In 2014, my mother got a call for her first placement for foster care. She was an adorable 4-year-old girl named Laila. I’ll always remember the heavy sadness she felt coming into a stranger’s home with no familiar faces. Despite that, Laila and I became best friends. I thought I was being a positive role model for her, but little did I know that she was the one playing a huge role in my life and future. Within four short months, it was time for Laila to be placed with her aunt and uncle.
On our way to say goodbye to her, my family and I stopped at a Walgreens. Inside the store, I saw an entire aisle dedicated to Valentine’s Day stuffed animals that were 75-80% off. Since we have many children in our families and environment, I knew that I could grab a handful of stuffed animals and find good homes for them. But there was one stuffed animal... a white teddy bear with a brown knit sweater. I said to myself, “This one is for Laila.”
As we entered my mom’s house, there was Laila on the couch with the biggest, most contagious smile.
“Laila, I have a surprise for you!” Excited, she waited to see what I was pulling out from behind my back.
I said in a soft teddy bear voice, “You’re so pretty. You’re so smart. You are going to do great things when you are older.”
I have never seen someone smile so big as she replied, “Really, you think so?”
“Yes, and if you ever forget, here is this little teddy bear to remind you.”
That experience has always been in my heart. It made me think there are so many children who might never hear positive words like they are loved, talented or amazing. As someone who was in foster care and adopted, I know the impact it can have on one’s life to have someone believ in you and show you that additional opportunities are out there. From that moment, I knew I had to be obedient to the calling that was put upon my life.
One of my favorite quotes is by Tim Storey. He says, “Somebody is waiting on the other end of your obedience.” This is why E3 moves to help encourage, equip, and empower the youth of our communities currently in foster care through acts of love, support, and motivation.
Love is one of the biggest values in my life. Another one of my favorite quotes is, "You'll never look into the eyes of someone God does not love." As a result, I do my best to think about this when interacting with anyone, whether it is a child, biological parents (including my own), or those in our community.
I have many goals and love using visualization, to achieve those goals, by way of vision boards. This is the best way that I have been able to bring my goals to life. Some of my ongoing goals include raising well-rounded and compassionate children, bringing the best goods and services to E3 AZ Foundation, and becoming an avid cyclist.
Throughout my life, I have found a love for sports such as basketball, soccer, and cycling. I have also come to love cultures of all kinds. It is through this passion that I have learned to speak Spanish fluently and can greet others in as many as FIVE different languages. (But don't ask me for more than a greeting!)
Family means so much to me. Growing up, I was raised and loved by my aunts, uncles, cousins, and family friends. It really took a village. Marvin (husband) and I are proud parents of two amazing boys. Each kiddo has their unique personality and talents. One of their biggest traits, is their kind, giving hearts. As a family, we have opened our home and hearts to children over the last 6 years. The life of a foster family is by no means easy and we are extremely grateful for the support that we have received over these years.