"Baby" Propps Adoption Fund

Hi, I'm Julie, Jennifer's sister, Joel's sister in law, and Sophia's Aunt.

As many of you already know, Jennifer and Joel recently welcomed a new baby girl into their family this past October 4th. Like most new parents, they were nervous and so very excited to get the call their baby was being born. It was dream being fulfilled after seven long years of trying to have another child. They were actively involved in prenatal visits, the birth, and maintained communication with the birth mother through their open adoption. They daughter was finally here and Sophia proudly wore her "I'm a big sister" shirt to school the morning after she was born! Oh, what a blessing to our entire family she was.

It started out with a few complications, but Jen and Joel were committed. It was love at first sight:she was theirs. We all loved her and watched her grow and flourish for nearly 6weeks. They were already dreaming of birthdays, sports, graduation, and even a little sibling rivalry. We were all so happy for Jen and Joel. If only this was their happy ending. How quickly dreams can turn to nightmares. A few short weeks ago, Jennifer and Joel received a phone call that required them to give up their daughter within 24 hours. In Mi ,the law allows birth mothers to change their mind. A feeling of sadness filled their hearts as they said their goodbyes the following day. Although, she is not physically here in their home, she will always be in their hearts and apart of their family. Through her baptism, she is also now part of God's family and we must trust He loves her more than we can ever imagine.

What to do next? Do they give up? Should they even consider trying again? Is it too soon? The expenses? The raw emotions? As they mourned their daughter, questioning why/how this could even happen, they still felt that overriding desire to grow their family. Their agency was very supportive and encouraged them that it was "ok" to try again. They have faith because it felt as if there was a reason they went through this :they had to keep going.

Even through all of this, and understandably guarded, they have learned that adoption is still a wonderful and loving choice.Through recommendations and family support, they have now decided to use a Fla based firm. Incredibly, they have already received a call of a possible placement. Everything is moving so quickly and we should know soon if it's meant to be. With this comes additional expenses; in excess of the already large financial losses and legal fees from the first adoption.

You know Jen and Joel:they would NEVER think to ask for help. They are such givers and never want to impose. I have heard many of you say "I wish there was something we can do to help?" Along with Joy (our other sister) and some close friends and family we decided to organize a campaign to help Jen and Joel complete their family. If you still feel like you would like to help them in some way, we have created an account here to fund raise for them. They are aware that we have done this and are very appreciative (although very humble and gracious for the help).

Financial donations can be made right here on this website. We also are trying to organize a dinner/activity event in the next month if that is easier for you. Or join us in both. I will keep you posted about the event as we would love to have you there. In addition to financial donations, they may also need airfare to Fla and accommodations for up to 1-2 weeks. If you know of anyone in the travel industry that can help: please let us know.

Thank you again for considering helping Jen and Joel. I know it means a lot to them to have your support. All of you helped them reach this decision:it was all of you who showed your love and support during this unimaginable loss. Thank you for being there for all of them. Thank you for those of you who have already helped so much! Please continue your prayers for Jen, Joel, Sophia, and that their precious baby daughter will have a safe and loving life in her other home. Pray that their new son or daughter will be here soon. They are ready and excited at the chance to love again.

I invite you to please share this in your facebook timeline and forward by e-mail. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to email me.
Thanks

-Julie (Joy, and others helping me get this fundraiser off the ground)