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Because every family deserves the blessing of a child with Down Syndrome... |
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Betsy
Girl, born late 2002
Slight mental delay, simple astigmatism
From a family who met her in 2014:
This young lady is very sweet! She is in school and just finished the 3rd level. Betsy likes to color, read, run, swing on the playground, and dance. When we were able to talk to her she seemed slightly shy but very calm and gentle. Betsy is articulate and seems only slightly delayed. She and my daughter hugged and cried when they had to say good-bye. Betsy really wants to come to America. She would be a wonderful addition to any family!
I would love to share more with seriously interested families.
Brock
Boy, born early 2004
Slight mental delay, astigmatism, mitral valve prolapse of I stage
From a family who met him in 2014:
This boy is an absolute treasure! He is kind-hearted and thoughtful of others. Brock enjoys dancing in school productions, doing school work on the computer, shooting hoops, playing soccer, reading books, painting and cutting out art projects, and sliding down slides. He is one of my daughter’s really good friends. They hugged and cried when my daughter left the orphanage. Brock desperately needs a family to rescue him and give him a joyful life full of love.
I would love to share more with seriously interested families.
Leighton
Boy, born 2014
Down syndrome, parasitic disease, disorder of the brain, atrial septal defect,
vit D deficiency, disorder of the urinary system, hydrocele, anemia
Mark
Boy, born 2014
Down syndrome
(picture taken at 1 month old)
Brandi
Girl, Born August 2007
brain malformations, bilateral hearing loss,significant cognitive delays, heart condition strabismus, anemia
Brandi is a beautiful 7 year old girl. She is listed with bilateral hearing loss, but can definitely hear, as she will turn around and look for the person calling her name, and does respond to commands given if she chooses (if she doesn’t, she screams/attempts to run/swats at the caregiver). Cognitively, she is very delayed, more like a toddler, in ability to understand what’s going on around her, and in her responses, and appropriateness. She also has strabismus in both eyes, and has both a heart condition and anemia. She does NOT have CP, nor microcephaly. She does have brain malformations, significant developmental delays, and many stimming behaviors that are typical of lower functioning autism. She is completely nonverbal.
Families interested in Brandi should be aware that she appears to have autism, and that it impacts her significantly. She is a “runner” and will bolt and run unless contained or restrained and potential families need to be aware that this is common in autism, and that they will need to take appropriate measures to keep her safe in a home and family. She has a history of aggression when changes occur, such as a move, or unexpected event, which include biting peers and adults, and she struggled for at least a year after her last orphanage change four years ago, but is doing better now. However, as many with autism thrive on routine and predictability, families need to be aware that she may handle a transition poorly, especially at first. She has excellent mobility, and is very typically sized for a normal 7 year old in weight and height, and when she resists, it is challenging for a grown woman to hold her back. She has been in a school for the deaf, however, she knows no sign language nor does she read lips. She is very much in her own world in many ways. She enjoys music and will sometimes clap, but remains disconnected from the group and does not interact with adults (was not seen with peers).
Brandi attempts to smell/lick everything that is handed to her and when she realizes it isn’t food, she is not typically interested. The nannies report that she has an excellent appetite, and that she enjoys eating. She stims by rocking, throwing herself back and forth, sucking all four fingers on her hand, grunting, and moaning/shrieking. She walks with a lurching gallop. She flaps her hands often. A potential family should be aware that she has no awareness of danger, no fear of strangers and is very much like a very young child emotionally and cognitively, but physically is strong and very mobile. She currently takes psychiatric medications to assist in sleep and behavior.
She is a lovely little girl, with beautiful blond hair and clear complexion. She is in a good orphanage where she is well cared for. Families need to research autism, and be comfortable and familiar with caring safely for a child with the issues mentioned above, in order to provide Brandi with a safe, loving home.
$9,672.49 will also be available towards the cost of my adoption!
Boy, born 2010
Boy, born 2012
Boy, born 2012Ginny
Girl, born 2008
Backbone separation with hydrocephalus, cross- eye, Atrophy of eye nerves. Other and unspecified hydronephrosis on the left side.
Lorelie
Girl, born 2008
Mental delays, Cerebral Palsy, development delay. Atrophy of eye nerve. Cardiopathy.
