My childhood was incredibly challenging. When one hardship faded, another would emerge, plunging me into a constant state of mental unrest. It felt like I was perpetually walking a tightrope, struggling to maintain my sanity while trying to defuse the anger of those who hurt me.

In April 2022, when I was 17, I decided that enough was enough. I was tired of always putting others first and suffering from years of abuse. As I grew up, I realized what was happening to me was wrong and harmful. With some help, I reported my mother's husband to the police. That day, I was taken into state custody, and I waited for a foster family to take me in. During the week and a half, I stayed there, I wondered what it would be like to live with a new family—would they like me? Would things be any different? The longer I stayed, the more I felt dread.

Eventually, I was placed with a foster family. I entered foster care believing I craved independence—a way to live with friends whom I trusted were the only ones capable of truly loving me. I assumed that, given my age and the looming prospect of aging out, no foster placement would ever really consider me their own. I went in feeling unloved as if I were just an easy paycheck.

The families I lived with, while not as damaging as my biological one, each had issues that made it impossible for me to stay. Near the end of my third placement, I even planned to run away and hide, too exhausted to try to fit in with yet another family. Every disappointment reinforced the feeling that no one on earth cared for me—I was utterly alone. This belief, long held in my heart, only deepened during that third placement.

By the time I arrived at my final foster home, I had resigned myself to a life of being unloved and uncared for. I was convinced that, just like before, they would cast me aside once I graduated high school.

My first week living with Shawn, Matt, and Ellie changed everything for me. They welcomed me with open arms, ensuring every need was met, and I felt entirely at home. Their genuine care and readiness to listen was a profound cultural shock—I had never experienced such love and respect, and it moved me to tears, challenging my long-held belief that I was destined to be alone.

Not long after that first week, Shawn and Matt brought up the idea of adopting me. Even in such a brief time, the bond we formed was undeniable; I loved them just as deeply as they loved me. I instantly knew I had found my forever family and no longer desired independent living. I was finally where I belonged.

I cherish my family with all my heart, confident that we will always support one another. With the adoption scheduled for this spring, I couldn’t be more thrilled about this monumental and joyful change in my life.