When Kristy began fostering, her own biological children were just about out of the house and her goal was simply to provide stability for other children on a temporary basis. She never imagined she would adopt, but she was a fearless advocate for children and for their families.
Over the past six years Kristy helped several children reunite with their parents.
Sofia was 2 ½ weeks old when she first came into Kristy’s home. Her parents had both dealt with drug addiction. Sofia’s mother refused all services to help break her addictions, and Sofia’s father was incarcerated. As Sofia’s case progressed, it was apparent Sofia would need to be adopted. For 15 months Kristy wanted Sofia to be adopted by a loving family, but the case was not proceeding in that direction. One day Kristy realized that Sofia was already a part of her family and community. After considering the idea for a few months, she decided that it was time to let DCS know she was open to adoption.
There were several things holding Kristy back. Sofia’s father had done his best to stay involved in her life and Kristy had no intention of breaking that connection. She was also a single mother, fighting to save her small business and unsure if she had the flexibility and means to raise another child on her own. It was a series of small miracles that changed all of that.
The first came when Kristy told her caseworker she would be open to adopting Sofia. She felt guilty over not being able to discuss that idea with Sofia’s father first. When he heard the news, much to her surprise, he agreed that this was in Sofia’s best interest!
The same day Sofia’s dad relinquished his rights in court, Kristy got a call from an old co-worker telling her about a job opening at her old company. She would be able to make more money and also work from home. Kristy was unsure if she would get the position but she applied anyways—and she got the job!
“It was like everything fell into place,” Kristy said.
On National Adoption Day Kristy was surrounded by family as the judge made her adoption of Sofia official.
“The last couple years I have done a lot of reflecting because my son is in his late 20’s and my daughter is about to graduate high school. I came to the realization that raising kids may or may not be the best years of their lives – but it is the best years of parent’s lives,” Kristy said. “When I decided to adopt Sofia, I promised myself that everything I disliked about raising my kids – packing lunch, homework, being a chauffeur, etc. I will make myself enjoy while raising Sofia. It is a blessing to get to parent again, and I want to soak up every minute of my third time around… Being a foster parent is the hardest but most rewarding thing you will ever do.”
If you have ever considered opening your heart and home to a child, National Adoption Month is a great time to explore the possibilities. Learn more about adoption and foster care by clicking here.