From someone who met her in June 2013: ”She was one of my absolute favorite kids I met! She is just the sweetest thing. She is diagnosed with MR not sure she really is. She was giggling and introduced herself by saying her name. She has a huge smile! She has a special nanny that does PT with her. She was bed bound when I met her but she came from a very good orphanage before she was transferred here. She needs out now!!”
Paige
Girl, born 2004
Mental delays. Down syndrome, cardiopathia. Umbilical hernia. Convergent squint.
Paige had previously been living with her mother until she lost her rights.
She can sit independently and can crawl! Her speech is not well developed but she can partially understand what you are saying. She has a very short attention span.
Update June 2013:
Lovely Paige has hair now! She broke my heart. She was just sitting on the couch rocking back and forth and didn’t respond at all when I came over to her. Poor, sweet thing!! The nannys love her, but she needs more than they can give. I am not sure if the move was hard on her or what but she just rocked and rocked.
Vera
Girl, born 2007
Birth anomaly brain development, microcephaly with tetraparesis, convulsive syndrome. Mental delays. Convergent squint. Partial optic atrophy. Umbilical hernia.
Oh sweet Vera! She spends much of her day in the crib and she needs stimulation!! She is living on borrowed time. She has tremendous potential for improvement if only she is given the chance. She will require medical attention and families should expect at the very least physical therapy.
Update June 2013:
Vera is doing well! She looks good — but she still spends too much time in her crib.
Vera needs a family!
Shayla
Girl, born 2004
Diagnoses: deep mental delay. Cerebral paralysis- double spastic form, microcephaly. Strabismus, divergent squint, and Optic atrophy. First degree anemia.
Sweet little Shayla could tremendously use a family and medical attention to help her thrive. She has already been living in this orphanage for 3 years and risks soon having to be transferred to a place where adoption will be next to impossible.
Her speech is not well developed, she holds toys in her hands for brief periods of time (but she sure does love to hold stuffed animals!), she has a reaction when you say her name but she is not able to communicate back but she smiles. She walks with support- can”t walk independently. Children in this orphanage need families! They do not receive enough interaction/therapy to help them thrive. They are seen as hopeless but we know that is not true!
Update June 2013:
This is not a great picture [on the right] but she would NOT sit still. She was wanting to move!! She thought it was so funny and would not stop laughing and rocking back and forth about the camera. The nannys also were laughing with her- her laugh and happiness is very infectious.
Venetia
Girl, born 2005
Mild to moderate delays, needs dental work
Sweet girl! She needs a mama to paint her nails and braid her hair. She’s trying so hard to force a smile for the camera.
Karis
Girl, born 2007
Symptomatic epilepsy, autism, development delay, scoliosis, dermatitis, mental delays
She loved, loved loved the camera. Could not get enough of it but she would prefer to hold it herself. She was able to follow directions and was playing independently with toys.
Lauren
Girl, Born 2002
Lauren says “HI Mama!! I’m here waiting for you!” (in this photo she is riding a rocking horse!)
Lauren is a super-sweet and active little girl. She is very social and affectionate, and will do well in a family setting.
From her medical records: chondrodysplasia
As with all children living in these difficult conditions, this child’s cognitive development has regressed significantly since he/she was younger. It is of crucial importance that any family considering the adoption of an older child from the mental institution setting be well prepared for what to expect with regards to how the neglect and lack of adequate medical care and nourishment has affected this child. These children all have TREMENDOUS potential for improvement, and deserve to have a life outside these four walls.
Dolly
Girl, born 2008
Mental delays, anomaly innate of development of central nervous system and spinal hernia with lower paraplegia, cross- eye. Chronic kidney infections (obstructive pyelonephritis, and congenital megaureter)
From someone who met her, summer 2013:
This girl has my heart. I can not get her off my mind! I wish I was in a place to adopt or I would go get her. I really, really hope a family falls in love with her like I have! I got to kiss her and love on her for a little bit. No idea what she was saying to me but she gave the biggest smile- very photogenic. I can’t bear to think about her just sitting in the wheelchair and watching the other kids play!
Eponine
Girl, born 2007
Cerebral palsy, dysplastic cardiopathy, first degree flatfoot, incorrect posture, hearing loss, epilepsy
Frieda
Girl, born 2002
Mild to moderate delays, Cerebral Palsy
Update June 2013:
Frieda is also very sweet but is delayed. She is shy when you meet her but she loves lollipops and will smile for one 
There is video also available with her in it, for interested families. She knew the words to the lyrics to the songs they performed and also tried to dance along to the music. She does like to rock a little bit when she sits more than likely to self-soothe.
