How Much Do You Know About Cerebral Palsy? | Guest Blogger :: Jenny Pohl | Reece's Rainbow

So how much do you know about cerebral palsy (CP)? I knew nothing, until I was about 22 years old, and spent a year volunteering at a residential school for children with CP. Now, I'll admit that this is going back a few years – to 1985, in fact – but the children I worked with back then made a huge impression on me. Since then, I have worked with many many children with a wide variety of disabilities, but I must say that kids with cerebral palsy are the ones I am drawn to again and again.

Children with cerebral palsy are all in some way physically impaired, though this varies from child to child. Some may only have a slight limp, with their CP being hardly noticeable. Other may be unable to walk, stand, or sit independently, needing total care for their entire lives. Some children with CP may also have other conditions, such as learning impairments, seizures, and vision and/or hearing issues.

In a nutshell – every child with CP is different!!

There are currently about 80 older children with cerebral palsy listed with Reece's Rainbow as available for adoption. Every one of these children is now eligible for a $10,000 adoption grant! Depending on where they live, these children many or may not receive any kind of therapy or medical interventions to help them. Some orphanages do provide education and therapies, but sadly, most do not. Those children who are unable to walk are likely to be bedridden for their entire lives. Children who in the Western world would be in school, getting an education and living a normal life, are destined to spend their lives in an institution with no hope for the future, just because they were born with CP.

Below, I share the profiles of a few children with cerebral palsy. I chose these children because they were born in 2003, the same year my son was born. If you click on their name, you will be taken directly to their profile.

Lane's profile doesn't say much about him, other than that he has “cerebral palsy, tetraparetic form”. This basically means that all four of his limbs are affected by the CP. His photo shows him in his crib/bed - he seems to be pleading with his eyes, doesn't he?


Bianca has very mild CP, and her profile is pretty extensive. In a nutshell, she goes to school, can talk in complete sentences, and is independent in her daily living skills. Please click on her name to read more about this wonderful young lady!


Mitch is another child with a short profile. It states that he can walk, is "mentally healthy", and very very much wants to be adopted. Is he YOUR son?


Next, we have Anton. I cannot help but smile when I see his picture, but that smile is quickly followed by sorrow, when I realize what he is missing. He needs a family to get him out of that crib - can you see the potential in this young man? He looks amazing!


Flynn is a "Lost Boy". He lives in a very remote institute, and receives just basic care. He spends his days sitting doing nothing. Absolutely nothing. He deserves so much more than this, don't you think? Please see Flynn today - I have no doubt that he would make a wonderful son, and would learn to smile surrounded by a family.


Daniella. When you look at Daniella, do you see a child with cerebral palsy, or do you see a beautiful young lady, who needs a mommy to fix her hair and take her clothes shopping? Please see Daniella today!


Lastly, we have Mason. His profile states he has "profound mental delays" as well as cerebral palsy. The orphanage cannot keep him much longer. They will try to hold him till the end of this summer. If nobody commits to him, he will be transferred to a terrible institution forever, and it will be very hard to pull him out from there.

In other words - if he isn't adopted before transfer, chances are he will never be able to be adopted.


As stated above - these children were all born in 2003 - meaning they are 12 or 13 years old.

They all have cerebral palsy. Some are affected very mildly, others more severely.

They are just a handful of the children over the age of 10, listed on Reece's Rainbow, who have CP.

They are all eligible for a $10,000 adoption grant!!

I have seen many children with CP who have been adopted - children who were confined to their cribs in the orphanages - children who have thrived once home with a family. I truly have seen miracles unfold before me - once a child is given hope, and given love, they can defy all odds. Along with therapy, and medical help, these children can begin to live the lives they deserve. They can begin to LIVE.

While I realize that we cannot all adopt - we are ALL capable of shouting for these children.

If you are on Facebook, please share them.

If you have Twitter or Instagram - please share them.

If you write a blog - please share them!

If you can - donate to them!

Any donation to the children over 10 years old will go into a grant pool, which will benefit every single older child that is adopted.

The children with cerebral palsy are listed under the "Other Angels" categories - the older boys can be found HERE, and the older girls HERE.

At the top of each link, you will see a big pink DONATE button - that's where to click when you want to donate to the older children's fund. No donation is too small!

Again - if you can't adopt or donate - please share!!!

World Autism Day :: Interview with Colleen Swindoll - Thompson

The 2nd of April is World Autism Day and in honour of that, we have been so blessed to have been given an interview with Colleen Swindoll Thompson, the third of four children of Chuck and Cynthia Swindoll.

As many already know who Chuck Swindoll of Insight for Living is, I will direct anyone looking to learn more about him to the Insight for Living website. I would also encourage you to read Pastor Chuck's blog.

Colleen's insight on parenting a child with special needs can be found on the Insight for Living Special Needs Blog and I would encourage any parent or family member of a child with special needs to bookmark it and visit the blog often!

CLICK HERE for more ways to connect with Insight for Living. 

