younger than their 4 year old toddler. They were ecstatic when they found the most adorable little guy, called “Patrick” on the agency profile. They inquired about him and had their doctor review his medical records. They were so excited to say “yes” to the adoption of Patrick. They quickly realized they would need to fundraise in order to make their dream a reality and have set up several fundraisers already.
The Romeros are totally committed to loving Patrick and making him part of their family. Please help the Romeros bring Patrick home.
7/13/2017 — AWAITING USCIS APPROVAL
God has been working miracles in their hearts, and the Harmon family is adding a sweet little boy to their family! As their own four children slept safely in their beds, bellies full of food, hearts knowing they are loved, Nikki and Mikey wept as they scrolled through profiles of abandoned children who did not know the safety and love of a family. As they scrolled through page after page of profiles, they kept going back to one little boy who had touched their hearts. He was familiar to them somehow, and before the night was over they had emailed the agency for more information. They hardly slept that night as the weight of these forgotten children weighed heavily on their hearts and wet their pillows with tears. Over the next few days it became clear that God intended for this little boy to teach them about sacrifice and love. Suddenly their perspective had changed and nothing felt as important as bringing him home. Their children did not hesitate for a moment when Nikki and Mikey told them there was a child without a home who needed a family. They cannot wait to hold Landon in their arms!
7/12/2017 — HOMESTUDY COMPLETE
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at theharmonsadopt.blogspot.com
Mark and Rachel Parkinson have been happily married 16 years. We have three beautiful children.. Christian, Naomi and Ella. We have a fun farmette where we enjoy all of our animals and plenty of fresh air!
Adoption has been on Rachel’s heart since she was a little girl…she dreamt of having her own orphanage one day. As time has gone by and prayers for direction made, the Lord opened their eyes to the needs of the orphans of Eastern Europe. Thus has begun our amazing journey leading us to commit to a beautiful little girl “Emma”. We feel so blessed to be called to bring her into our home and call her our own……she is in a very tough place and we are raising funds to bring her home as soon as possible!
5/25/2017 — HOMESTUDY COMPLETE
Jason and Alex Parsley have been happily married for 13 years and have a beautiful family of 5 (now going on 6!). They have 3 biological children: Lily, their oldest daughter, of 12 years old; Laila, their 2nd daughter, at 10 years old, and Jed, their son, who is now 6 years old. Jason and Alex have both been very active in ministry for many years and are very passionate about loving people. Over the last 3 years a stirring began in their hearts for the Orphan Crisis and they began seeking to make a difference . Alex and Lily were led to a mission trip in Asia last year to work with orphans when they met Ethan. They loved him from the moment they saw his sweet little face and he stole a very special place in their hearts. The Parsley family spent almost a year praying over him, praying that he would have the loving family he needed, and asking the Lord to lead them to the child He has for them. After months of searching for his file, accepting that they might not, and praying over many other children, God lead them right back to Ethan. And they are so ready to have this sweet little angel in their arms. The Parsleys are doing everything they can to be good stewards of what they have and raise funds creatively as well. However, they still need help, and would be honored if you would support them in bringing Ethan home.
You can follow their adoption journey at www.spiritorchard.com for regular updates. Thank you in advance for your considerations, support, and donations.
5/22/2017 — HOMESTUDY COMPLETE
Laura is a clinical social worker, founder of a nonprofit called EB Promise that advocates for orphans with EB, and a fierce EB advocate. EB (Epidermolysis Bullosa) is a rare genetic skin disorder in which any sort of friction against the skin causes the skin to blister or tear off completely. Things like seams of clothing, rubbing eyes, brushing teeth and other simple daily tasks we take for granted can cause pain and harm to individuals living with EB. Many people with EB have open wounds all over their bodies, wear bandages from head to toe, and endure painful dressing changes that can last several hours. Infections can be extremely dangerous. If all that weren’t enough, EB also affects people internally. Children with EB are often referred to as “Butterfly Children” because their skin is as fragile as a butterfly’s wings. EB became a part of Laura’s life in 2009 when her friend’s son Jonah (pictured with Laura above) was born with EB and it has since become her life’s passion and work.
