They Went through All the Circles of Hell - The Truth Behind Their Adoption

22 Nov 2024

An adopted family is a testament to love's incredible power to bridge gaps and build unbreakable bonds. In their home, differences melt away, leaving room for shared laughter, cherished memories, and unconditional support. Each member brings their story into a beautiful tapestry of belonging and joy. 50 happy stories about adoption are here. 

Dreams Do Come True

In 2010, four siblings—Kimberly, Keishaune, Ke’Rel, and Keimarla, aged 3 to 10—entered foster care after enduring abuse and neglect. Their mother struggled with substance use, and her boyfriend’s threats forced the courts to intervene for their safety. While foster care protected them, the siblings faced challenges like separation and frequent moves due to a lack of suitable homes for sibling groups.

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@Dreams Do Come True: Four Teen Siblings Adopted by Loving Family/kansas.kvc.org

After two years, the children’s mother lost parental rights, and they longed for a family willing to adopt them together. That dream came true when Tate and Meriam Thompson, parents of three, found their profiles online. Initially skeptical, the siblings warmed up after meeting the Thompsons, leading to a joyful adoption. Today, the expanded family thrives, demonstrating the transformative power of love and belonging.

The Important Mission

A young couple started their marriage with a shared goal: to grow their family through adoption. Initially, they hoped to adopt a healthy girl under four. However, as they encountered children with medical needs, trauma, and older ages waiting for families, their perspective shifted. 

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@thechristianheart/facebook.com

Their hearts were moved to say yes to Ben, their first adopted child. Parenting Ben meant learning sign language and advocating tirelessly for his needs. Now, they are preparing to welcome a daughter with significant medical challenges. Despite uncertainties, they are committed to providing a forever home filled with love.

The Teacher Who Changed One Boy's Life

Once a compassionate second-grade teacher and her husband transformed their lives and the life of a young boy. The boy entered the teacher's class midyear, having spent most of his childhood in foster care. When his foster parents divorced, he faced yet another move into an uncertain future.

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 @Mongo1021/reddit.com

With no children of their own, the couple decided to welcome the boy into their family. After completing the necessary checks and training, the boy arrived at their door with all his belongings in a half-filled garbage bag. Now a thriving 16-year-old, he’s a cherished part of the family and has his sister.

A Loving Single Dad

In Italy, a single father adopted a baby girl with Down syndrome after she was rejected by 20 families. Adoption laws in Italy generally prohibit single parents from adopting, except in special cases, such as when a child has a disability. This made the adoption possible but his journey was not easy.

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@ChrisHammer94/reddit.com

At first, he was rejected. But later, given his experience of volunteering with disabled children, he was given a chance. Today he is raising a little girl with Down syndrome, who is very happy to have such a loving and caring father.

Strong Beliefs in Upbringing

UFC fighter Michael Chandler and his wife Brie adopted two African-American boys, Hap in 2017 and Ace in 2022. During an interview in April 2024, Chandler shared his perspective on raising his sons. He emphasized that his focus is on teaching character, integrity, and kindness rather than race.

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@Sorealism/reddit.com

Chandler’s comments sparked a strong reaction online. Critics argued that his approach might leave his children unprepared for the challenges of racism. Despite the backlash, Chandler stands by his belief that his sons should grow up understanding the importance of character, not defined by their race.

Brazilian Actors Adopted Two Children

Giovanna Ewbank and Bruno Gagliasso, well-known actors in Brazil, expanded their family through adoption. It happened after a life-changing encounter in Africa. Giovanna went there for charity work, where she encountered a 3-year-old girl named Chisomo. Giovanna quickly formed a deep bond with the child and decided to introduce her husband, Bruno, to Chisomo. 

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@basedtho/reddit.com

After meeting with this girl, the couple knew they wanted to become her parents. They love for Chisomo led to their decision to adopt her. Later, they decided to adopt a boy from Africa as well. Now Chimoso has a brother.

Overcoming Obstacles

Traveling during the pandemic presented countless obstacles but the Alderman family overcame them to complete their adoption journey. With unwavering faith, patience, and determination, they navigated travel restrictions, quarantines, and endless uncertainties to reach Taiwan. There, they joyfully welcomed their beautiful daughters into their family.