For ways to specifically follow the Special Needs Ministry of Insight for Living:

I am so pleased to introduce you to Colleen Thompson. Colleen’s love for Jesus Christ began as a child; she is Chuck and Cynthia Swindoll’s third of four children. Colleen is a graduate of Trinity University with a major degree in Communication and two minors, Education and Psychology. Colleen began her graduate work at Dallas Theological Seminary but her plans changed with the birth of her third child Jonathan, who is diagnosed with multiple disabilities. Currently, Jonathan’s diagnosis includes: autism, intellectual and developmental disabilities, global anxiety and post traumatic stress disorders, Tourette’s syndrome, ADHD, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Oppositional defiance disorder, separation anxiety, and social/self confusion from years of bullying experiences.

In 2007, Colleen accepted the position of Director of Special Needs/Disability support at Insight for Living. Currently, Insight offers a special needs topical page, blog page, additional resources and suggestions for supports and services, books and advocacy direction, and a face book page that has taken off. She is also involved in speaking and teaching which focuses on the truths of God’s word and it’s application to every day life. Friends, family, and those who hear Colleen’s messages say she is refreshingly honest, deeply sincere, graciously understanding, tenderly empathetic, and steadfast in her intimate relationship with Jesus Christ. Colleen and her husband Toban are a blended family; Colleen’s children, Ashley (18), Austin (17) and Jonathan (14) and Toban’s children Cody (21), and Riley (18) enjoy time together along with their three dogs: Desoto, Sherman, and Honey. Personally, Colleen enjoys reading, gardening, and just being with her family.

When I asked Colleen if she'd mind being interviewed for World Autism Day, she didn't hesitate to say yes! She is articulate and gracious and real. I am so thrilled for you to get to know her so without further ado...

RR: What was it like growing up with your dad being on the radio and pastoring such a big church?

Colleen Thompson: Dad was always the same at home or at church or anywhere. I’ve learned from other pastor’s kids how rare my growing up was….I was never told to be or do or act a certain way because “dad was a pastor”. In fact, I am deeply saddened when I see or hear of parents in ministry positions forcing their children to fit some mold. I am profoundly proud of how the Lord has used my folks; and very thankful they remain unimpressed by social status. Words like ‘big’, ‘famous’, ‘popular’ and other words people use to define themselves were never stated in my home. One of the best characteristics of Jonathan is the total lack of societies ‘success’ strata. My family desires to honor the Lord and follow His direction which is eternal; social media is temporal and candidly, unimpressive. (If I may be so honest.)

RR: How did you meet your husband?

Colleen Thompson: This is always a very funny deal. Following my divorce, I never planned to date or marry ever again. However, my children felt I needed a partner in life; thus chose to put my name on one of the dating web sites. I can’t believe I’m telling you this. I made a bet with my daughter that no one would respond to a 40 plus year old woman who was NEVER going to date or marry and had a special needs child. Well, I lost the bet. Toban patiently endured my ‘never, ever, ever, never-ever going to marry or date again’ words; was consistent, loved me into trusting him, and we shared experiences of his own children-one having childhood epilepsy and another being born with half a heart. We married April 4, 2009; our children continually laugh at our humor and love for each other. (They think we are so weird…which we relish).

RR: Can you tell me about your children?

Colleen Thompson: How long do you have? = ) They are incredibly different and I love being their mom. Ashley is my oldest-20 on November 1st. Austin is 18 in May, and Jon is 15 in July.

 Ashley is very strong willed which, as we have talked about, is a fantastic gift when aligned with Christ but a tremendous challenge when focused on self. She has the “Swindoll” gift of art, writing, and intellect; yet is very tenderhearted and loving without condition. Ashley has a way with animals and is studying to be an exotic veterinarian.

Austin, my second child, is very fun-loving and has a great sense of humor. He’s incredibly social, also gifted intellectually, and is most like my father…extremely intuitive and spiritually sensitive. Austin seems to understand others easily and remains very involved at the church. He has several leadership positions there, and also enjoys acting and serving. He just won 2nd place in a cancer support half marathon and plans to run for other charities as well.

Jonathan is…there is no way to describe Jon. He is tender hearted, incredibly determined and enduring, candid, without pretense, socially unimpressed, and also wounded by this world’s treatment and view of differences. Of the three children, I find Jonathan to be the most sensitive-spiritually aware in ways I cannot explain. My children has their own journey’s; one which includes deep, heart breaking pain; forgiveness, struggles with God’s sovereignty, challenges and worries siblings face with a special needs brother; and have cultivated a resiliency I highly respect. I believe wise counselors are needed when the heart’s in need of healing so we have all committed to the process which has included/includes therapist’s and spiritual guidance.

RR: How old was your son when he was diagnosed with autism?

Colleen Thompson: Jonathan was diagnosed with Autism and intellectual disability (previously called mental retardation) in December, 2000. Only 1 in 10,000 children were diagnosed with autism at the time; I knew nothing about the diagnosis nor did I know anyone else familiar with it. It was a very lonely, difficult time.

RR: When did you first notice that something might need investigating?

