Some friendships are God’s favourites, especially when you become the chosen ones to fix and give someone else a beautiful life together. Emily and Amanda had a lovely, unbreakable bond that became even more special when, just in their twenties, the best years of one’s life, they were chosen to become foster parents.
They knew they could do it, as all the problems they had faced, no matter how big or small, they could navigate through together, and their mutual love for children prepared them for everything!
Emily and Amanda first met in high school, and it was when Amanda was going through her adoption journey that four children diagnosed with Down syndrome became a part of their lives. Emily supported the family well, and over time, their bond progressed so much that they became like pillars of support for each other.
Through their experiences, their paths were also decided. Thus, Emily opted for a social work degree, whereas Amanda stepped into elementary education with her passion for spreading knowledge. The girls were well aware of how their degrees were impactful and how their voices could positively impact society or their communities.
On 31st May 2019, the girls planned a trip to the Oregon Coast to spend time together, and back then, they did not know how the trip would change their lives forever.
The girls were surprised but excited to learn that the same thing was stuck in their minds: foster care! It was not something they wanted to do when they got old, but now, when they were young, and so, after the conversation, the decision was made. They would foster the child together! The licensing process began secretly, as both were unsure about the reaction from their families and other friends.
Not only this, but they also put in all their efforts to get a small apartment and a crib to provide and fulfill all the essential needs of the baby who would be welcomed into their lives. This is how you made your dreams become reality! In 2020, they got the license and received the first call in eight days.
The agency was looking for a home for a three-week-old baby. It was an exciting moment, and without any delay, the same afternoon, they were off to pick up the baby who had been living with them for 11 days. They spent countless hours loving him, and their motherly instincts kicked in. It was hurtful when they had to give him away, but they knew more beautiful angels would also arrive soon.
All of this happened during the chaos that the coronavirus had spread, but in a month, they received another call, this time for a two-day-old baby. The welcoming and bidding goodbyes followed, and four months later, another said yes to it. Emily and Amanda’s lives were now all about loving tiny humans, attending court dates, and countless doctor visits, and they enjoyed every bit of it!
Of course, it was not an easy job, as you can not fail to love them even when you feel tired. Not just this, healing every time you say goodbye is also a tough job, but hearing the belly laugh, and how a child feels safe around you, was the most beautiful feeling ever.
Emily and Amanda do not know what paths the future holds for them, and they probably won’t be able to co-parent forever, but being such great friends, this experience is a blessing. Both the beautiful ladies put in everything they could for the babies!