Alexey
Boy, Born 2001
Alexey is consdered significantly delayed. He is fully mobile, and oh so handsome! But he has been given a second chance at life, saved from the mental institution and living in this well-kept school setting.
From a family who met him, Sept 2012:
Alexei is really a handsome guy and I think he knows it! He was playing ball with his groupa and is very active. When he was given a cookie from us he said thank you appropriately and made perfect eye contact. He will be a joy to any family with sons at home!
Update June 2013:
Alexey has a very big sweet tooth! He would not put down his lollipop to take a picture- when asked he told us politely “No, thank you.”
Angela
Girl, born 2001
Diagnosis: severe grade of the mental delay, hydrocephalus, fibrosis of hyaloid, secondary glaucoma, exfoliation/detachment of retina, congenital defect of the heart partition
Angela is very small for her age. She needs a family!
Update June 2013:
She is so sweet. She is blind, but follows with her head your voice and she smiles very big when you talk to her! She has such potential but is in a bed!!
Adelina
Girl, born 2002
Mild to moderate delays
Another lovely young lady, still waiting for her forever family.
Update June 2013:
This picture does not show off her true beauty! She loved wearing this dress as when she danced the beads went flying. She has some pretty good dancing moves! I am not sure if she knew the words to the song but her mouth moved the entire time. She also rocks when she sits and does present as delayed. She has a very sweet, shy smile.
Girl, born 2006
Nadene
Girl, born 2005
Diagnsis: mental delays, light degree tetraparesis (CP)
Miss Nadene has regressed greatly in the orphanage. She has bad memory and attention. She is very shy and quiet. She needs help often but she can walk with support. She could use the love of a family to really blossom!
UPDATE 2013:
She is a mover! It was difficult to get her to stand still.
Havalah
Girl, born 2005
Mild to moderate mental delays
This little peach is just waiting for a family of her own!
Update June 2013:
So disappointed her new picture is fuzzy. She is teeny-tiny and a very happy little girl!
Coralina
Girl, born 2004
Mild to moderate mental delays
Isn’t she just the sweetest?
Update June 2013:
Coralina is also such a sweet girl! She loved the beach balls and was running around the room making sure they all stayed in one place. She is very small especially considering she is almost 9. She is in a video, available to interested families.
Alys
Girl, born February 2003
Mental delays, fetal alcohol syndrome, microcephaly, partial atrophy of optic nerve, birth vitium cordis
Alys is a beautiful, sweet girl who is already 9 years old! She has significant mental delays, FAS, microcephaly and partial atrophy of optic nerve. She could greatly benefit from a family!
Update June 2013:
She was about ready to take her nap when I saw her. She already had her hands behind her head relaxing! She does get out of her crib and her orphanage just created an outside safe space for older children who are in cribs.
Married couples only. Larger families and older parents welcome.
Delta
Girl, born 2003
Mild to moderate delays, left eye condition
Update June 2013:
Look at Delta- isn’t she beautiful?! She is SO, SO sweet- we gave the kids lollipops and she grabbed my hand and squeezed it and said thank you. She is very “with it”- the kids danced for me and she was one of the very few that was on beat! She is able to follow directions and imitate. I have a video but for privacy reasons I can’t put it on her profile but if a family is considering her I would be happy to share!
Justine
Girl, Born 2001
From her medical records: congenital microcephaly, autism
Justine is a pretty girl with dark hair and eyes. She is fully mobile and active. Her face bears features of FAS, but this is not documented and is only a cautionary disclosure.
As with all children living in these difficult conditions, this child’s cognitive development has regressed significantly since he/she was younger. It is of crucial importance that any family considering the adoption of an older child from the mental institution setting be well prepared for what to expect with regards to how the neglect and lack of adequate medical care and nourishment has affected this child. These children all have TREMENDOUS potential for improvement, and deserve to have a life outside these four walls.
Kiersten
Girl, Born 2000
ALIVE and WAITING!
A question was raised about whether Kiersten had passed away, but this photo was taken March 14, 2012 
She still needs a family!
Isn’t Kiersten beautiful? She is 12 years old but is still very much a toddler. She is not able to walk on her own. There is nothing in her medical records to indicate why she is so delayed, and she does not show obvious facial features of FAS…her needs are quite unknown.
