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For Michelle and Clay, the journey to expand their family through adoption from foster care proved to be a meaningful choice. After experiencing three biological children and several heartbreaking miscarriages, they realized they still had much love to offer.
“I always knew in my heart that we should name her Lilly, even before she was part of our lives. Clay joked about the name initially, playfully calling her ‘Lilypad,’” Michelle shared, laughing as she recalled the moment. “Then I received a call from social services, and they told me they had a child for us named Lilly.”
“It felt like a decision made by the whole family,” said Makayla, their eldest daughter, who was 11 years old when Lilly joined them. “It was a really exciting time.”
Michelle recounted Lilly’s difficult past: “The severity of the abuse Lilly suffered led to a swift termination of parental rights. She had already endured so much by the age of five months.”
Reflecting on Lilly’s progress, Makayla said, “Seeing her transform from being unresponsive to finally engaging with us was truly rewarding.”
Over the years, Makayla dedicated herself to attending Lilly’s therapy sessions and learning how to provide the necessary support for her sister.
“I don’t think I would have pursued a career in special education without those experiences. It has granted me a unique patience with children,” she explained to CBS News Colorado.
Lilly is now 15 and actively participates in high school life. When asked about school, she candidly shared, “I like it! Well, except for fire drills. Those are definitely the worst.”
Makayla acknowledged the profound influence Lilly had on her perspective towards children and their potential. As she considered starting her own family, adoption remained an appealing option for her. “There are so many children in need of loving homes,” she expressed.
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