Colleen Thompson: When Jon was born, something wasn’t ‘typical’. He cried and cried and cried…he threw up everything, didn’t sleep more than an hour at a time, and was never settled. I thought Jon’s first two years caused his delay’s; in his first two years he had countless ear infections, three sets of ear tubes, asthma and allergies, digestive disorders, immune deficient, 5 RSV illnesses and many diagnosis of pneumonia. He had his tonsils and adenoids removed at age two which, we all thought would solve his delay’s. How does one learn to talk and walk when they feel horrible all the time and cannot hear???? It’s what I thought at the time. But, when he continued to be severely delayed (age 3 he was developmentally about 15 months along and weighed 18 pounds); others suggested we check into some neurological and terminal issues.

RR: How did you first learn his diagnosis and what was your reaction?

Colleen Thompson: Jon was evaluated by a pediatric psychologist at age three who diagnosed his autism and I.D. I remember many feelings…relief, confusion, loneliness, like the bottom of life as I thought it would be just disappeared. I hurt for Jon because his life would now always be hard and misunderstood; which has been part of God’s shaping my own faith to this day. I reacted to it like I do with anything I don’t understand in life…I spent countless hours researching, learning, studying, watching him, reading, and seeking help. Today we are so familiar with words like sensory sensitive, auditory processing disorders, GFCF diets, and various therapists; but 14 years ago…very little was studied. Because Ps. 139 is true-every person is made uniquely, I committed to learning about Jon (and my other children) so I could become the kind of mother they needed. Many mistakes happened (and still do) along the way; but my resolve is to honor the Lord with what He allows in my life.

I will say, Jon’s autism diagnosis was simple compared to his regression and additional challenges we encountered when he was 8.

RR: How has his diagnosis changed your family?

Colleen Thompson: It has changed everything about our lives. Autism was relatively insignificant until Jon regressed at age 8. His regression happened so suddenly…in about 3 weeks, he regressed by 50% and more in every area of functioning. I had to take him out of school, and begin the testing processes all over…terminal, neurological, physical, emotional, intellectual….it all started over. That is when my faith took a huge nose dive. I had followed all the rules, prayed and prayed, done the diets, therapies, home and school supports…and he began to quickly ‘slip away’. Testing revealed the diagnosis of: severe Tourette’s syndrome, ADHD, OCD, ODD, global anxiety, and possible seizure disorders. Then, two years ago, he was diagnosed with severe PTSD, separation anxiety, and irreversible brain trauma.

RR: How has it affected your family's day to day life?

Colleen Thompson: How is that answered…we live as scripture says…James-without knowing what tomorrow will hold; Paul talking about yearning for heaven but committed to knowing Christ while on earth, as Matthew 5 talks about the beatitudes….to be blessed with weakness and hardships; I Peter’s words in chapter one on the fiery ordeals that shape us (if we allow it to); and have a perspective that very few seem to have. Not much in this life is-in and of itself-satisfying…but we have learned to laugh a whole lot, forgive often, give space when needed, say I’m sorry, relish in the ‘easy’ moments, fight fair, and be filled with mercy and grace because we are in such need of it. I have to also say it has greatly illuminated the level of judgment and rejection that continues to exist in the church today.

I’ve learned that 98% of families with a disabled loved one encounter most harm from “Christians”. This doesn’t mean it’s everyone, but we have a long way to go in learning about tenderness, acceptance, grace, and mercy. It has also caused me to be so close to Jesus; when I think something Jon’s endured is beyond Christ’s understanding, I read His words about the pain and injustice He endured and simply cry over it all. Tears are okay in our home; candid and honest soul work is openly talked about. I don’t force my kids to “like” life or put on some fake smiley face…Christ didn’t, He doesn’t tell us to do that today, and the lack of authenticity only complicates life. Practically, life is different every day because Jon’s challenges change every day…he is affected by sleep, the weather, sound, movement, anxiety, change….we take it moment by moment sometimes. Of us all, he is the strongest as his body doesn’t cooperate with this life yet he keeps moving through each moment the best he can. It’s pretty simple, very humbling. He is a living picture of how God must love us, care for us, and desire us to fall into His arms for help and strength.

RR: Being a family that was already involved in ministry, how has having a child with special needs changed your ministry focus?

Colleen Thompson: Jon’s life has changed everything about my perspective on life and thus, what it means to honor the Lord and obey His call every day. I have come to learn all of life’s crisis…deaths, divorces, cancer, ill health, emotional and mental disorders, losses, grief’s, and why’s are revealing points, not really the things to overcome. Yes, we want good health, few losses, strong marriages, mental and physical stamina….but pain is the conduit ….the channel which reveals the truest condition of our soul’s. That is what God is about…shaping our soul’s, not how comfortable or happy we want to be. Ministry is an overflow of God’s work in one’s soul…sometimes only revealed to God and then when chosen, God uses one’s life to offer hope and comfort that He provides. I’ve always had a very soft heart and awareness of spiritual things; Jon’s needs have provided me a irreplaceable view of His love for us.

 Jon can’t understand this life in many ways because his mind and body aren’t equipped for it; yet isn’t that exactly what God tells us when the fall occurred. Because of our broken nature-sinful and disabled-it isn’t possible for a person to understand God’s ways, His thoughts, His timelessness, anything really. Like Jon, not understanding or being able to grasp things in life is constantly hard….so it is as a human being-thinking we know or have a right to get this life together is a false hope or belief. As a result, the Lord is my everything and I long for others to know this kind of freedom, grace, mercy, and truth. To be at ease with their failures, to be tender and compassionate; and truly believe God is at work THROUGH me, not because of me.

