One in a MILLION!
This week we’re admiring the story of Andy, 54, from Brighton. He said…
Clicking an advert that popped up on my computer, it came at the perfect time. ISP Fostering – the UK’S first therapeutic foster agency.
Looking for way out of the stressful finance role I was in, I knew that I wanted to do something that could make a difference to someone, giving something back.
I found that the information resonated with me, so requesting a call back, I waited for the phone to ring.
Telling my partner, Ran, 49, all about what I had found, we looked at each other with a new excitement.
After 21 years together, we knew this is what we wanted.
And with Ran having a drama degree, encouraging a child with arts, as well as joining our little farm of two dogs, two cats and chickens, seemed like the perfect idea for our family.
Soon enough, we then had a lengthy chat, on the phone, with a lady about the realities of being foster parents.
But nothing could stop us – we were ready!
Being approved in December 2019, we found our 10-year-old foster daughter, Jessica*, just six short months later.
Due to Covid, we had to meet her for the very first time on video call.
Turning on the computer Ran and I were nervous, not knowing what to expect. Only, Jessica shocked us. She was so confident, controlling the situation, and she loved dogs, too.
The rest is history!
At first Jessica wouldn’t leave our side, not wanting to go in a room by herself.
Only, now she is a 12-year-old girl who loves to sing, go horse riding and has never missed a day of school!
She wants to get stuck in with absolutely everything.
Even her teachers have said she is a pure joy to teach, getting involved with cycling, running and samba clubs, too.
Growing up when being gay wasn’t accepted, we did worry that Jessica would receive backlash at school for having two dads.
Only, we were so wrong! None of her friends have batted an eyelid – it’s so refreshing to see.
When me and Ran tied the knot just over a year ago, Jesscia was a princess for the day – anyone would have thought it was her day!
We bought her a special tiara and glittery bracelet on the day to let her know how much she is loved by us all.
Jessica is our long-term placement, which means she will stay with us until she is at least 18.
We know that Jessica has a bright future ahead of her, and we will be there every step of the way.
We knew that we wanted this