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@Adoption/facebook.com

The process wasn’t easy but the Aldermans’ perseverance paid off. Every delay, setback, and challenge brought them closer to their goal of creating a forever family. Today, their bond is unbreakable, and their love is a testament to the power of hope and resilience during difficult times.

From Thailand with Love

In February 1991, an American family adopted a boy from Thailand and brought him to the United States. Later, they learned that the boy's brother was being raised in the same orphanage. So, they did not hesitate to adopt him as well. 

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@kenistod/reddit.com

In 2006, the family decided to visit Thailand to show the boys their homeland. During the trip, they visited their old orphanage. The children's former teacher recognized their Thai names and reunited with them. The children talked a lot about their new family and said they were very happy together.

The Happiness of Being Your Parents

A couple from Kentucky, Brittany, and Chris Tyler, adopted a baby boy named Samuel. The newborn was left at a fire station in a shoebox by the state's infant safety law. The biological mother left a note saying that she could not take care of him but loved him. Brittany, the foster mother, saw the news and wanted to adopt him. 

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@A baby was found in a shoebox with a note/today.com

So, she and her husband contacted the child welfare authorities and took the child into care. A year later, they were able to officially adopt the boy. Now the family has three children, including two sons, Judah and Calvin. The Tylers are grateful for the opportunity to be Samuel's parents.

Six Kids, One Loving Family

Over the past six years, Gabrielle and Shannon Fessenden have adopted six children: Jordan, 15, Jay, 10, Myah, 9, Jericho, 5, Briella, 4, and Mason, 2. These siblings joined the Fessendens' biological children, Scott, 11, and Giana, 8, creating a bustling household full of love and energy. Gabrielle describes their home as "always lively" with "plenty of love and chaos," and their family’s hashtag is #theresneveradullmoment.

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@adoptedbythestars/tumblr.com

The Fessendens had always hoped to adopt, and a few years ago, they started exploring the Michigan Adoption Resource Exchange. It was there that they came across the photos of Jordan, Jay, and Myah, three siblings who were at risk of being separated unless they found a family. Gabrielle showed the photos to Shannon, who immediately agreed to bring them into their family. The siblings moved in on November 15, 2012, and were adopted one year later.

An Example That Made 77 Children Happy

In the small, rural town of Possum Trot, Texas, 77 children were adopted by 23 families, inspired by one couple’s compassion. Donna Martin, struggling with the loss of her mother, found solace in her faith and felt led to adopt a young brother and sister.

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@Stephen-Humphries/csmonitor.com

Despite their modest means and existing family, she and her husband, Bishop W.C. Martin, opened their hearts to these children. The journey wasn’t easy, with one child even attempting to run away but the Martins' love and persistence paid off. Their actions inspired others in their church to follow suit, and soon, 23 families in Possum Trot adopted children in need.

Finding Marisol

Heather and Edwin always knew they wanted to adopt, and when they met Marisol, they were certain she was meant to be a part of their family. The adoption journey was not without its challenges but Marisol was referred to Wendy's Wonderful Kids, an organization that supports children in foster care.

12.jpg?format=webp@DaveThomasFoundationforAdoption/facebook.com

Through this program, the family had the help of Scott, Marisol's recruiter, who guided them through the adoption process. With Scott's support, Heather and Edwin were able to navigate the obstacles and, eventually, welcome Marisol into their permanent family.

The Long Way Home

Michael, Liam, and Nathan spent six long years in foster care after enduring abuse and neglect. They often went to bed hungry and missed school, and the trauma of being removed from their family made the experience even harder. Michael feared he and his brothers would never be together again. 

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@dtfa/instagram.com

Fortunately, through the support of the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption—Canada and their Wendy’s Wonderful Kids recruiter, Cynthia, the boys were adopted by Delon and Melisa. Delon and Melisa provided the love and security the brothers craved, and together, the family has experienced many special firsts—attending birthday parties, playing sports, and simply enjoying the comfort of a family.

A New Beginning for Sia and Her Sons

Sia always dreamed of becoming a mother but after years of infertility and a painful divorce, she took time to heal. Her perspective shifted when she watched a documentary about foster care and felt a deep connection with a 16-year-old boy. He met her with his friend, Che. And she adopted both boys. 