RR: How has this changed your understanding of the Bible and God?

Colleen Thompson: I think what I’ve said earlier defines this. I had a knowledge of God, but many false hopes and beliefs about Christianity. Faith was a “doing” thing….follow the rules or steps and BINGO, life is simple. What rubbish. Never is that part of theology; great theology brings such light and hope to this temporary place called earth.

RR: What advice would you give to parents just learning a similar diagnosis? What resources have been the most help for your family?

Colleen Thompson: advice…hhhmmmm, a lot of advice I guess comes through what I write on the Insight for Living blog posts. Accept you will cry often, loss will always hurt, you will be confused and lonely at times, misunderstood and judged; but nothing at all will exceed what Jesus endured on earth so earnestly and purposely dive into truth…God’s words, His promises, His commands, His grace, His truths…it’s the ONLY firm ground one will have. I would suggest getting connected to social places like what we have through Insight’s facebook page…to learn and listen; to ask questions and advocate for the one you love.

I would advise seeking a wise counselor…there is too much hurt to take on alone; men need different support so a man needs good, faithful, wise men to connect with. Finally, know that you will never surprise God with your thoughts and feelings. Keep expressing them to Him…in doubt, say I’m in doubt, angry…tell Him you are angry; afraid or depressed or tempted or whatever….tell God and ask Him to meet you where you are…to bring you one little hope or promise or something that helps you know He is with you. Sometimes it happens, other times He seems quiet….faith is what we believe when we cannot see as well as when we can. Finally, allow the Lord full control of your soul. Admit what comes up…selfishness, pride, impatience, whatever…the pain is to humble one’s soul and allow Christ to be established on the throne…nothing of self, everything of Him. That IS the purpose in every part of life.

Again, our heartfelt thanks to Colleen for sharing with us on World Autism Day!

Also in honour of World Autism Day, I'd like to share our Waiting Children who have been diagnosed with autism. What better day than today to advocate for them?

Justine

Girl, Born June 11, 2001

Justine is a pretty girl with dark hair and eyes.  She is fully mobile and active.   Her face bears features of FAS, but this is not documented and is only a cautionary disclosure. 

From her medical records:  congenital microcephaly, autism

As with all children living in these difficult conditions,  this child's cognitive development has regressed significantly since he/she was younger.  It is of crucial importance that any family considering the adoption of an older child from the mental institution setting be well prepared for what to expect with regards to how the neglect and lack of adequate medical care and nourishment has affected this child.    These children all have TREMENDOUS potential for improvement, and deserve to have a life outside these four walls. 

These children are truly living on borrowed time, and families should be home study approved before an official commitment can be made for this child.

$100.00 is available towards the cost of my adoption!

 

Denver #67-1

DOB: 2006
Diagnosis: childhood Autism
Denver is physically healthy, with no medical concerns. He has been diagnosed with childhood Autism. We do not have a lot of information on his current skill level.
He is listed as having delays in every aspect of his development. He participates in therapy and has a 1:1 caregiver that spends time with him each day. He is very attached to this caregiver
and has a good relationship with her.
Additional photos and a video are available of Denver.

 

Roger

This dear boy is listed as having "childhood autism" — if it is truly autism or autistic behaviors due to orphanage life and his other special needs, we really don't know.
He is said to have encephalopathy (unspecified disease of the brain), Childhood autism, and moderate mental delays.
He also has vision problems:  Convergent concomitant strabismus (crossing eyes) and hypermetropia (far-sighted); and is said to be anemic.
More photos available.

$22.50 is available towards the cost of my adoption!

The following do not have an official diagnosis of autism but have been suspected of it. They do still need families, however, so I'm including them!

Sasha

Caesar

Cullen

Brody

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In Case You Missed It! ABC World News Tonight with Diane Sawyer

Last night ABC World News Tonight with Diane Sawyer featured Reece's Rainbow and the Cox family who adopted Mia from Ukraine!

If you missed it, you can watch it here!

Thank you so much to Diane Sawyer and ABC World News Tonight for giving our orphans with Down syndrome a Voice of Hope!

Also, a very big thank you to Abbie Boudreau and Sarah Netter who presented the story so beautifully! Thanks also to the Cox family for allowing ABC to follow their adoption journey!

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Focus on Toys! Last minute gift ideas for children with special needs...

Tolo’s adorable Pop Up Dinosaurs Toddler Activity Toy features four colorful dinosaur eggs. Press the corresponding button that matches the shape and color on each dinosaur egg to watch each little reptile hatch. Toddlers and babies of all ages will love pressing the buttons and watching the cute little critters really hatch. Simply press each dinosaur back down to start all over again. A great way to encourage motor skill development and thinking skills. The bright colors, cute critters, and durable design make this manipulative toy super safe and super lovable for all little ones!