From her medical records: significant mental delay, congenital hypothyroidism
As with all children living in these difficult conditions, this child’s cognitive development has regressed significantly since he/she was younger. It is of crucial importance that any family considering the adoption of an older child from the mental institution setting be well prepared for what to expect with regards to how the neglect and lack of adequate medical care and nourishment has affected this child. These children all have TREMENDOUS potential for improvement, and deserve to have a life outside these four walls.
Cheryl
Girl, born 2004
Mild to moderate delays
Update June 2013:
She is delayed but she tries very hard to keep up with everything. She is super, super smiley- like she could not stop smiling and giggling. She loved singing and she also loved watching everyone else dance (she did not participate). She also rocks when she sits, but again probably to self-soothe. There is video available with her in it as well.
Alisha
Girl, Born 2003
Alisha was born with Penn-Sjogren Syndrome. We do not have any other info indicating why she may be cognitively and physically delayed. She has cognitive delays, and a divergent squint.
Update 2012:
Little Miss Alisha’s eyesight has regressed significantly. She needs a family!
She can’t move by herself but she tries to sit. Her speech is not developed. Mental processes are not formed. Ideation is not developed. Alisha is friendly and quiet. Her emotional world is poor. She needs care constantly.
Update June 2013:
Look how good she looks! When I saw her she was sitting on the floor with another child, and she reached out and tugged on my pant leg almost like “look at me!” I said her name, and she gave me a big grin.
Chrystyna
Girl, Born 2002
SIGNIFICANT RISK, PLEASE ADOPT ME SOON!!
Chrystyna is a beautiful, brown haired, brown eyed girl who deserves a chance at a better life! Her official orphanage papers say she has developmental delays/difficulties from birth, but nothing more specific than that. It is possible she has FAS (Fetal Alcohol Syndrome). Her biological mother was deprived her parental rights in December 2004, and the biological father is not known. Chrystyna has so much potential, and will be a precious gift to any family who adopts her.
Chrystyna is already living in an institution, so we need a family for her right away!
UPDATE: God has been watching Chrystyna. She was recently transferred out of the institution into a wonderful facility, where they teach these children, work with them, and they appear very well cared for. The difference in the few girls who were transferred OUT of the institution is incredible! Please give these girls a second chance for a loving family!
If you are unfamiliar with FAS, please spend some time researching this condition. Just as with Down syndrome, FAS and FAE have a wide variation of effects on each child, both medically, physically, and cognitively. This is typically dependent on how long during the pregnancy the mother consumed alcohol, and of course, how much. There is no way to know this ahead of time.
From a family who met her, Sept 2012:
She is getting settled into her new environment. She seems to be very comfortable in her groupa. She is very beautiful and still has a lot of potential. She deserves a chance!
From someone who met her, June 2013:
During the music performance, she was constantly stimming really fast (like it looks like she is being fast forwarded) and after they finished she was taken out by a nanny. Not sure what is going on with her; If interested families want to see the videos they are welcome to! I know a family tried to take pictures of her last year but couldn’t get a good one because she moved so much!
Anastasia
Girl, Born 2002
Cerebral Palsy, mild/moderate mental delays
Anastasia is a lovely young lady with blonde hair and blue eyes. Anastasia was born with CP, and has difficulty walking, but she is very smart and affectionate and doing well. Physical therapy will work wonders for her. She will be a wonderful daughter for anyone who considers her!
Update June 2013:
This girl is a dancer! She does not let her CP stop her and she was up and dancing up and down to the music. She is mobile and does walk unassisted but poor thing desperately needs PT and is not receiving it. Her legs do not go straight
Soleil
Girl, born 2001
Mild to moderate mental delays
Soleil comes very highly recommended from the orphanage director. She has shown great progress since she entered the orphanage.
She is running out of time — a family must be found for her before she turns 16!
Update June 2013:
Soliel really stands out. She is a helper. She was helping the younger children stand up and dance and they were watching her to mimic what to do. She seems to be one of children that helps the orphanage staff as she is able to follow directions. She can read and speaks very clearly when asked questions. It is unclear why she is in this specific orphanage and they pointed her out specifically as needing a family! She is a very sweet girl who said she has dreamed about having a family but isn’t sure if she will ever have one- it just about broke my heart. There is also video available with her in it!