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@thegreatestalivesiafurler/facebook.com

Sia promised them a safe, loving home, focusing on helping them heal from their past trauma. Together, they learned how to live with honesty and build trust. She’s now considering adopting more children, realizing that this was the way motherhood was meant for her.

The Best Neighbors

17-month-old Elijah was adopted by Jay and George Houston in southern Georgia. His three older brothers, Michael, Jess, and Camden, had already lived in another family of Jay’s friend, Julie Washington. But their house was near to the new parents of Elijah. 

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@Boy Adopted by Family in Same Neighborhood as His Biological Siblings/abcnews.go.com

The Houstons, who already had four adopted children and two biological children, were eager to welcome Elijah into their family. Jay, who was adopted as a child, always knew she wanted to adopt. When she saw a video of Elijah smiling and laughing, she knew he would fit in perfectly. Though Elijah and his brothers live in separate homes, they are close, growing up just minutes apart.

With Open Heart

After fleeing an abusive home at age 10, Peter Mutabazi survived the streets of Kampala, Uganda, for five years before a stranger helped him enroll in school. Eventually, he moved to the US, where he became a successful advocate for children. In 2017, after a social worker called about an 11-year-old boy named Anthony, Mutabazi decided to open his heart and home.  

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@As a boy he lived on the streets for years. Now he’s opened his home to kids as a single foster dad/edition.cnn.com

Anthony, abandoned by his adoptive parents, was immediately drawn to Mutabazi, calling him "dad." Since then, Mutabazi has adopted three children, including Anthony, Isabella, and Luke. As a single foster dad, he challenges societal norms, raising his children—who are of different races—with love and care.

Couple Adopts Sick Children After Difficult Pregnancies

A couple started their family with two children after facing difficult pregnancies marked by gestational diabetes and preeclampsia. Advised against further pregnancies, they felt a deep calling to foster and later adopt children in need. They eventually adopted three. 

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@How Our Family Came to the Adoption Decision/adoption.com

First came Emma, a baby born with drug exposure, whose adoption was a leap of faith. Next, Memphis, a medically fragile child on a feeding tube, joined their family after her birth mother entrusted them with her care. Finally, Clayton was adopted through direct placement, a humbling and transformative experience.

There are No Other People's Children

What began as a hope for one or two children has grown into an extraordinary story of love and grace. This family already had 4 children of their own but decided to go beyond that and provide a home for other people's children.

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@thebigbassfamilyadventure/instagram.com

So, for a period of time, the couple adopted 5 children from an orphanage who quickly became friends with their biological children. They went through a long adoption process but did not give up. Despite all this, this family is now rejoicing in the miracles that brought them together.

Adopting Makes Life Better

Katie Page always dreamed of adopting as a little girl but never imagined her journey would unfold the way it did. After becoming a foster mom, she had the chance to adopt three siblings, a journey that deeply changed her life. 

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@Joelle Goldstein/people.com

Katie’s path to adoption was filled with unexpected twists but she couldn’t imagine her family any other way. Her love and commitment to these children grew as she learned their unique stories and recognized the deep bond they shared as siblings.

Waiting for Giovanni

Ann Marie and Darlene, a loving couple from Brooklyn, dreamed of building a family through adoption after being together for over 15 years. Supported by friends and family, they chose Adoptions From The Heart (AFTH) as the best fit for their journey. Despite the challenges, including a long 22-month wait and the ups and downs of the process, they stayed hopeful.

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@Ann Marie, Darlene, and Giovanni’s Adoption Story of Hope/adoption.com

After months of updating their profile and learning from adoption courses, they received a call about a complicated situation. Without hesitation, they knew this was their moment. They were chosen, and soon, they were holding their newborn son, Giovanni, just hours after his birth.

Building Relationships in the Family

A family with a biological daughter began the adoption process when their daughter was just one year old. They introduced the idea of becoming a big sister early on, using age-appropriate books and open conversations. However, it took time and effort to build a strong relationship.

