May 14, 2020
Erin and his wife Lisa found themselves contemplating a life-changing decision. In this episode, Erin dives into their journey in becoming foster parents to two young children at a time in their lives they were finding a sense of normalcy within supporting a child with Williams Syndrome - a syndrome impacting both physical health and developmental aspects - as well as the challenges that come with becoming a new parent.
With the incredibly big hearts Erin and Lisa have, they chose to undoubtedly and unconditionally step forward as the “foster” parents to two children needing a loving home. The oldest of the two was close in age to their own son and they already had a relationship with him, as he was in the same classroom as their son. Upon saying yes to supporting him, they were made aware of his younger sister (under 1 year) needing a home as well. This decision changed the course of all of their lives; they became a cohesive family, knowing the challenges would be tough, but well worth the fight.
Erin and Lisa have found themselves advocating for Developmentally delayed foster youth, particularly those with more complex and challenging needs, as a result of their work. They have stepped forward in a way that is thought-provoking and often a foundation for change within our systemic structures. Having more providers like Erin and Lisa, our foster system would become a place where children would begin to thrive.