Jessica
Girl, born August 2009
Love the grin on this little love!
Jessica has congenital brain malformation. She has a heart defect: stenosis of the pulmonary artery, and an atrial septal defect.
She has vision issues (listed as optic atrophy and also nystagmus). She is listed as anemic and malnourished.
Families should be aware that her medical history says FAS (fetal alcohol syndrome), as well.
MORE PHOTOS AVAILABLE. Married couples only, travel required, larger families ok.
Reilly
Girl, born 2003
Cerebral palsy
From a family that spent time with her January 2015:
Very sweet girl who loved to practice English with me. Very tight scissor gait but walks with walker and up and down stairs. She also can hop a bit like a frog on hands and feet when she doesn’t have her walker. She is polite and likes chocolate! She seems a little shy but not so much she wouldn’t talk to us. I have tons of photos because there was a whole bunch of selfies with my daughter.
Rebecca
Girl, born 2004
Down syndrome
From an adoptive family who met her in Jan 2015: ”I sat next to Rebecca today at an orphanage Christmas concert. She is SO cute! When she came in to sit down, she was SO excited to be there. She saw a boy in the row in front of us that she knew, and they greeted each other warmly. Her smile lit up her whole face.
We were sitting in the last row, so she stood quiet and attentive during the concert, her hands on the back of the chair in front of her, peering between adults’ shoulders to see her friends and classmates perform. Her hair was elaborately pulled back into a series of little ponytails on top of her head, which were then braided together. The caregiver sitting next to her obviously likes her quite a lot. At the end, of the concert, all the kids who are mobile were taken up to dance around the Christmas tree, and she and little Wetherby (who really is quite little)! danced next to each other in the circle. ”
Ian
Boy, born 2004
Arthrogryposis of legs
Ian has total control and use of his hands, good flexibility and good fine motor skills. His arms also don’t seem affected by the arthrogryposis, and he has full range of shoulder motion. He walks with his legs stiff and unbending, balancing on one side and then the other as he swings his body around to move forward. He has very little, if any, flexibility in his knees.
From the waist up, Ian is about the size of a normal 10yo. His head, arms, hands, and shoulder width are all very comparable to a typical American 10yo. However, his legs are very thin and very short, about the length of a 4yo, if even that, and his feet are the size of a toddler’s. As a result of the proportion disparity, his hands when down at his side extend to his knees. He does not have club feet.
From a family who met him in late 2014:
Ian is a wonderful, wonderful child! He will do fabulously in a family. He always has a smile on his face and is happy to see us each day when we visit our son. When we arrive, he always makes eye contact with me and smiles his huge, infectious smile after I say hello. Ian isn’t all over us begging for our attention the way some of the children are. His personality is more reserved than that, and he absolutely blossoms when we talk to him or pay him any attention. He’s very bright and attends a regular school. He is polite and friendly. He played important roles in both the New Year’s and the Christmas pageants, and he danced and moved and smiled and sang along with the other kids — so cute! Ian recited his lines so well!
While Ian’s walking is slow, he is fully mobile and doesn’t let his physical limitations stop him from doing what he wants to do. From what I can tell, Ian takes care of all of his personal needs without help. The orphanage is set up in a recurring series of half-floors, so there are are staircases all over the orphanage. Ian holds on to the handrails and moves slowly but does handle the stairs all on his own.
Elinor
Girl, born 2009
Mental delay
Elinor understands everything, follows directions, but she does not speak.
Wetherby
Boy, born 2008
Down syndrome
From a family who met Wetherby in Jan 2015:
He is a sweet little kid! He loves to dance and loves music. He is incredibly tiny for his age and definitely needs a family’s love and care to help him grow. He is in the same group as Rebecca. They frequently dance together to music the caregivers will play for them on the TV.
Girl, born 2014
Girl, born 2010Cristoff
Boy, born 2011
Down syndrome, Profound mental delays, Vomiting associated with other psychological disturbances, Umbilical hernia without obstruction or gangrene, Divergent concomitant strabismus, Other cardiomyopathies (open foramen ovale)
Boy, born 2012Joseph
Boy, born 2009
Down Syndrome, residual-organic lesion of the central nervous system, low paraparesis, slight mental delay, valgus feet, muscle hypotonia, diaphragmatic hernia (had surgery in May 2013), crossed eyes, congenital partial optic nerves atrophy.