Available at Amazon.com ...cost: $21.00

First Snaps by Alex are bright and bold developmental toys that are fun to grab and grip. The snapping and pulling apart of each piece is excellent for developing gross motor and sensory motor skills, while the vibrant colors are perfect for visual stimulation.

Available at Amazon.com...cost $13.00

Oball from Rhino Toys is great for all ages. The holes on this lightweight ball make it the perfect toy for little fingers to grasp, throw, and catch while developing gross and fine motor skills. The different textures and colors of this hollow ball can also help children with sensory and visual impairments.

Available at Amazon.com...cost:  around $8.00

The Elefun game from Hasbro is sure to provide hours of butterfly catching fun for your child.  This physcially stimulating game improves your child's fine and gross motor skills as he catches and sorts butterflies.  The elephant's trunk shoots colorful butterflies over four feet into the air which also helps improve his visual perception.

Available at Kmart...cost:$17.99

Your child will be fascinated by this reusable write-on board. His fine motor skills are put to use as he grips, scribbles, and writes with the penlight stylus. Watch his delight as his drawings disappear before his eyes, leaving the board clear for more imaginative work. The stencils and textured designs included are also perfect in aiding with cognitive and sensory development.

Available at Target...cost: $20.99

This beautifully crafted wooden learning board with polished brass locks, latches, hooks and clasps has hide and seek pictures behind each door! This tremendous value is the perfect wooden toy for the curious sensory seeking child! The real working hardware helps develop fine motor and memory skills! A great wooden toy for teaching safety as well as developing dexterity! The visually stimulating, shiny, brass hardware as well as the repetitive nature of opening and closing each door, will keep your child interested hour upon hour!

Available at Amazon.com...cost: around $20.00


 

The Playskool Poppin' Park Elefun ball popper is fun and highly developmental. The game helps to develop your child’s hand-eye coordination, gross motor skills, fine motor skills and object performance.  It is designed with several bright colors to stimulate your child’s visual sense. The five different-colored poppin’ balls will catch your little one’s eye.

Available at Amazon.com ...cost:  around $28.00

Set a space for fun, learning and sharing. The Shapes and Sharing Picnic Basket by Leapfrog helps little learners explore shapes, colors, manners and more. Over 30 audio responses encourage pretend play, and the 14-piece set helps children build motor skills as they sort, match, stack, empty and fill. Parents can connect to the online LeapFrog Learning Path for customized learning insights and ideas to expand the learning.

Available at Walmart...cost: $21.97

The Discovery House from Leapfrog allows little hands to push, slide, open, close, turn...a learning home for little ones where there's always more to explore. 5 play areas offer more than 75 learning responses. Children can learn opposites and daily routines and listen to fun songs and stories. Parents can connect to the online LeapFrog Learning Path for customized learning insights and ideas to expand the learning.

Available at Toys R Us...cost: $19.99

The Write and Learn Touch Tablet will take your child on a learning adventure. This portable notepad has five different modes of play that teach your child about object and shape drawing, uppercase letters, lowercase letters and letter writing. Through graduated learning, this tablet allows your child to develop their skills, starting with simple line and shape drawing and moving up to actual letter formation. Its touch screen lets them draw and write directly on the screen using either their finger or the attached writing stylus. For added fun, 26 alphabet buttons each represent an animal that comes to life after the player correctly draws the matching letter on the touch screen. Touch screen with stylus. Cute notepad design for easy portability. 26 letter buttons, each represented by an animal. 5 modes of play. Progressive learning takes kids from shape drawing to letter formation.

Available at Walmart...cost $19.96

Please grab our Focus on Toys button for your blog!

Grab This!

Be sure to right click on the box below and then select all.

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Speak to Me...

Tired of your child stealing your laptop?  Well get them one of their own!

What is it:  It's the Tote and Go Latpop from Vtech.  This toy was named one of the top 10 toys for children with special needs by Parenting Magazine.

What does it do:  Your child can play one of 20 learning activities that teach letters, spelling, vocabulary, numbers, counting, logic, and shapes. For added usability, this educational toy also features a PC connection that allows for additional downloadable content such as stories and customized e-cards. The Tote & Go Laptop also includes a pretend social network of helpful animal friends that your child can visit, as well as a virtual fish tank that your child can care for. This portable learning laptop has a basic ABC keyboard and working mouse that stores in the top of the unit.
This toy promotes interaction by encouraging verbal replies.

Where do I get one:  Vtech's Tote and Go Laptop can be purchased at Amazon.com for around $19.99.

Please grab our Focus on Toys button for your blog!

Grab This!

Be sure to right click on the box below and then select all.

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For the Other Angels

Our Christmas Angel Tree is just around the corner (1 November - 31 December)! The Angel Tree is specifically our Waiting Angels ages 0-5 with Down syndrome.

So, just so we don't forget about all of our other children, this post is featuring some of our Other Angels.  Clicking on their names till take you to their profile page on Reece's Rainbow.

Please be sure to read to the end to see our new Prayer Warrior video!

