S was born with a cleft lip and palate and abandoned as a tiny infant in 2014. Her cleft repair surgeries were done when she was small, long before we met her. Five years ago, when we began operating our family model of care in her province, her orphanage asked if she could join our project.
When S first arrived, she had many behavior issues. She did not know how to regulate her emotions, and would frequently throw tantrums and try to hurt herself when she was upset. Her foster parents worked hard to help her understand her feelings and her reactions.
Gradually, her outlook changed, her interactions with her parents and siblings improved, and her outbursts lessened. Right before our eyes, we began to see her blossom.
Knowing her now, it’s hard to believe she is the same girl who joined us 5 years ago. S seems content and very much at peace.
She is very thoughtful and helpful toward others in her family. She studies very hard at school; both her parents and teachers are continually impressed by her hard work and independent spirit. She is truly a joy to be around!
And the best part? A local family has expressed interest in adopting her and they are working to fulfill the requirements to bring her home. We recognize that although adoption is exciting, it’s also a huge transition with the potential to arouse many strong feelings and emotions. We are working with S to give her the tools and resources she needs to navigate this difficult, life changing event.
Because of your support, we are able to provide loving, nurturing family-based care to children like S, building a solid foundation for the future, whatever that may be!