We have been married for 15 years and have 4 beautiful children ranging in age from 4-12 years old. Our third child, Andrew, was born with Down syndrome six years ago. When we learned that Andrew was going to be born with Down syndrome we did not initially understand what a gift he would be to us. We thought that a joyful future was lost because of his disability. But we were wrong and God has shown us through Andrew that His power is perfected in our weakness. Andrew has brought much joy to our family and those who know him well. After Andrew was born, our dear friends learned about the plight of children with Down syndrome around the world through an adoption ministry helping to find homes for abandoned children with disabilities called Reece's Rainbow. They soon decided to go on a mission to bring home their own bundle of joy from Eastern Europe.
Over time, a desire grew in our family to be a father to the fatherless and rescue another little boy with Down syndrome who has been abandoned by his family and the world around him. We rejoice at the great privilege of redeeming a child who is afflicted and rejected because of his disability. "O Lord, you hear the desires of the afflicted you will strengthen their hearts, You will incline your ear, to do justice to the fatherless and the oppressed" (Psalm 10: 17-19). We have learned that we are not so different from individuals with severe disabilities; We all need mercy, forgiveness and rest for our weary souls that only God can provide.
There are some who question the wisdom of burdening a family with a disabled child who has substantial needs. "What about your other children and the burden upon them" we are asked. This is a reasonable question. However, our children would reply "what burden?" along with the apostle John who said "for this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments, and his commandments are not burdensome" (1John 5:3). We have found that the words of Jesus are true: "It is more blessed to give then to receive" (Acts 20: 35). We understand that this journey will not be easy and there will be many challenges and frustrations along the way. But we have also learned that it is in these hardships that God's grace will be sufficient for us as "His power is perfected in our weakness" (2 Cor 12:9).
We look forward to bringing this little boy home where he can be raised in a family that will give him the love and care that every child deserves. We hope to teach him to surf like the rest of his siblings! But, we cannot do it alone. Please see the "How you can help page" on the right of your screen.
Here is a video set to music of our family's journey to adoption:
Music by Chis August, "Upside of Down"
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