Tina

Girl
FAS
If you are unfamiliar with FAS, please spend some time researching this condition.  Just as with Down syndrome, FAS and FAE have a wide variation of effects on each child, both medically, physically, and cognitively.   This is typically dependent on how long during the pregnancy the mother consumed alcohol, and of course, how much.   There is no way to know this ahead of time.
Regrettably, this orphanage is one of the poorer ones, with very little outside aid and very little hope.    All of the children are tiny and undernourished.  These children are immediately transferred at 4, and have little chance of survival where they are sent.  All of our waiting children need families, but these have a critical need.  Please consider one of these children soon!!

$10.00 is available towards the cost of my adoption! 

Shawn

Boy, born March 2006

What a dear little boy — look how he's holding his stuffed friends closely.  :)

Shawn is also listed as having a "minimal mitral prolapse" which is a heart-condition, but typically a mild condition, and often outgrown without any intervention.  However, an adopting family would want to follow up with a cardiologist once he is home.  He also has "mild hypermetropia" which means he is mildly far-sighted (and likely will outgrow as he grows older).

For more info and parent support on adopting and raising a child with HIV, please visit http://www.projecthopeful.org/

$30.00 is available towards the cost of my adoption! 

Mila (55)

Girl, Born July 5, 2006

FAS and cleft palate
HELP!!!   I HAVE ALREADY BEEN TRANSFERRED!!

Look at this darling little cupie doll! Mila was born with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, and several complications from that exposure. Her medical records indicate cleft palate, oval window (heart condition), strabismus, and microcephaly (all common symptoms of this condition). But she is also friendly and happy, loves attention, and desperately needs a loving family.
From an adoptive family who visited with her in August 2010:  "She was in a group with two other children. The two little boys were in the playpen. She was free to wander but she stayed in the little area for her group. When she would get a little too close to us, her caregiver would say something quietly and she would turn around and return to her group. I was impressed with her ability to follow instructions."

"The afternoon before, I spied her playing and babbling by herself in a shady spot by the front drive. I did not see more than a few children with her. I have seen her playing with others on other days though.   Truthfully, there are children here who are probably not going to fit in with a typical family. I don't see Mila as one of those children.   She is probably the height of a three year old but wirey, thin, skinny!"

If you are unfamiliar with FAS, please spend some time researching this condition. Just as with Down syndrome, FAS and FAE have a wide variation of effects on each child, both medically, physically, and cognitively. This is typically dependent on how long during the pregnancy the mother consumed alcohol, and of course, how much. There is no way to know this ahead of time.
Mila was blessed to be sent to an older children's home (instead of an actual institution).  But she still needs a family quickly.

$656.00 is available towards the cost of my adoption! 

 

Elena

Girl, Born December 12, 2006

Elena is a beautiful little girl born with CP.    She has blonde hair and blue eyes, and a gorgeous smile and glow about her.   She struggles the most with her left-side limbs, is considered significantly delayed, and also has partial atrophy of the visual nerves.  

  

Elena is still a favorite of the orphanage and will SO benefit from having a loving family encourage and cherish her!   Even being visually impaired, she deserves the opportunity to "see" her world outside the four walls of this orphanage and her crib!

$1045.50 is available towards the cost of my adoption!

Kenneth

 Boy, Born November 27, 2006

Photo dated Feb 2010.  Kenneth is a blonde haired, blue eyed cutie who was born with FAS.  Kenneth does have some spasticity on his left side, and will greatly benefit from therapy and a loving family to encourage him! He is diagnosed with hydrocephaly, but this is a result of the FAS. He is not in need of a shunt to correct (the doctors say).
As you can see from this updated picture, Kenneth is doing GREAT! He wants a mama and papa of his own.
If you are unfamiliar with FAS, please spend some time researching this condition. Just as with Down syndrome, FAS and FAE have a wide variation of effects on each child, both medically, physically, and cognitively.  This is typically dependent on how long during the pregnancy the mother consumed alcohol, and of course, how much.  There is no way to know this ahead of time.

$920.00 is available towards the cost of my adoption! 

Alicia

Girl, Born 2004
SIGNIFICANT RISK, PLEASE ADOPT ME SOON!!  SCHEDULED FOR TRANSFER IN AUGUST!!

 Miss Alicia is a beautiful little girl who needs a loving family.  Her other two typically developing sisters were adopted by other families already.   

Alicia was born to an HIV+ mother, and is HIV+ herself.  She has also has significant delays and challenges associated with her FAS.  (fetal alcohol syndrome).  We are waiting to learn if she has any medical complications, but she is cognitively delayed and does show signs of attention deficit and hyperactivity.    Alicia will do best where she can be the focus of attention and have her Daddy wrapped around her finger     Alicia has SO much potential, and deserves a family as much as her other sisters do.   I know there is a family out there for this little girl!  She is facing the mental institution soon, but has grown up in a loving and well kept orphanage so far.  A committed family now can prevent her transfer!

