Ellen’s* story shows just how strong a mother’s love can be, even in the toughest times. She was raising a six-year-old and a nine-month-old who needed regular therapy and doctor visits after being born early. Bills filled the kitchen table. She was also trying to leave a violent relationship while her partner struggled with substance use. Every day felt like a fight to stay afloat.
Then she learned she was pregnant again.
With so much already on her shoulders, Ellen made a brave and loving choice to make an adoption plan for her unborn baby. She wanted her child to have a safe and steady future.
But then at only 27 weeks, Ellen went into labor. Her baby girl entered the world weighing just two and a half pounds. Her tiny hand was no bigger than a nickel. She was rushed from the local hospital to one with a strong NICU.
Susan, one of Lutheran Child and Family Services of Illinois’ adoption staff members, had never worked with a baby this premature before. She moved fast to find an LCFS couple hoping to adopt who would be up to the challenge. The moment the family she contacted heard about this tiny child, they said yes with full hearts. The adoptive mom, a teacher, took a leave from work and spent every one of the 85 days in the hospital right beside her.
Susan calls what happened next nothing short of magical.
One day while she was visiting the adoptive mom and baby during skin-to-skin care, the baby began to fuss. Alarms filled the room. The adoptive mom whispered, “What’s wrong, sweetie?” Her voice was soft and warm. She held out her pinky. That tiny baby wrapped her whole hand around the top of it. In an instant, her heart rate settled. Her breathing slowed. The alarms faded to quiet. Peace filled the room.
Today, that once-fragile baby is almost a year old and doing fantastic. She has no lasting effects from her early birth. She smiles, plays and is growing strong.
Ellen is also standing tall again. With support from Susan, the adoptive parents and other social service providers, Ellen regained her footing and her independence. She returned to work. She can care for her older children. She feels hopeful again.
The adoptive family still FaceTimes, texts and shares photos with Ellen, and they plan to meet up sometime soon. Love continues to grow on all sides.
This happens because caring people choose to give. When you support LCFS, you make sure families in crisis are met with open arms and guidance.
*To protect privacy, names and images are representational only.