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@Adoption After Having a Biological Child/theelephantmum.com

The son sometimes struggled with expressing emotions, leading to challenging moments. While the mother loves both children deeply, the nature of their love differs. The bond with her biological daughter was instant, whereas the connection with her adopted son developed gradually.

The Couple Who Didn't Give Up

James and Louise, both with heart conditions, faced rejection from their local adoption agency due to health concerns. Undeterred, they reached out to One Adoption in 2018 and, after some setbacks, began the process in 2019. 

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@James and Louise talk about their journey to adopt siblings/oneadoption.co.uk

In 2020, they were matched with two siblings, Christopher and Alice, who had been in foster care for years. James and Louise emphasized that adopting with health issues is possible with determination and a strong support system. Now a family, they cherish the moment when Christopher first called James "Dad."

Love Creates the Miracles

Christina and her husband quickly adopted Rosie, a 4-year-old girl with complex medical needs. Rosie couldn't walk and talk but the family remained determined to provide her with love and support. With professional help, Rosie made significant progress, learning to walk and improve her speech.

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@Rosie/adoptionuk.org

However, behavioral issues persisted, leading to a challenging period for the family. It turned out that the girl had attachment disorder and also needed the help of a psychologist. After the necessary therapy sessions, Rosie grew stronger and became calmer.

Nothing is Impossible

Phil and Chris, a couple from Wirral, Merseyside, adopted three brothers: Nathaniel, Charlie, and Oliver. The boys, who initially had significant needs, have made incredible progress. They now share a strong bond and enjoy simple pleasures like walking to school together.

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@Charlotte Hadfield/mirror.co.uk

The couple began their adoption journey in 2011 and officially started the process in 2013. They want to encourage others to consider adopting children who may have had a difficult start. They emphasize that adoption is open to people from diverse backgrounds, including single individuals and renters.

Faith of Foster Parents Saved a Girl

Destiny Joy Twohill was Born in China on November 1, 1998. She was abandoned at an orphanage and left for dead due to severe health issues. However, the orphanage director noticed her and intervened, saving her life. In the U.S., Destiny's adoptive parents, initially seeking twins, were instead sent her photo.  

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@Destiny Twohill/lifesong.org

After much emotional conflict, her future father had a dream of a girl named "Destiny," leading them to adopt her. Raised in a loving family, the girl grew up with both biological and adopted siblings. She graduated with honors in Biology and Spanish literature and now aspires to become a Physician Assistant.

Failure is no Reason to Stop

When Paola met Johnny, they both felt called to adopt domestically. Despite facing several failed setbacks and financial struggles, finally, they adopted three boys: Josiah in 2015, Judah in 2017, and Micah in 2019.

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@Adoption Stories: We Were Made for This/katelynsfund.org

They now share holidays, milestones, and everyday moments, creating a network of love and support. They do not rule out the possibility of adopting another child in the future.

Adoption Story Beyond Color

A couple's dream of expanding their family took an unexpected turn when they embraced the journey of adoption. Despite facing initial infertility struggles, they found joy in fostering and eventually adopted two biracial children. Their most recent adoption, of a white baby boy named Princeton, sparked significant challenges.

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@Why Adopting Interracially Is One of the Best Decisions I’ve Made/lifesong.org

The couple faced racism, judgment, and even accusations of kidnapping their own child. However, their unwavering love for Princeton remained steadfast. Through their experiences, they've learned the importance of education and breaking down racial barriers.

How a Woman Dared to Raise a Child Alone

Being a single mom is not easy. But after much hesitation, this woman made the courageous decision to adopt. After her decision was approved, she attended an event for older children where she met Cora, a six-year-old girl who immediately felt like a good fit.

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@Jane shares her story about adopting an older child as a single mum/oneadoption.co.uk

With the support of Cora's wonderful foster parents, they worked to prepare her for the transition. It took a long time to get in touch with the girl but eventually, their relationship became warm and the girl was officially adopted.

Adoption by Experience

Nathan was adopted as a child and was very happy in his foster family. So, when he married Jenny, the couple decided to adopt a child from Ghana. They met a boy named Isaiah there and were able to arrange for his adoption. The reunion was a touching moment that marked the beginning of a new chapter for their family.