We could go on and on about how Jonah and EB has impacted Laura’s life, but it is much shorter to say this: There is only one explanation of why her life has been so impacted by Jonah and EB, and that is Jesus. There is no earthly reason why she should care so much about EB – a disorder that has no direct impact on her life or the lives of any of her family members. But God put EB on her heart and it’s changed the path of her career, her life’s work, and the call on her life. She has known for years that God was calling her to adopt a child with EB, and she is excited to say that the time has finally come!
6/29/2017 — HOMESTUDY COMPLETE
You can follow Laura’s adoption journey at her blog www.adoptingabutterfly.wordpress.com
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.
5/16/2017 — COMPILING DOSSIER
Robert and Louisa have been married for twenty-three years. They are the parents of five children, all through the blessings of adoption.
While traveling to Russia, Guatemala and Ukraine, Robert and Louisa saw the unforgettable faces of children in orphanages they had to leave behind. They witnessed the heartache and misery that comes from growing up without the care of loving parents and living in austere conditions. As Roman Catholics, they believe in the sanctity of every human life.
It was through Reece’s Rainbow they learned about children with special needs needing families. In 2013, they welcomed home a baby girl with Down Syndrome. Being older parents, they thought their family was complete. But, God helped them to trust in His plan. One day, a little boy caught their eye. Something about him spoke to their hearts. He was three-years old and still waiting for his forever family. They knew right away they wanted him. After many prayers they decided to say, “Yes!”
Robert and Louisa want to thank their family and friends that have loved and supported them over the years. Most of all, they want to thank Jesus Christ for His sacrifice on the cross. It would mean so much if you would pray for Bruce and the Ramirez Family. Reece’s Rainbow is so worthy of any support you can give.
6/2/2017 — HOMESTUDY COMPLETE
Brian Dupuis and Jennifer Shea met through mutual friends and began dating over 12 years ago. They both fell in love with each other’s honesty, humor, and love of life. They were married almost 9 years ago in a beautiful church just down the street from where Jennifer had grown up.
Brian and Jennifer have always realized that they were incredibly blessed with an amazing family and wonderful friends. They always knew that they had a lot to give… the couple had talked about adoption off and on for a few years and had even looked at a few adoption sites over those years, but they had never felt that it was the time to act. However, this past December when Jennifer saw a little boy “Pauly” on the Reece’s Rainbow website, she felt an instant connection. For the next several days she woke up thinking about him, he popped into her head at random times throughout the day, and she went to bed praying that he felt safe and loved- and that he would find a family soon. After sharing her experience with her husband, he agreed that it was time to move forward.
Although the couple does not currently have any children of their own, they have many amazing nieces, nephews, and godchildren who they adore. And with the most supportive family and friends by their side, they cannot wait to bring their adopted child into their extended family filled with unconditional love!
6/16/17 —HOMESTUDY COMPLETE
Almost 3 years ago while preparing his file for families to review, adoption worker Stefani Ellison first saw the chubby little face of an endearing toddler boy. His special need was Down Syndrome and he had an extra tiny thumb protruding from his right thumb. That should have been her first clue. He was giving her the “thumbs up” sign no matter what direction she looked at him from. He needed a privacy name and she named him WILKIE.
Months, then years passed, no family came for him. His file left her agency and was assigned to multiple agencies. Still, no family came. His file again returned to her agency and he was included in an Advocacy Camp in November 2016. Stefani was assigned to be one of the traveling staff and her teenaged daughters Alexa and Jaeya were lucky get to go help too.
Alexa has had an extra special place in her heart for Wilkie. She has watched him for years as he waited. She wanted to be assigned as his advocate SO BADLY and in the end she was. She did a fundraiser to earn her plane ticket. They went to camp and needless to say, Wilkie was amazing, utterly ready for them to be friends. While in Asia, Stefani made repeated online posts and plead for someone to find their son Wilkie. Why was his prospective mother not listening?
