We are so excited our first two children from April’s Hope Camp have been united with their families this week! Several more children from the camp will meet their families in the coming months.

We still have many children who are wanting and waiting for their families. I want to reach out to you on behalf of one of these beautiful little ones in particular.

Layna just turned 5 years old and is diagnosed with severe (or “massive”) hydrocephalus. This means she has an abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in all four ventricles of her brain. We do not know why she did not have surgery earlier in her life, but we have inquired about the possibility of her having surgery now. The doctors have advised the orphanage to not perform surgery on her right now as they feel a shunt would not be the best treatment option for her. At this point, the orphanage has been advised to continue observing her and further treatment options will be considered if she is unable to find a family.

Though Layna has gone 5 years without any medical intervention, she has continued to develop normally. The only side effect her body has from the hydrocephalus is that she is unable to run stably. She can walk, jump, play, and climb stairs just like any other 5 year old. She knows her numbers, shapes and colors, and many opposites as well.

This beautiful little girl has a smile that is incredibly contagious. She has an immensely caring and loving heart and is often trying to help younger children. While we were at the camp, she held hands at all times with 2 other girls, helped them with their crafts, introduced them over the microphone to a room full of people, and looked after them at all times. Her soul is so pure, innocent and so full of love. We know that she will be a true blessing to her family, and we cannot wait to see her come home.

Based on reviews of her file, we know that she needs treatment as soon as possible. We also know that many doctors here will be concerned about the fact that she has not any surgery thus far. However, it is imperative that we find her family and get her home as soon as possible so that she can receive the best possible care.

If you feel you would be open to considering brining Layna or any other of the children in the photos below into your family, please contact me.

I spend hours a day sorting, searching, calling, emailing, and continually attempting to find forever families for hundreds of children. At times, it can seem a daunting task: sorting through hundreds of files and tons of application, just trying to come up with one perfect match. When it happens, the rewards are bountiful. It is an overwhelming feeling to know that I am a part of this beautiful, amazing process of bringing families together, and I am forever grateful.

It is rare we are able to meet the children we work for, but occasionally, we are graced by a visit or two.

This past year, I was able to be a part of helping two beautiful, amazing young ladies come home with their forever families. Their friendship spanned years together in their orphanage, and they were able to come home within months and miles of each other. Their mothers brought them into the office this month, and I must say that I was overcome with joy to see the story of these two young ladies unfold before me.

I feel immense gratitude to know these children, to be able to see them come home with their families and to be a part of their story. I doubt these beautiful children have any idea the impact they have on us, but the imprint of their faces on our hearts is deep and everlasting. ~Stephanie~

Brycie, Clare, Stephanie, Leigh Anne

Sarah, with her sisters, Allison and Quinn, Stephanie, Leigh Anne

Clare and Sarah reunited