Now that we are 18+ months out from Matthew's adoption, there are moments when I find myself immersed in our daily routine and I forget about the plight of the orphans who are still waiting for families. But every now and then, God reminds me that even if we aren't adding to our family, I can still advocate for other children who remain in orphanages and institutions - existing, but not knowing the love of parents, grandparents, siblings, friends. It sobers me to think that this could have been one of my kiddos.
And so I would like to share a little bit about three children who wait for their forever families. I am not at liberty to share their pictures, but they are all absolutely beautiful children, created in the image of our Heavenly Father!
Simon recently turned 5 and will be transferred to an institution soon. He has spastic paraparesis of the legs and hypothyroidism which he is on medication for. Simon has mild strabismus (crossed eyes) and wears glasses for this problem. He is not considered to have cognitive delays except as expected due to the orphanage delays. Simon is verbal and very communicative. He enjoys playing with the other children and being outside. He is able to walk with support. We were able to meet Simon during Matthew's adoption and he is a precious boy - always happy and caring. With the proper physical and occupational therapy, he is expected to make great progress!
Olhen is a little girl who is 2 years old. She was born into a family who wanted her, but at birth her heart stopped beating. Several minutes later, she spontaneously revived. Doctors felt that Ohlen had an intrauterine infection of the brains Because of this, her parents were encouraged to leave her at the hospital (can you imagine???) Ohlen is a miracle child! She is now walking holding the hand of her caregiver. She imitates all the actions of the caregivers and is beginning to verbalize. Ohlen is a very intelligent, happy girl. Doctors indicate that if she continues this type of progress, within 12-18 months she will no longer be considered to have any type of special needs.
Nikita is two year old little boy with hydrocephalus. He is shunt dependent. Nikita is considered on track developmentally - just as if he was a "home child (meaning living with his family).
Nikita walks, follows simple commands, and is learning to speak. He enjoys playing with toys as well as interacting with the other children at the orphanage. He is felt to be extremely intelligent and kind-hearted. What Nikita needs more than anything is the love of a family and access to good medical care.
You may have many good excuses reasons not to consider adoption. Too old, too young, not enough money, not enough time, not enough space... the list goes on and on. But think about it. Isn't having a parent who is ______ (fill in the blank for whatever your reason might be) better than having no parent at all. God tells us that "Once our eyes are opened we cannot pretend we do not know what to do. God, who weighs our hearts and keeps our souls knows we know and holds us responsible to act." Proverbs 24:12
Please consider acting. If you are interested in information about any of these children, please contact me at
findingbabyhansen@gmail.com