Camp ended and they said their heartbreaking goodbyes and watched him taken into the elevator with his caregiver. The doors shut on that bright face. Sob. They made the arduous journey home missing Wilkie with their whole hearts.
A few days after returning home, Stefani’s husband Stephen called her from work. He declared, “I need to sell my truck”. To ever see Stephen with that Dodge Mega Cab 350 truck was to know that the beauty was his baby. Stefani wondered what on earth must be broken with it and steeled herself for what was coming next. What she didn’t prepare for was the answer to her question why when Stephen replied, “I need to sell my truck because I think I am supposed to be Wilkie’s dad.” Simply that and hearts were turned and future’s changed.
They have received pre-approval, Stephen’s truck sold and other tender mercies have been shown to them. There is no doubt today that Wilkie is an Ellison son and brother. His time waiting for a family to know he was theirs had finally ended.
The Ellison’s have blended a family, adopted 12 children, been foster parents, and have stepped up many times to help kids from very hard places. It has been painful and sometimes utterly challenging but they are certain they need to step up one more time and bring Wilkie home.
So, they walk towards Wilkie. They enfold him. They will do battle for him. They will sign every piece of unending paperwork with joy in their hearts that they get to be part of this blessing. Please walk with them. Be a partner in their journey. Together be awestruck by what Wilkie will bring into our lives and in what he will give the world.
5/5/2017–AWAITING USCIS APPROVAL
Shannon first discovered international adoption – and Reece’s Rainbow – in 2008 after a heartbreaking miscarriage. She instantly knew adopting internationally was something she wanted to do, but Troy wasn’t so sure. After serving as missionaries in Haiti (Troy) and Paraguay (Shannon), they knew first-hand the difference that good medical care, good nutrition and love made in the lives of children – but Troy felt they were busy enough with their 4 children and worried about the cost and risks involved. Two more miscarriages and finally a surprise baby boy followed over the next 8 years, but the dream of adopting a child in need never left Shannon’s heart – and the reluctance to adopt never left Troy’s!
As soon as they saw the photo of Carrie, a precious little one in pink with melting brown eyes and a fluffy white teddy bear, they BOTH knew they had to do everything in their power to bring her home as quickly as possible! They got through the paperwork as quickly as they could, but sadly, a week before they received USCIS approval (the very last step!), they found out that Carrie had gone into foster care in her country and was unavailable. They believe that God would not have so clearly put their feet on this path for nothing, and are pressing on and looking forward to meeting the special kids He has picked out for them!
8/1/17 —USCIS APPROVED
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.
3/15/17—COMPILING DOSSIER
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.
9/21/2017 — HOMESTUDY COMPLETE
Mike and Rebecca, along with their 6 children, are eager to bring their sweet boy home soon! The Phelps family began their journey into the world of adoption back in 2008 when the original five traveled to meet Maylee for the first time. Since that time, the Phelps family has added Sam David and Emma Clair to their growing family.
Rebecca and the kids recently spent some time volunteering in Southern Asia. They were able to be a part of an incredible organization and help to open and oversee the day to day operations of a foster home for babies with Down syndrome. It was during this time, that God began to put a special boy on their hearts. It first started with Maylee feeling the call to add a little brother to their family. Soon, everyone else was on board and eager to start the process of bringing sweet “Pierce” home.
Would you be willing to partner with the Phelps family as they journey to Asia once again and add this precious baby boy to their family?
9/15/2017 — HOMESTUDY COMPLETE; AWAITING FINGERPRINT APPT
Laurie was raised in a large family, in a small town near the shores of Lake Superior in northeastern Minnesota. There were eight children in the family including Laurie and her identical twin sister. With many cousins growing up in nearby towns, crowds were always expected during holidays or weekend getaways at the family cabin. Eventually, children grew up and moved away to school or jobs as far away as Alaska and Indonesia. Nieces and nephews joined the family and Laurie settled in central Minnesota. While working at a group home there she became licensed to do foster care and soon a four year old boy moved into her home. Three years later Laurie adopted him. When her son was eight years old the little family moved to Minneapolis and Laurie attended school, graduated and moved back to the northeastern part of the state. She began working as a Educational Sign Language Interpreter in the public school system and has been doing that for the past 28 years.
