I started living in foster care permanently when I was 12 years old. I moved from home to home—about twelve in total before I turned eighteen. It was tough not having a steady adult in my life, but thankfully, my caseworkers kept me in the same school. That little bit of consistency made a huge difference. It helped me meet someone who would change my life—my track coach, Scott.
At first, I did not believe in myself. People warned me that foster kids often do not finish school, can’t keep jobs, or end up in trouble. I was scared that would be my future too. But then Scott came along. He did not give up on me, even when I got upset at practice or acted out. He forgives me and keeps showing up.
One summer, while practicing sprints, Scott casually said, “I think you can win state… If you do what I say.” No one had ever told me something like that before. I did not believe I could do it, but I decided to trust him and follow every workout he gave me.
That year, I gave it everything. I did not miss a single practice. Even when no one else showed up, I did. Scott and I had a lot of one-on-one time, and we built a strong bond. He became more than just a coach—he became a father figure. I looked to him for advice and support in all areas of my life.
When I turned eighteen, I aged out of foster care and had no place to live. I slept on couches, floors, wherever I could. But I still went to practice every day, and Scott made sure I got rides and had what I needed. One day, during a car ride, he told me something that changed everything: his daughters wanted me to be part of their family. He said, “You can always come back here. This is your home.” At that moment, I felt accepted and truly cared for.
Not long after, I stood on the podium at the state championship meet—four times. I had won four state titles in one day. I was the first person of color from my school to do that and the first woman to win a title like that there. Then came the emails—colleges offering me scholarships. I accepted a full-ride for both track and academics.
Scott and his family welcomed me into their home. For every holiday, there was a place for me at their table and a stocking with my name on it. His daughters, Madison and Emma, became my sisters.
We talked about adult adoption, but it was too expensive. Still, they gave me their last name, and I carry it proudly. In 2018, I graduated college—something only 3% of foster youth achieve. A week later, Scott walked me down the aisle at my wedding.
One person’s belief in me changed everything. It reminded me that we all need someone, no matter our age. Real love shows up. It commits. And it never lets go.