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@Broken & Beautiful: An Adoption Story/lifesong.org

However, the couple recognizes that adoption continues to be a challenging process, including the emotional impact on both the child and the adoptive parents. They emphasize the importance of post-adoption support to help families overcome the challenges of healing and growth.

A British Family Adopted Nine Children with Down Syndrome

The Patterson family is an inspiration, having welcomed nine children with Down syndrome into their loving home.  Their story began with the adoption of David and Timothy by Roger and Leigh Patterson. They were focusing on children with Down syndrome. 

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@British Family Adopted 9 Children with Down Syndrome/adoption.com

They have since adopted James, Alice, Molly, and Riley. Additionally, Roger's daughter, Jenny, has adopted Isabel, George, and Tomas. The Patterson family's dedication to providing loving homes for children with Down syndrome is a testament to their compassion and unwavering belief in the potential of every child.

Happiness Doesn't Walk Alone

After years of infertility and a devastating miscarriage, the decision to adopt brought both hope and uncertainty. Initially, the couple prepared for the adoption of one child, never imagining they’d soon welcome two baby girls born just 16 days apart. The story began with Sarah’s birth mother, Jamie, a courageous 16-year-old who chose them for her baby. Their bond was instant, and Sarah joined the family on August 13, 2015.

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@Our adoption story/garrettross.com

Shortly after, another opportunity arose when Kim, a mother in Florida, reached out about her baby girl, Sammie. Despite logistical challenges and skepticism from adoption agencies, the couple moved forward, convinced this was meant to be. On August 29, Sammie was born, completing their family in the most extraordinary way.

Two More Hearts in the Tittel Family

Justin and Erica Tittel already had three daughters when they decided to adopt at least one more child. One day, Erica's best friend told the couple about four orphaned children in need of a family. They immediately reached out to an adoption agency but they were declined because they did not have a foster care license.

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@A New Kind of Family: The Tittels’ Adoption Story/coyotehill.org

Fortunately, they found the Christian organization offered the necessary courses to become foster parents. In March 2021, Truly-Christina and Vaeda-Amberlyn, two of the siblings, joined the Tittel family. After a year of visits, the adoption was finalized on July 5, 2022. The other two siblings were adopted by their long-term foster family, and the connection between the two families became a source of joy and support.

Finding Hope Through Adoption After Losing a Child

Harriet and Dan lost two of their biological children to a genetic disease. However, they did not give up and turned to adoption. They had 18 individual meetings, and the experience was positive and supportive. The couple decided not to look for children on their own, entrusting a social worker to submit the questionnaires.

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@Adopting after child loss - Harriet and Dan's story/oneadoption.co.uk

When they learned about the two little girls, they felt an instant connection with them. Later, the couple was able to adopt these children. Now Harriet and Dan consider adoption to be the best decision they have ever made.

Complex Adoption Process

First, Sean and Brittany took care of a boy named Arvin, whom they adopted from India. However, it was not an easy journey. They were promised a quick turnaround in the paperwork but the process began to drag on for another month. When it seemed that all hope was lost, a higher official intervened, and the next day they received a court decision.

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@Oksana Murphy/lifesong.org

Brittany calls this turnaround in their case “the most amazing day of my life.” So, they took the boy into their family and began to take care of his health and education. Now the child is already going to school and has many friends.

From Hope to Home

Megan and Angie's way to parenthood was not straightforward. They explored various options, ultimately choosing adoption as the path to building their family. Despite initial reservations, Angie now couldn't imagine loving Lucy any more than she does. Their adoption process was well-supported, and they received guidance from a dedicated social worker.

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@Megan and Angie's story/oneadoption.co.uk

While Lucy's adoption profile presented challenges, the couple remained determined and focused on providing a loving home. They worked closely with Lucy's foster carer to ensure a smooth transition, and they continue to maintain a positive relationship. Megan and Angie emphasize the importance of support networks and open communication about Lucy's adoption story.

Becoming a Parent

Rowan always dreamed of becoming a parent, and after separating from a long-term partner, he decided it was the right time to start his adoption way. Moving back to Nottinghamshire to be closer to family, he felt supported and ready to make a difference in a child's life. After connecting with Barnardo’s, he knew adoption was the path for him.