While browsing on line one day, Laurie came upon Reece’s Rainbow and was immediately drawn in, looking at children’s photos and reading family adoption stories. Children with a variety of needs were of special interest ever since high school when Laurie developed a friendship with student who had Down syndrome. Laurie was also involved in the Special Olympics, both while working at group homes and while raising her own son. The picture of one child on the Reece’s Rainbow site caused Laurie to return to the site again and again. She began advocating for that child, posting information about Reece’s Rainbow on social media and donating to families. That did not seem as though it were enough and after eight years that child who had caused her to return to the site so many times, was aging out. This meant he would lead a life without a great deal of learning and opportunity. Sooooo … Laurie is stepping into the world of adoption once again after 30 years! Let’s see where this journey takes her!
10/5/2017 — HOMESTUDY COMPLETE; AWAITING USCIS APPROVAL
Daria and Joe met in 2012, fell in love, and were married in 2014. Joe works as a paralegal for a city agency and Daria works as a vision teacher in a school for children with traumatic brain injuries and multiple disabilities. They have wanted children ever since they were first married. Sadly, while they were able to get pregnant, Daria suffered a miscarriage. Unfortunately while mourning the loss of their child, their doctor told them they would be unable to have another child. Feeling hopeless and lost; they were still overwhelmed with the desire to become parents. Daria and Joe soon looked into adoption.
Daria always advocated for international adoption. One day, while inquiring about the necessary paperwork, their agency asked her to check the profile of a little girl in Eastern Europe, who was waiting for her forever family. When Daria and Joe saw photos and video of “Jenna”, they fell in love with her almost instantly. They found their daughter. As an infant, “Jenna” was born very prematurely. Due to receiving life-saving oxygen, she has retinopathy of prematurity, resulting in almost total blindness. Due to a brain hemorrhage, “Jenna” has developmental delays, and a possibility of Cerebral Palsy. She also has hydrocephaly as a result, but this has been stabilized. Her mother soon abandoned her and “Jenna” was moved to an orphanage upon her improved health. That was over three years ago. She has never known what it’s like to be in a loving family. Nevertheless, she is learning to walk, and is a very curious little girl.
“Jenna” is described as lively and loving by those that meet her, and Daria and Joe think she will be the perfect addition to complete their family. Won’t you help Daria and Joe bring her home by making a donation? Daria and Joe want to bring their daughter home. Your generosity will change three lives, and will be truly appreciated.
9/25/2017 — AWAITING USCIS APPROVAL
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!
10/1/2017 — HOMESTUDY COMPLETE; AWAITING USCIS APPROVAL
Follow along on the family’s adoption journey at: https://nowrey.wixsite.com/growingto4
Christiaan and Kayla have been married for 3 years. During this time, they have had 2 beautiful children. Mila is a sweet and sassy 2-year-old. Maks is a cuddly and loving 1-year-old. It was during their years of dating that Christiaan and Kayla discussed their hope to adopt one day. They were unsure of the timing or any of the details. It was this year that they felt God tugging on their heart. He told them that It was time. A few years ago, Kayla stumbled across the Reece’s Rainbow page. It was at this time that her eyes were opened to the reality that orphans with special needs face every day. It was then that their hearts were turned toward special needs adoption. When they stumbled across a picture of Cole, they commented on how sweet his smile was and kept going. Over the next few days, their hearts and minds kept returning to him. They requested more information and prayed about it. They knew that this little boy was their son. Now they are working diligently to bring Cole home to his forever family!
10/4/2017 — HOMESTUDY COMPLETE; AWAITING USCIS APPROVAL
