A few mentors in our lives hold an irreplaceable place forever, and about life? Things happen at the right time, when things fall into place, and you see the different forms of love. Troya was meant to be teaching at that school, from where life brought the biggest blessing she has ever had. Sometimes, things you least expect or do not see coming your way happen in life, and you cherish them forever. The same happened with Troya when she crossed paths with David, a thirteen-year-old boy who was part of the center she worked in. She never knew how he would become a permanent part of her little family and be the source of joy for the rest of her life.
She taught in a self-contained class at the Thompson Sixth Grade Center, and her job there was that of a paraprofessional. Although David’s class was not the one Troya was assigned to, the visits to his class were often made during recess to play with his group. It was a usual day at work when Troya went to his class. A colleague, the coach at the center, told Troya that David’s biological parents were looking for a family to adopt him, and he had already been put on an adoption site.
The news was surprising; however, Troya did not give it a single thought and was ready to make the dear child a permanent part of her life. She could not even believe the words she had experienced, as adopting a child was not something she ever thought of; however, she could not let it just slide away if she was getting a chance to give him a home, love, and a forever family. Knowing nothing about the adoption process, Troya contacted the state office for assistance, where she got connected to a social worker.
The journey started with hundreds of forms and piles of paperwork that needed to be filled out. Doctor visits and foster classes are also part of Troya’s routine now. The only part Troya was hesitant about was when it was time to tell her family. She was happily married and had three kids, whom she did not know would react. Gladly, they did not even hesitate or question Troya once. Their support was enough to keep Troya going on the journey she had embarked on.
Although the journey was slowly progressing and was bumpy overall, in January 2016, David started visiting the family on weekends to build a bond and comfort zone. Troya recalls how special the first ride home was, as she did not know what would come her way in the future; however, seeing him happy and fitting in the family was a source of pure joy. By spring, he was ready to move in permanently. Troya was glad to see how smoothly everything happened, as she feared him accepting them as family, but the morning Troya saw him enjoy his meal while watching TV at 4 in the morning, she knew he belonged to them.
David had to learn multiple things, from brushing teeth to managing his hearing, and Troya taught him all with great patience. Over time, the boy gained confidence and thrived despite being diagnosed with deletion syndrome. David is doing great in his inclusion classes now and is a top player in baseball and TopSoccer. He has a social circle and brings immense joy to the family. Although Troya never knew the family needed him, they now feel happier, and the family feels complete. So, if you, too, are someone who has a chance to be a child’s forever home, do not miss out!
