January 2021
Reflections from this past year.
Picking up Jeffrey and Jessica from school and listening to the highlights of their day as we head home, fills my heart with gratitude and joy! As we get home they both rush to the gate to see who can open it first. I lift Tino, my six year old infant-like foster son who was born with microcephaly, out of his car seat and he gives me his big smile as we walk up the 24 stairs to my house. I feel so blessed to have this home that Tim Springer and his mission team built for me in 2011. They not only built it, but also supplied all the materials that would be home to my many foster children.
Five years ago when the social worker brought Tino to me, he was 22 months old, and wearing size 12 month clothes with little expectation to progress much. I had very little knowledge about microcephaly and started to research and ask doctors what to expect. He responded with such a happy smiles and giggles when we talked to him. I started taking him to physiotherapy after he turned two. At that time he was not able to roll over or sit by himself, but now, five years later he creeps and explores, sits on his own, and plays with his toys. One of his favorite past times is when someone reads to him. I am so blessed to see how Jeffrey and Jessica (also my foster children) love to spend time with Tino even though he cannot run and play like other six year olds. I have been so excited to see his progress, and reach his potential! He is such a delight to our family. I think back to my late husband and the call we felt to come to Belize and can’t help but think that he would be so proud of him! He also had a special place in his heart for those with special needs.
I ponder the level of care Tino will continue to require, and the care Denisha, who was severely brain damaged and passed away (2009) in my arms after 10 months of caring for her. Nothing thrills me quite like seeing these children able to live to their potential, and be able to be loved and cared for in comfort with hope.
I see doors opening and the dream of seeing a special needs children’s’ home becoming reality. Through connections with a local church we have been given first dibbs to purchase 5 acres, and have realized 4/5ths of it paid for. We are now seeking God’s wisdom in how to clear the property of squatters, so we can move forward and build our Casa de Shalom!!! God has been so faithful to provide, way beyond my wildest dreams! To Him be the glory!