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@Matthew's story/barnardos.org.uk

The first time he met his son, a five-year-old boy, was an unforgettable moment. They met at a soft play center, where his son handed him his shoes and immediately ran off to play. Rowan recalls the emotional impact of meeting him in person after so much anticipation. Now living together, Rowan’s son is settling in well, proud of his new room.

Embracing Challenges, Building a Family

Jackie and David, inspired by a photograph of a young boy in a Ukrainian orphanage, felt a strong calling to adopt. They ended up adopting two boys, Miles and Jonah, both of whom had significant medical and developmental needs. 

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@Bringing Home the Boy in the Pink Shirt/lifesong.org

However, the couple subsequently faced numerous challenges, including financial hardship and unaffordable medical care. However, they did not give up. Through their experiences, Jackie and David emphasize the importance of seeing the value and potential of every child, regardless of their circumstances.

The Child Quickly Accepted the New Mom

Nicola always dreamed of having a family but hadn’t found the right partner to share parenthood. After extensive research, she decided to pursue adoption through the Early Permanence Placement (EPP) scheme, a path that allows children to be fostered with the intent to adopt. Her son, Oliver, came to live with her at just one day old.

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@Nicola's story/oneadoption.co.uk

Nicola cared for Oliver as a foster carer until the courts confirmed adoption as his permanent plan. Their early bond was immediate—Oliver seemed to recognize her as his mother from the start, responding to her voice and touch. Now approaching his second birthday, Oliver is thriving, and Nicola is cherishing every moment of motherhood.

Single but Not Alone

Ben, a single, gay man from Yorkshire, has adopted six children with complex needs. Growing up in rural Wales, he always knew he wanted to be a father but didn't pursue relationships. He had experience working with children and adults with complex needs, which led him to adopt children with additional needs.

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@Ben/adoptionuk.org

At his adoption panel, the decision was a 50/50 split but the independent decision-maker approved him. Ben’s first adoption was of Jack, a quirky boy with autism. Over time, Ben has adopted Ruby, who has multiple disabilities, Lilly, a profoundly deaf girl, Joseph, a baby with Down's Syndrome, and Louis, who has cerebral palsy and is blind.

An Important Step That Changed the Lives of Four People

Metta and Sue were raising Sofia, the husband’s daughter from his first marriage, together. The husband admired how Sue cared for the girl and decided she was worthy of being a mother. The couple discussed it and decided to expand their family by adopting a child from a shelter.

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@Matt and Sue: Our Adoptive Parent Story/adoption.com

After thorough research, they chose the organization “Adoptions From The Heart” (AFTH). Their lives changed after one phone call: they were matched with a newborn girl named Lily. Without hesitation, they traveled to Chesapeake, Virginia, to meet her. The meeting went well, and soon after, the little girl officially became their daughter.

The Path that Inspires

Elisia Manuel and her husband, Tecumseh, adopted three children in two years. Each child was less than one year old when they joined the family. Unable to conceive naturally, the couple turned to foster care. Elisia’s sister-in-law, who had aged out of foster care, inspired her to explore this path.

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@Three Precious Miracles/dcs.az.gov

Volunteering at a group home in 2012 strengthened Elisia’s resolve to help children. In 2013, she received a life-changing call about a seven-day-old baby boy needing a home. Four months later, another call brought them a baby girl, born just days apart from their son. They welcomed another baby boy—her son’s biological brother- a year later.

Adoption Enriches Family Ties

This family started with three biological children and later welcomed three more through adoption. In 2008, Sawyer was adopted as an infant, followed by his biological brother, Shawn, in 2009.

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@jennifer.m.forsyth/facebook.com

In 2012, Katelyn joined the family after being adopted from Nunavut. Present at the birth of each adopted child, their parent formed lasting relationships with their birth families, ensuring these connections remain strong and positive.

Couple Finally Decides to Become Parents

John and his wife had been on the fence about adopting for a long time. But after talking to friends and consulting, they finally decided. They spent some time waiting at the adoption center. And a miracle did happen.

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@Motherhood: An Adoptive Mother’s Story/newlifeadoptionsmn.org

In May 2014, their first daughter was born, and her adoption was finalized in November of the same year. Their second daughter was born in July 2019. Before the adoption, the couple met the birth mother, Kendra. Now, the couple is happy parents of two beautiful daughters.

