Stephanie's Corner:

Hi Everyone!

We are so excited that we have been able to match over 140 children so far this year with their forever families through the Waiting Child program, and there are still many children waiting to be placed. 

There are currently over 250 little boys and girls waiting to be matched with their families.  These children range in age from 10 months to 13 years old.  More than two-thirds of these children are boys and half of them are over the age of 5.  The children have a wide variety of special needs ranging in severity including, but not limited to, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, limb differences (i.e.: missing and/or deformed fingers, missing or deformed feet and/or hands), developmental delays, Hepatitis B, hydrocephalus, and different levels of vision loss. 

We understand that while trying to educate yourself on these special needs, some of the information you find can be overwhelming.  We recommend printing out the application and discussing each special need with your pediatrician, an international adoption specialist, and your social worker.  They will be able to give you the most comprehensive view of what the special needs are and what the prognosis of the children may be.  Of course, Leigh Anne and I are always open to speak with you and give you our own insights on some of the special needs you may not be fully aware of. 

There are many international adoption clinics across the United States that offer comprehensive services for families who are hoping to adopt a child with special needs.  For example, at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, they provide consultations involving the special needs checklist, very quick reviews of files for children with special needs, and follow-up services and referrals once you bring your child home.  We suggest familiarizing yourself with an international adoption clinic and a family doctor you feel comfortable with, so that if you do receive a call regarding a child’s file, you will already have a relationship established with a doctor’s office for review of the file for your family.  This will also help your family be fully aware of what each special need entails.  I hope you will find this information useful.  I wish you all a safe and happy Holiday!

Sincerely,

Stephanie Crouch
Waiting Child Program Manager
Great Wall China Adoption