My journey began when I realized I wanted to have children but also understood that biologically having kids might not be a possibility for me. So initially, I started looking into the process of adoption, domestic infrant adoption to be specific. The more I researched and spoke with people, the more I learned about the foster care system and the kids in need.
I attended an informational session hosted by my local Foster Care agency; they really pushed the idea of fostering to adopt, which was something I hadn't considered at all - the notion of fostering a child long-term and providing them a permanent home. After much thought, I decided to go for it and took the necessary classes required to become a licensed foster parent. The process was longer than I anticipated, with many hurdles (paperwork, interviews, and home inspections), but I eventually got there.
I've now been a foster mom for almost three years, and it's been an incredible experience. I've had four placements during this time - each experience has broken my heart in ways I never imagined but also healed and filled it back up again. Each of my fosters have returned to their biological families, which was hard, but I'm glad I could provide them a safe and loving space when they needed it most.
Right now, I'm in the midst of my fifth placement, and this little one has brought so much joy into my life. She's been with me for over a year, and we're working through the adoption process - hopefully, she'll be able to stay with me forever! It's a tricky path, full of uncertainty, but worth it.