A case worker was told she couldn’t adopt a foster girl. She waited 6 years to make it happen.
In a society where the foster system can often feel like a revolving door of temporary care, Leah Paskalides and Monyay's story is a profound reminder of the enduring power of persistence and love. Monyay, who entered the foster system at 11, faced the bleak reality of aging out without a permanent family. Yet, her caseworker, Leah, defied systemic limitations and waited patiently for six years to adopt Monyay as an adult, underscoring a transformative narrative of hope and belonging.
This heartening tale highlights the notion that family transcends age and legal definitions—it is a bond forged through unwavering commitment and love. Leah's decision to adopt Monyay after she aged out of the system not only provided her with a sense of security and belonging but also set a precedent for adult adoptions, demonstrating that it is never too late to find your family. Their journey from a professional relationship to a familial bond is a testament to the resilience and strength found in human connections.
Constructive analysis
The constructive-journalism lens: not just what happened, but what works.
- The problem
- The foster care system often leaves older children without permanent families, leading to significant challenges as they age out.
- The actions
- Leah Paskalides adopted Monyay as an adult, demonstrating a new pathway for creating lasting family bonds beyond traditional age limits.
- Evidence of progress
- The adoption was finalized in 2021, providing Monyay with a permanent family and showcasing the potential for adult adoptions.
- What we can learn
- Others can learn the importance of persistence in fostering relationships and the possibility of adult adoptions as a viable solution for aged-out foster youth.
PERMA profile of this story
How this story scores across the PERMA dimensions.
- Positive Emotion
- 9
- Engagement
- 8
- Relationships
- 10
- Meaning
- 9
- Accomplishment
- 8
Character strengths in play
Top VIA strengths this story embodies.
Perseverance
Leah had always wanted to adopt Monyay, but it was a conflict of interest with her work, yet she waited six years to make it happen.
Love
Leah wanted to make sure Monyay knew she had somebody who loved her and would have adopted her years ago.
Hope
Leah's action showed Monyay that 'it's never too late to find your family,' instilling hope in others in similar situations.
Try this today
Reflect on a relationship in your life that might benefit from renewed attention or support. Consider what small, consistent steps you could take to strengthen that bond, much like Leah did for Monyay over the years.