From an adoptive family who visited with her in July 2010:  " Alicia absolutely LOVES one on one attention. she is front and center if you are handing out kisses and hugs. You can see she wants a Mama all her own, and it will be so hard on her to have her sister leave to be adopted, as her other sister was already adopted.   (Their mother is deceased, most likely from AIDS).   She likes to swing.   She loved to lay her head in my lap while we were both on the bench swing and I would stroke her hair. The other kids didnt like to share my attention but Alicia was ok with it.   I could have two in my lap and she didn't mind, but she didnt like being crowded out when the other child decided they wanted me all to themselves.  She likes sensory input.   She kept rubbing her arm across my husband's unshaved face and shivering and making the funniest face and then immediately doing it again.  She likes to go down the slide again and again.   She really likes to be in the  middle of whatever is going on, and be included. But often she is excluded, even by attendants.  For Alicia it's a vicious circle. She is delayed, she gets frustrated, they don't let her do things the others are doing, she gets more delayed and more frustrated. She is VERY VERY SWEET AND LOVING.  She needs a family that has only a couple kids, not ten. She has HIV.   If you want a little girl to hug and kiss, she will GLADLY take all the hugs and kisses you can hand out. She isn't afraid of men but isn't inappropriate either. I saw her with my husband as well as another couple of young men who visit regularly.  Alicia is on the small side, like maybe size 4.  The children are valued and loved at this orphanage.   The grounds are visually stimulating and the kids get outside for a couple hours in the morning as well as afternoon.   They even go swimming in the pool they have there.   Hope someone will come for Alicia very soon!"   Alicia is toilet-trained and able to say when she needs to use the restroom.  She has tremendous potential if someone would take her home and love her!  

MORE PHOTOS AVAILABLE, MARRIED COUPLES ONLY
$0.00 is available towards the cost of my adoption!

Sara 3G

y4vd-3
Girl, Born June 2006
Sara is a beautiful little girl who needs a loving family!   She is diagnosed with general global delays, has some strabismus, does not speak very much, and has 6 fingers on one hand.   Info regarding her family history may lend some ideas about her delays and a more realistic and detailed diagnosis.
 Character: sociable, independent, affectionate

$20.00 is available towards the cost of my adoption! 

Alex

Boy, Born May 30, 2001

Alex is a handsome young man who is already living in the mental institution.    Despite this he has a  wonderful, open, and affectionate personality.  His medical records indicate congenital hydrocephaly, but he does not appear "hydrocephalic".  Alex is able to walk with assistance, and will truly blossom with family support and therapy.

From his medical records:  severe grade of mental delay, congenital hydrocephaly, divergent/external squint, glaucoma, lower paraparesis, and flat foot

As with all children living in these difficult conditions,  this child's cognitive development has regressed significantly since he/she was younger.  It is of crucial importance that any family considering the adoption of an older child from the mental institution setting be well prepared for what to expect with regards to how the neglect and lack of adequate medical care and nourishment has affected this child.    These children all have TREMENDOUS potential for improvement, and deserve to have a life outside these four walls. 

These children are truly living on borrowed time, and families should be home study approved before an official commitment can be made for this child.

I AM ELIGIBLE FOR AN OLDER CHILD GRANT

 

Lorie

Girl, Born May 28, 2005

SIGNIFICANT RISK, PLEASE ADOPT ME SOON!!

Look at this little princess!  She is already 6 and facing the institution very soon!!! 

Lorie was born with a spinal hernia and CP, leaving her with weak muscles and limbs.    The hernia was surgically removed, and she is walking with help now!   She does have some strabismus, but is such a gentle and happy child!   She is blessed to still be at the baby house, but will be transferred soon. 

From an adoptive family who visited with her in June 2011:  "She was walking using a walker, I walked up and talked to her and she held my hand and smiled at us. Dariya then walked up and she and Lorie held hands for a bit. When we walked away we said paka and she smiled and waved. Bless her, she needs a family. We learned that this baby house is up to 6 for spec needs so she probably will be here until next year since she just turned 6. Her feet turned in, she would definitely benefit from having braces and PT. The caregiver told us she didn't speak but, she understood us and was sweet."

PLEASE consider saving her, and giving her the chance to maximize her potential in a loving family!  

$3809.00 is available towards the cost of my adoption!

 

Matvey

Boy, Born August 28, 2004

SIGNIFICANT RISK, PLEASE ADOPT ME SOON!!

Matvey is such a cute little boy, with blonde curls!   He is cognitively delayed, but does not seem to have any official diagnosis other than that.  He has amazing potential!!   He was transferred to another region in 2010.

Please give this little guy a chance to fulfill his potential!    One of our own adoptive families who visited with him in March 2008 shared this with us:  "This little guy did NOT want to be photographed!  He was quite happy doing whatever he was doing before being brought into the room but having his picture taken was not high on his priority list.  He has "deep mental delay" (understand that this is according to Eastern European standards — he was more aware and alert than a child with Down syndrome might be at the same age).  I can't tell you his eye color because he down-right refused to look at me, but those blonde curls sure were cute!"

$0.00 is available towards the cost of my adoption!

Chrystyna

  

  Girl, Born January 17, 2002

SIGNIFICANT RISK, PLEASE ADOPT ME SOON!!