He can sit, stand up, make steps. He does not talk. He expresses interest in toys. He lived with his mother but she passed away recently.
Kevin
Boy, born 2010
Congenital bullous ichthyosiform erythroderma; Other pervasive developmental disorders; Chronic rhinitis; Acquired deformity of limb, unspecified; Other general delays; Other forms of herpesviral infection; Congenital toxoplasmosis
Kevin will be available for adoption in late 2015.
Kevin is a smart and well-developed boy! His main health issue is his skin disease.
Landon
Boy, born 2009
Microcephaly, Tetraparesis, Severe mental delays (with the statement of no, or minimal, impairment of behavior), Lack of expected normal physiological development, Convergent concomitant strabismus, Iron deficiency anaemia, Undescended testicle (bilateral)
Lucas
Boy, born 2008
Spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy, Severe mental delays (with the statement of no, or minimal, impairment of behavior), Undescended testicle (bilateral), Convergent concomitant strabismus, Nystagmus and other irregular eye movements, Cardiomyopathy, unspecified
Ruby
Girl, born 2010
Congenital malformation syndromes due to Fetal alcohol syndrome, Other pervasive developmental disorders, Lack of expected normal physiological development, Iron deficiency anemia, Cardiomyopathy, unspecified
Available for adoption in spring 2015
Note: Ruby has a healthy sibling brother, who is *NOT* adoptable for adoption, due to his paperwork. A family who commits to Ruby should be prepared for a possible delay in country, due to “separation” of siblings.
Chloe
Girl, born 2010
Congenital heart defect: Ventricular septal defect, Atrial septal defect; Convergent concomitant strabismus; Mental and physiological delays; Acquired deformity of chest and rib
Donny
Boy, born 2009
Pervasive developmental disorders, Hypertrophy of adenoids, Cardiomyopathy, unspecified, Complicated cataract, Myopia
He has little sight, but he is a very friendly and happy boy!
Madison
Girl, born 2004
Severe mental delays, anemia, other disorders of optic disc, Other specified acquired deformities of limbs
Madison may be transferred to mental institution SOON. She is delayed, does not talk. She understands and follows simple directions.
Mason
Boy, born 2003
Spastic diplegic cerebral palsy, profound mental delays, Other disorders of optic disc, general delays
Mason is facing transfer to the institution
Caroline
Girl, born 2004 (outdated picture)
Mental Delay, mitral valve prolapse, secondary cardiopathy, umbilical hernia
Roman
Boy, born 2013
Hydrocephalus, had surgery at 3 months to install shunt.
Roman was born prematurely. He is a twin — the healthy twin went home with the parents.
Roman makes very good eye contact, is trying to talk, likes to play with toys.
Jacob
Boy, born 2006
Sequelae of inflammatory diseases of central nervous system; syndrome of movement disorders; severe mental delay
Boy, born 2013George, Dorothy, Robin, and Jeb
Boy, born 2010
Atrial septal defect (condition after surgery on December 20, 2012), mitral valve insufficiency of 2 stage, tricuspid insufficiency of 1-2 stage, circulatory deficiency of 1 stage, atrial septal defect Q 21.1, fetal alcohol syndrome, delay of physical and mental development – alcoholic embryopathy Q 86.0, severe astigmatism of both eyes H 52.2, primary pulmonary hypertention I 27.0.
Girl, born 2009
Healthy
Girl, born 2001
HIV
Boy, born 1999
Healthy
Alexandra
Girl, born 2003
Slight mental delay, HIV
Information from the family who adopted her close friend:
According to our daughter she is very sweet, she is neat (as in keeps things organized and clean), she loves to help, and she was a very loyal and good friend. I do know that after a while, the way she was treated at the orphanage caused her to cry often and thus they sent her to a different school. My daughter was similar and is doing wonderfully … her aunt has gone to see her once or twice and worries about her condition there.
Twin boys, born 2009
Boy, born 2012
Girl, born 2012Ronald
Boy, born 2014
Brain affection of unspecified etiology, congenital multiple arthrogryposis, Jarcho-Levin syndrome, Freeman-Sheldon syndrome
Cherie
Girl, Born Dec 2009
Crouzon syndrome
Sweet Cherie …. she needs a family desperately! Picture on the left is from December 2012, on the right is from summer 2012. Additional pictures available.
