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We help foster faith-based stewardship in the community for the spiritual, educational and charitable needs of all. After an emergency C-section with her first child, Christie’s life was in danger. She was at risk of a stroke and admitted to the ICU with blood clots in her lungs. “Another pregnancy would be traumatic, and I didn’t want to risk leaving Ava without a mom.”
Having struggled to conceive, Christie and her husband Josh had already considered adoption. When Ava was five, they made their decision and began speaking with a private adoption agency – but Christie didn’t like their approach. “It was a for-profit organization, and they treated it entirely like a business transaction. They wanted $10,000 upfront, with no guarantee of a match.”
A friend suggested Catholic Charities adoption services. “It was a whole different experience,” says Josh. “They were so supportive of the birth mom, the adoptive family, and the child. They want the best match for everyone.”
During a home visit with their Catholic Charities social worker, Christie knew it just felt right. “She interviewed both Josh and me, and even Ava. She was very protective of the birth mother, wanting to respect her wishes. That was important to us.” The couple was pleased that Catholic Charities advocated for an “open adoption,” helping adoptive parents navigate communication with the birth mother and encouraging disclosure of medical history.
Christie describes their social worker as genuinely dedicated to helping them through documentation and legal work as they looked for a perfect match between the birth family and the adoptive family. “We were thrilled when she called to say a baby girl had been born, and the birth mother chose us. We got our approval letter the same day we got Charlotte Rose.”
Josh was impressed with how quickly things moved and the resources provided by Catholic Charities, including adoptive parenting classes, monthly home visits, continuing communication, and lifelong support. “To make it truly successful, you want somebody dedicated to doing it right. They have you pay an application fee and just a few fees until a baby is matched to your family. That’s how you know they care.”
Ava is thrilled to be a big sister – and for Josh and Christie, it feels like Charlotte Rose has always been part of the family. She’s a perfect match.
If you or someone you know is in need of assistance, please contact Adoption/Foster Care Services via Sandra Fay at 440.843.5631.