Adoption means the world to children left adrift in the foster care system. An Arkansan couple’s fight to adopt their foster creates a special place in people’s hearts.For some, Christmas is a matter of picking the right outfit or planning out their Holiday meal. However, for a couple from Hot Springs, Arkansas, Christmas this year was about giving seven children a forever family.
Michael and Terri Hawthorne got the news they had been waiting for so long just before the Holidays.The Hawthornes have been foster parents for several years. They had taken care of many children. From the beginning of their foster care journey, they didn’t know if they would adopt. However, back in April, they did adopt two children, a pair of siblings named Haizlee and Korgen.
This December the courts granted Michael and Terri’s wish to adopt seven more. That brings their child count up to 13. Despite having this large family, there are no regrets. They enjoy having the children around the house, making it a home.
Terri finds joy in the daily giggles and smiles of all her children. Their happiness is what makes it all worthwhile.
The story behind the seven siblings is heartbreaking. All seven children had to share a single bed, which left most camped out on the floor. They also had trouble getting food regularly. Neighbors would sneak food to them. The kids lacked basic equipment like a can opener which often left them without food.
After joining the Hawthorne family, the kids have no such worries. Everyone has their own bed and there are regular meals available throughout the day. They don’t worry about sharing a bed or going hungry. They have a family now and don’t need to spend time in the foster care system anymore.
Adopting any child requires commitment and courage. Doing the same for seven children is demanding and challenging. However, for the Hawthornes, each child is a blessing. They are sharing their story with the hope that other families will adopt children. It’s not an easy walk, but definitely fulfilling.
It’s a story worth seeing.
Would you consider doing what Michael and Terri did? Let us know your thoughts. Pass this video along to others who might be interested.