Cherie needs a family fast! From her medical records: congenital anomaly of the skull, feet and hands. Cleft hard palate, CHD, OOO, aortic defect. Hydrocephalus
UPDATE OCT 2014:
She was born end of 2009. She was born via c-section and a full term baby with Aperts Syndrome and Hydrocephalus. She has had multiple surgeries to include a separation of both her pinkies from her other fused fingers. She uses her hands and feet very well to get what she wants. She had a shunt placed for her hydro as well. Soon after her first surgery the shunt failed and after some time they did a second surgery. The surgery did not go well and a significant amount of brain damage was sustained and the second shunt was not able to be placed as a result of the damage. She also has difficulty with sight. Mostly though she threw any toy or object near her. She crawls and scoots to get around and does not speak but makes noises. She seems to know her name but does not make eye contact when her name is called. We were told she likes “baby toys”- things with bright lights, colors, noise, and also that she likes music. She is able to eat regular soft foods but is spoon fed, she is able to use a sippy cup. She currently spends most of her time in her stroller. We were told that she is developmentally around 18 months but we think more like 8-10 months from what we saw in 3 hours. She is a very sweet wonderful little girl who needs a family who can meet her needs and love her well.
Update Jan 2015, from someone who knows Cherie: The current description of her underestimates her. Yes, she does have some brain damage, but she’s a very smart little girl. She definitely makes eye contact. She understands speech directed at her and what is said over her head. She has several “signs” that she has made up to show when she’s hungry or wants a drink. I only see her weekly, but she clearly knows me and responds to me. She cried when I left her today; she usually does. (I know, no normal person wants to see a child cry, but in this case, it’s a good sign.) I so want to see a family come for her! If anyone is interested in adopting her, I would be very happy to correspond with them.
From a family who met her in early 2015:
This precious little girl is an absolute delight & would VERY MUCH benefit from a family! She is extremely loving ~ she’s able to receive & give love. She loves to be held and rocked and can easily form attachments. She completely understands what her caregivers tell her and responds to their instructions. She DOES make eye contact when she is spoken to directly, especially when she hears her name & even when she hears her name being called from across the room. Upon hearing the word “juice” (which she loves), she immediately starts grabbing for a cup to drink. I imagine that it would not take her very long at all to understand English because she will be in a family teaching her with love ~ the one thing she consistently responds to!
She is also funny because she can be a little “stinker” with an attitude when she doesn’t get things she wants or things don’t go her way. I’m extremely happy about this b/c these are very healthy child personality traits. Can you imagine what love, commitment, & nurturing from a FOREVER FAMILY can do for this sweet baby girl?!? Can you imagine how she will thrive?!? She is WORTHY and DESERVES a family!!
Aria
Girl, born 2008
Spina bifida with hydrocephalus, cerebral palsy, deep mental delay, congenital deformity of the hip, congenital ptosis, optic nerve atrophy, iron and protein deficiency
This tiny girl has spent a lot of time in the hospital. She needs a loving family to be by her side and help her receive top-notch care.
Esteban
Boy, born 2012
disorder of the brain, epilepsy, ectopic perineal testis, ventricular septal defect, other congenital malformations of the cardiac septa
update 2/15 – He had last seizure in October 2014. He is on medication for epilepsy. His heart condition does not require surgery.
Clyde
Boy, born 2013
Down syndrome, HIV, disorder of brain, atopic dermatitis, torticollis, atrial septic defect, biliary tract issue
Sweet baby boy!
Hopefully we’ll get a new picture soon.
Nora
Girl, born 2013
Congenital malformation of the central nervous system, symptomatic epilepsy, atactic syndrome, tetraparesis, porencephalia
Mandy
Girl, Born 2010
syndactyly of hands and feet, steeple tower head, psychological and motor delay, Congenital heart defect (patent foramen ovale, secondary defect of interatrial septum)
Many will be available in early 2015.
We are so glad to finally be able to relist Mandy! She was born with multiple skeletal anomalies, including fused/webbed hands.
The girl is smiling, laughing. She reaches for toys. She walks in baby-jumper. Doctors consider that surgery may help to separate her fingers on the hands. They give a positive prognosis regarding her mental development. More photos are available.
This region typically waives the 10 day waiting period for children with special needs.
