I’m so grateful to my friend Jillian Mitchell for sharing
her story of fostering to adopt her son, Fletcher.  Jillian
and her husband Matty went through quite the journey to find the
family they were always meant to have.  
 
As a young couple, Jillian and Matty set out to foster a child
before ever trying to have biological children, knowing there are
so many kids out there who need and deserve an amazing family.
 
 
On December 28, 2011, they received the phone call that made
them parents and within hours they were bringing their son home
with them. 
 
What followed was over 2 years of highs and lows and a lot of
love.  They didn’t know how their foster story would end, but
they were able to fully embrace Baby Fletcher as their son
immediately, having agreed with each other early on that,
 
“Whatever child we bring home deserves all of our hearts no
matter what happens.  When they are with us we will love them
like they will be with us forever, no matter what happens.”
 
For 2 years, Jillian and Matty worked through a grueling court
mandated visitation schedule where Fletcher had time with his
biological mom (sometimes 4 days a week – where he cried through
entire visits as Jillian listened in from outside).  They
endured many court dates and changes of events & routines as
Fletcher’s biological mom bounced in & out of sobriety and
rehab.  
 
On more than one occasion, they feared they may lose their son.
 
 
You will note how calm and graceful Jillian is as she shares
their story.  Even in the darkest moments of her life, knew
she was with the family she was meant to have.  She admits her
gut told her, “I know it’s going to be okay because I know
this is my son.”
 
I can’t thank Jillian and Matty enough for sharing their
story.  I hope it inspires another couple to go out and find
the family they are meant to have.