Chrystyna is a beautiful, brown haired, brown eyed girl who deserves a chance at a better life!  Her official orphanage papers say she has developmental delays/difficulties from birth, but nothing more specific than that.  It is possible she has FAS (Fetal Alcohol Syndrome).  Her biological mother  was deprived her parental rights in December 2004, and the biological father is not known.  Chrystyna has so much potential, and will be a precious gift to any family who adopts her.
Chrystyna is already living in an institution, so we need a family for her right away!
Chrystyna does have a sister, Karen.   Karen does not have any diagnosed special needs.   If you are interested in adopting both girls, you can do so, or Chrystyna is free to be adopted separately.   Please inquire!

UPDATE:  God has been watching Chrystyna.  She was recently transferred out of the institution into a wonderful facility, where they teach these children, work with them, and they appear very well cared for.  The difference in the few girls who were transferred OUT of the institution is incredible!   Please give these girls a second chance for a loving family!
If you are unfamiliar with FAS, please spend some time researching this condition.  Just as with Down syndrome, FAS and FAE have a wide variation of effects on each child, both medically, physically, and cognitively.   This is typically dependent on how long during the pregnancy the mother consumed alcohol, and of course, how much.   There is no way to know this ahead of time.

$0.00 is available towards the cost of my adoption! 

Andrey

Boy, Born November 29, 2002

From our facilitator who has visited with him:
HIV.    His life story is very typical   The  boy doesn't have brothers and sisters. His mother abandoned him at the delivery house,  the father was registered after the mother's words.  Loves to construct, to draw, very assiduous,  wants to know  everything about What? Where? When and  Who?   Hardworking, can focus his attention and  be concentrated on the most important things.   Among children he is very supportive and friendly. For more info and parent support on adopting and raising a child with HIV, please visit http://www.projecthopeful.org/

$0.00 is available towards the cost of my adoption!

Karen 

Girl, Born January 12, 1996

Karen is the older, biological sister of Chrystyna.   She is a beautiful Roma girl with dark hair, dark eyes, and olive skin.  She is 12 years old.  She is healthy and smart and has no diagnosed special needs.    She goes to school and has no negative behavioral issues.  She is just a pre-teen in need of a loving family!

Karen and Chrystyna are living in different orphanages, but in the same region.  It would be wonderful if they could be adopted together, but our facilitator says it may be possible to adopt them separately.  If you might be seeking a sibling set, please inquire!  Both girls need a loving family!

I AM ELIGIBLE FOR AN OLDER CHILD GRANT

  Emmitt

Boy, Born January 26, 1998
 Emmitt is a sweet boy.  He is living in one of the mental institutions, and has been for many years, yet he remains sweet, intelligent, and kind.  Ttwo of our adopting families met him while they were there, and are pleading for a family to save him.     From his medical records:  myelomeningocele  (spina bifida)   From one of our adoptive families:  " Emmitt has a severe deformity of his legs.  He cannot walk at all.  He is very friendly, funny, and talkative. He desperately seeks out attention.  He was talking to my husband, and holding Zack's hand, which he then put on top of his head for Zack to rub his hair.  He is extremely intelligent, and just precious!  I brought him paper and crayons, and he drew me a flower "
We are seeking more official medical information about his condition, but hope someone out there will see this sweet young man and know his kind and loving spirit.
I AM ELIGIBLE FOR AN OLDER CHILD GRANT

Julie

Julie
Girl, Born April 1998

Love this beautiful Pippi Longstocking!    Julie is a sweet, quiet, but energetic, redhead with big blue eyes and freckles.  When she was placed in an orphanage a few years ago, she did not want to speak.  Now she expresses herself reasonably well, with an occasional stutter.    She studies and recites well in her orphanage, but she is about 3 years behind her agemates.  She controls her actions well, is calm, likes to work, draw and play with toys.  She came to a 3-week summer camp in America and lived with a family, who thought she might have brain damage.  Julie was very patient in adult company, played nicely by herself or with other kids, showed determination and stamina in learning how to ice skate mostly by herself, and loved the water park, descending the steepest, scariest slide with gusto.  Julie has a sense of humor and a hearty laugh.  With a good ear for language, she should be able to learn English just fine, once a loving family gives her that opportunity.  She wants a family of her own. 

I AM ELIGIBLE FOR AN OLDER CHILD GRANT

Owen 3G

Owen (egxb-3)
Boy, Born December 2007
This darling little boy is waiting for his forever family, and we believe his condition to be one called Saethre-Chotzen Syndrome.

Also known as Acrocephalosyndyldactyly Type Chotzen or Saethre-Chotzen Syndrome. Chotzen Syndrome is a dominant genetic condition. They have a tower-shaped skull (acrocephaly), fused fingers and/or toes (syndactyly), asymmetric face, widely spaced eyes, droopy eyelid (ptosis), strabismus (crossed or "wall-eyes"), beak-like nose, small upper jaw, and jutting out lower jaw (prognathism).   Some plates in their skull close early.   This is called craniosynostosis.   Often people with Chotzen Syndrome are mildly hard of hearing. Sometimes they're unusually short.   Occasionally the closing of the plates in their skull can compress their brain and slow their development.   Sometimes boys with Chotzen Syndrome have undescended testicles. 

$2935.00 is available towards the cost of my adoption!

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