Dimon Sanders’ Journey to Family

Dimon Sanders experienced severe abuse as a child and entered the foster care system at age 8. Between ages 8 and 13, she faced 13 placements and struggled with hope after failed adoption opportunities. At 13, she met Apache and Joshua Sanders, who were determined to give her a permanent home.

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@Shine Bright Like a Dimon: How Adoption Made a Difference/dcs.az.gov

Though adopting a teenager wasn’t their initial plan, the Sanders family embraced Dimon, building trust over a year. Their support allowed Dimon to pursue her passion for dance. In 2017, she was crowned Miss Arizona’s Outstanding Teen, becoming the first African American to win. Now she is excelling in school and planning for college.

A Couple Waited a Long Time for Their Children

In October 2013, the family received a call from Tysa, the coordinator of the birth mother program. After creating a family profile, the birth mother got in touch with the news that twin boys were on the way. 

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@Lauren & Paul's Adoption Story/lifelongadoptions.com

The months leading up to the twins' birth were challenging. The birth family faced homelessness and employment issues, but with support they found stability. When the twins were born prematurely in April 2014, they were greeted with love and taken home soon after.

Their Family Became Intercultural

Kerry and Nathan struggled with infertility for a long time. However, they did not give up and eventually managed to have a son. But the couple didn't stop there. Soon after, they adopted Elsa, a 3-year-old girl from Ethiopia. Their joy was overwhelming, as they were so excited about becoming parents.

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@South Africa Adoption Story: Kerri and Nathan/spence-chapin.org

So, they moved on. They welcomed Asher, a 2.5-year-old boy from South Africa, and then another girl. Adoption has brought not only boundless love but also deeper connections to Ethiopian and South African cultures, enriching their lives with traditions, music, and food.

There are no Many Children

In 2015, Chinishe Ray became a foster parent through Youth Villages, and four years later, she adopted two boys, Kaleb and Kobe, on National Adoption Day, November 23, 2019. But her story didn’t stop there.  On May 3, 2022, National Foster Care Day, Ray adopted 3-year-old twin boys, Jace and Jaxon, after fostering them for nearly 1,200 days.

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@Following the Plan/youthvillages.org

In Tennessee, over 8,000 children are in foster care, with many needing loving homes. Ray emphasizes that becoming a foster or adoptive parent doesn’t require much except an open heart and the willingness to love.

A Life-Changing Encounter

Three years ago, Angela and Fran adopted siblings Tim and Ivy, a decision that completely transformed their lives. After a quick, 10-month adoption process, they knew instantly that Tim and Ivy were meant to be their children. Their first meeting with the kids, at a local park, was emotional but reassuring, with the foster carer welcoming them warmly.

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@Adopting siblings has changed our lives, in the best possible way! Angela and Fran's story/oneadoption.co.uk

Tim and Ivy, though close in age, share a special sibling bond that Angela and Fran believe helped them adjust to their new home. Despite the challenges of trauma, the couple finds immense joy in supporting their children through their growth.

A Large Sibling Group

After 18 years of marriage, Elizabeth and Kyle felt called to adopt a large sibling group. Despite some initial hesitation from Kyle, they welcomed five sisters into their home: Anahi, Bertha, Melinda, Marisela, and Maria.

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@Five Extraordinary Little Humans/dcs.az.gov

Each girl brought her unique personality and strengths, from Anahi’s responsibility and talents to Maria’s sharp wit and love of learning. As parents, Eli and Kyle emphasize treating their daughters as capable individuals, teaching them self-sufficiency, responsibility, and conflict resolution.

Seeing Only the Best

Jason and Adrianne Stewart’s adoption of Maria from the Philippines has touched hearts across the country. Maria, born with congenital limb difference, was adopted at the age of 3, unable to hold her head up at the time. Over the past year and a half, she has made incredible strides, learning to eat by herself, draw, and even attend preschool.

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The Stewarts, who had previously adopted their son Joshua from the Philippines, never planned to adopt a child with special needs. However, when they saw Maria's picture, they knew she was meant to be part of their family.  

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