Our Ethiopian adventure began in April of 2004. My husband Eugene and I contacted an agency after learning of their Ethiopian program. We were drawn to this African program as one year prior we had domestically adopted our African American son, Carter. Within eight months we received our referral for a beautiful, healthy, four-month-old boy and quickly began making travel arrangements. After a heartfelt good-bye to our four children we were on our way, headed for a truly life changing experience. We had done our homework, spoken to others who had made the trip, and felt prepared to welcome our new son with open arms. What we could not have prepared for was the emotional impact Ethiopia would have on us.
Although we were in Ethiopia to adopt a child, we felt overwhelmed in the face of such need. The inequality of the human condition on the streets of Ethiopia compared to our home town was difficult to justify.The day we met little Eli was a reprieve from the outside world. Horizon House truly was an oasis of hugs, smiles, and lots of love. As the gates of the orphanage opened to welcome us, tiny little faces peered out of the door with giggles and looks of anticipation. We had traveled with four other families so we were able to witness the creation of many families right before our eyes. Before we knew it, we had little Elijah Yohanis in our arms. He was all smiles and great big eyes. We were now a family of seven.It was very important to us to document as much information as we could about Elijah's life to share with him in the future. We were thrilled to learn that we had an opportunity to visit with some of Eli's birth relatives! Although his birth parents had both passed away, we were able to travel to the rural home of his aunt and uncle. This visit was an amazing moment for my husband and me. Through an interpreter, Eli's uncle was able to share details of our new son's life and to express his gratitude to our family for welcoming Elijah into our home. He explained that Eli had older siblings that were being cared for by various relatives. We were not able to meet the sisters as they lived a good four-day hike from the nearest road. We vowed to the uncle to keep in touch and send photos when we could. We left with him some school supplies to share with the sisters when he saw them next.
Our emotions were spinning as we traveled back to our comfortable, safe, and clean life in the States. Although Elijah's future was certainly bright, we couldn't help but think of his sisters and what the future would hold for them. It was not at all a difficult decision for us to decide to sponsor these girls through our agency's sponsorship program. For about one dollar a day we are able to supplement their caregivers and allow them the chance to go to school. We now have ongoing correspondence with Eli's aunt who has gathered the girls from the countryside to live together in her home, the very home we had visited. These girls will now be attending school for the very first time. It is our dream that one day we will all be able to gather again at the home of Elijah's aunt and uncle and share stories with these beautiful girls about healed pasts and bright futures.
Read about Sue discussing the benefits and considerations of becoming an adoptive parent.
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Each country has its strengths and challenges. Which country is right for you? Why might one country's adoption policies work for one couple and not another. Sue brings some insights to some important questions.
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Sue discusses the extended CCI family,the wonder of bringing families together, and the life-long relationships between the agency and those we serve.
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There are many agencies to choose from. Which is the best choice for you? Sue discusses the strengths, philosophy, and approach of CCI and why we might be the right fit for you and your family.
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