Today, this family of five includes three children, ages 7, 9, and 10. Two of the children joined the family through adoption from foster care with the support of AASK. What began as a plan to pursue infant adoption eventually unfolded into a much broader and more meaningful journey.
A Path That Changed Direction
The original plan was infant adoption through Catholic Charities ND. Foster care was meant to be temporary to provide short-term care for children while waiting to be matched with a newborn. The moment a 9-month-old was placed in their arms, everything shifted. Adoption became the right path for two children who are now permanent members of the family.
Growth Beyond Expectations
When their second adopted child was initially placed with them, there were significant developmental gaps. Speech delays made communication for the child frustrating, often leading to meltdowns because thoughts and needs couldn’t be understood. Medical concerns had gone untreated, and important services had not yet been put in place. They had a strong desire to please others. This child, being older at placement, arrived more guarded.
With speech therapy, medical care, educational support, advocacy, and most importantly time and patience, a transformation unfolded. Today, communication is strong, confidence shines, and academic progress has been remarkable. The transformation reflects resilience, determination, and the power of feeling safe and loved.
Defining Success
Success in this adoption story is not measured by perfection. It’s defined as happy, healthy, well-adjusted children who know they are loved unconditionally.
Adoption has strengthened the entire family. Empathy has deepened. Understanding of trauma and generational patterns has expanded. Exposure to diverse cultures and experiences through foster care broadened perspectives. The family unit itself stands as the greatest success; strong, connected, and rooted in love.
A particularly meaningful moment came in tribal court, when they were advocating for permanency. A powerful reminder that family means standing firm, no matter what.
The Power of Support
Community made a difference. Other foster and adoptive parents provided guidance, reassurance, and practical advice. Post-adoption services through the ND Post Adopt Network continue to offer connection and celebration, bringing adoptive families together and reminding everyone they are not alone.
Advice for Families Considering Adoption
- Advocate for yourself and your child.
- This journey may not be all sunshine and rainbows.
- Be patient. Permanency takes time.
- Know that the hard moments are worth it.
One image that remains especially meaningful is the idea of two trees growing side by side, roots intertwining underground. Adoption is not about replacing roots, it’s about growing new ones together.
A Story Still Unfolding
Today, the focus is simple: raising confident, expressive, compassionate young people. Adoption is celebrated openly in this home. It is spoken about with pride and honesty. The message is clear; adoption is normal, healthy, and something to honor.
Adoption didn’t just make this family bigger. It expanded their hearts and gave their life a deeper purpose. The journey included delays, paperwork, and long periods of waiting, especially navigating tribal court and multiple case transitions. It required perseverance, advocacy, and patience. The outcome is clear every day in laughter around the table, in growing confidence, and in the unshakable bond of belonging.
That is success.