Boy, born 2012Ellis
Boy, born 2013
Spina bifida
Please look past all the pink, this adorable baby is a BOY! The picture is a year old; hoping to get an updated one soon.
Updated pics and info Jan 2015:
He is a very nice boy. He is trying to stand on his feet and moves around in walkers. He is very smart. He desperately needs a family to help him blossom. He has very good potential.
Boy, born 2012Judith
Girl, born 2012
CP, dual hemiplegia
Judith cannot walk or sit independently. But she shows interest in toys and reacts to speech addressed to her.
Griffin
Boy, born 2011
CP, mental delay
Griffin can walk with help, understands simple instructions, can say separate words.
Elsbeth
Girl, born 2000
Down syndrome, mental delays
Such a lovely young lady — she’s been waiting so long for a family of her own.
Mathis
Boy, born 2013
Multiple congenital arthrogryposis, internal hydrocephalus, open oval window
updated pics Jan 2015 and medical info:
Multiple congenital arthrogryposis, thymic hypoplasia, hypoplasia of abdominal wall muscles, crossed eyes, additional chord in the heart.
He had surgery. He is developing well. Smart boy. Needs out asap.
Clarice
Girl, born July 1999
Down syndrome
Clarice’s pictures are so fun to see – she seems to be all sunshine and motion! She has such an amazing grin!
Clarice is so tiny; and she has many facial features of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, in addition to her Down syndrome.
She has the personality of an impetuous toddler- very high energy and eager to try everything life has to offer. She too needs a family, and the sooner the better. The possibilities for a child to thrive when they reach a family are endless. She will definitely need medical attention, as you can tell from just seeing her teeth, and lots of patient instruction and guidance.
Update from May 2014:
Clarice has a sunshine smile, twinkling eyes, and a unique set of needs, as she is the victim of at least one confirmed type of maternal substance abuse in addition to having Down Syndrome and scoliosis. She has spent the entirety of her almost-15 years of her life without the essential and nurturing maternal and paternal bond. She is a sweet-natured, not loud, strong, and curious child who is the size of a slender six year-old. She is cognitively about two years old. She IS able to obey the stern orphanage nannies, and enjoys massage, stroller rides, sensory activities if she is offered, joint stimulation, and can walk. Clarice can engage in purposeful play and follow basic instructions. She bear-crawls (think Jungle Book) many times, and really has a gentle disposition. Her eyes are innocent and kind, and her personality is gentle and sweet. It is not fair to expect a child in this condition to “perform” for a room full of adults, and she is enamored and thankful with any offers of play or stimulation. She has a self-stimming habit of pushing on her private parts under her underpants, but as I have learned in the DS community, this is probably a result of a lack of sensory input. So, if given the right redirection through sensory play, her habit could be redirected. Clarice has the strength of a man when she wants you to hold her, and it is my opinion that it is unsuitable for her to have several physically smaller siblings. However, that is not legislated. There are several telling videos and photos of Clarice to share for the right family. She needs a family ASAP! I was told by a national regarding the kind of place she goes next — that “most children live for only one year at most once transferred.” Please pray for precious Clarice. Could you love her as a daughter? God knows her name, and he will provide her needs.
Veronica
Girl, born 2000
Mild Cerebral palsy, can walk very well.
Veronica is a lovely young lady. She is able to walk, stand on her own.
Clarence
Boy, born August 2013
Spastic tetraparesis, local symptomatic epilepsy with seizures, congenital heart defect: hypoplasia of aortic arch, open oval window; optic nerve atrophy, inquinal hernia and umbilical hernia, lower extremities contracture
Oh sweet baby boy … he needs a family’s love and care.
Carter
Boy, born Nov 2011
Cerebral palsy, double hemiplegia G 80.0.
What a little sweetheart! Don’t you just want to scoop him up!
Oskar
Boy, born late 2011
congenital absense of ear, canal, hand/finger, fused fingers, cleft palate, congenital malformation of cardiac septa
Oskar has had surgery for his cleft palate.
Additional pictures available.
Toby
Boy, born early 2005
Celiac disease
From a family who met him in December 2014:
Toby is the cutest little kid, a very serious and focused child with a great smile. He was in the orphanage’s St. Nicholas Day celebration. He didn’t have a role himself, but he was responsible for pushing the wheelchair of one of the children who was doing a lot of singing and dancing from her wheelchair. He gen