Adoption is more than welcoming a child into a forever family—it’s a transformative experience for everyone involved. Maybe it’s a parent bringing unique perspectives, resilience, and unconditional love to a new chapter. Maybe it’s siblings redefining what family means, navigating challenges, and discovering the strength of connection. Sometimes it means facing setbacks and heartbreak before finding the moment where everything feels right.
For Andrew and Hannah, adoption became a life-changing step for their (then) family of six. With four children already at home, they felt drawn to expand their family in a new way. Their path wasn’t easy—marked by emotional highs and lows, including moments of rejection. Yet their unwavering faith and hope brought them to Matthew—a bright, determined little boy from Colombia.
Their story is one of perseverance, love, and growth—not just in welcoming Matthew, but in embracing the challenges and joys that come with adoption. Andrew and Hannah’s experience reminds us that family isn’t defined by a smooth road but by the strength and commitment to walk it together, no matter where it leads.
Starting the Process
In November 2022, Andrew and Hannah felt their family was ready to grow through adoption—an avenue they had considered early on in their marriage. Hannah had long felt inspired to adopt, and as the idea took deeper root in their hearts, Andrew soon shared her conviction. After prayerful consideration, they decided to pursue international adoption and felt drawn to Colombia.
Hannah recalls, “Colombia seemed like the best fit.” Over the next two years, they worked closely with their caseworkers, Austyn and Misty, to navigate the intricate and emotional process. Despite the challenges, they leaned on their faith, their church community, and their supportive network of family and friends.
Navigating Setbacks
Colombia’s adoption program is well-structured, but the process requires persistence and patience. Prospective adoptive parents can apply to be matched with a specific child or wait for a recommendation. Andrew and Hannah experienced both avenues, submitting Letters of Intent (LOIs) for two children before being recommended a match: Matthew. (An LOI is a formal document expressing a family’s interest in adopting a specific child, including details about how they plan to meet the child’s needs.)
While the rejection of their first two LOIs was deeply challenging, Andrew and Hannah persisted. Reflecting on the journey, Hannah says,
“God’s timing was perfect for us. I’ll never know why some things happened, but I know Matthew was meant for our family.”
Next Stop: Colombia
In August 2024, Andrew and Hannah, along with their four children, traveled to Colombia for the five-week adoption finalization process. The in-country visit is an essential part of Colombian adoptions, allowing families to bond with their child and complete legal formalities.
For Andrew and Hannah, traveling to Colombia wasn’t just about finalizing their adoption; it was an opportunity to embrace Matthew’s culture and create lasting memories as a family. The vibrant community and unique traditions were all part of their experience. “Get out and experience as much as you can,” Andrew shared, reflecting on how stepping outside their hotel room helped them appreciate the beauty of Colombian culture, even amidst the challenges.
Their accommodations became a haven during their stay. Some hotels in Colombia cater to adoptive families by offering discounted rates. Naturally, a block of families all going through the adoption process at the same time turns into a micro-community of support during the in-country stay. Andrew and Hannah found themselves surrounded by other parents navigating similar paths. They bonded with families adopting teenagers and formed friendships that extended well beyond their time in Colombia.
Of course, the journey wasn’t without its hurdles. A local strike shut down major highways, creating delays and logistical hurdles. Yet, through every unexpected twist, Gladney’s team provided constant communication and support. “We never felt like we were on our own,” Andrew said, crediting the agency’s guidance for helping them stay grounded.
Bringing their four children along proved to be a meaningful decision. Matthew, though initially shy, quickly connected with his new siblings. “The way he interacted with our kids and called them by their names was really special,” Hannah recalled. Those moments, along with the memories they made in Colombia, solidified the initial bonds of their growing family.
For Andrew and Hannah, incorporating Matthew’s Colombian heritage into their family is a priority. They’ve discovered a rich Colombian and Latin community in their hometown complete with cultural events and regular celebrations. Their plans include learning Spanish, cooking traditional meals, and celebrating Colombian holidays.
Welcome Home, Matthew
Matthew’s adjustment to his new family came with unique challenges and joys. Meeting Hannah, a blonde-haired, light-eyed woman, was an adjustment for him. It may have very well been the first time he had ever seen someone who looked like her. Over time, as trust and love grew, he formed a deep bond with his parents and siblings. Hannah says, “One day, something just changed” and when they returned to the orphanage for their last visit before leaving Colombia, “he refused to leave my arms the entire time! He was very uncomfortable there and I knew then that he was ours and had bonded to us.”
It goes to show that the picture-perfect idealistic way some people view the adoption process isn’t always reality. Adoption is a huge adjustment—especially for such young kiddos who are experiencing an international and or transracial adoption. Bonding and trust take time to build. When reflecting on the peak of his adoption experience, Andrew shared a moment with Matthew that left the most profound, lasting impression:
“Being called dad for the first time.”
Matthew was born premature and diagnosed with cerebral palsy (CP), a neurological condition affecting movement, muscle tone, and posture.
Hannah shared, “It’s been so special to watch him grow and be a part of his journey.” Adopting children with special needs like CP requires preparation and a strong support system, but the rewards are immeasurable. Families considering this path are encouraged to consult with medical professionals, engage in training, and connect with communities with similar experiences.
Hopeful adoptive parents who are considering adopting a child with special needs don’t always get the luxury of a full understanding of their child’s needs until they meet them, bring them home, and begin parenting. When starting the adoption process, Andrew and Hannah were well aware that they needed to keep their expectations and their hearts wide open. Rather than speeding full-throttle into preparing for every possible scenario, they instead budgeted their time and energy into learning about Matthew and how to care for him—one day at a time.
Since coming home to his family, Matthew has begun weekly physical therapy sessions and regular doctor’s visits. In a very short time, Hannah and Andrew have seen so much positive growth in Matthew like sitting up on his own for longer periods of time and interacting with his siblings.
Reflections
When asked if they had any advice for people who are considering adopting, Andrew and Hannah emphasized the importance of patience and perseverance acknowledging how emotionally taxing the waiting process can be. Trusting in the process and leaning on a supportive network made all the difference for them during challenging times.
They also encourage families to make the most of in-country visits, not only to bond with their children but to explore and embrace the local culture. Andrew reflects on the value of staying present and flexible, finding joy even amid the unknowns.
For Hannah, faith played a central role in navigating the uncertainties of adoption. “Trust the Lord in His timing—there is so much of this that is out of your control,” she shared. By focusing on what they could do and surrendering the rest, Andrew and Hannah found strength and hope throughout their adoption experience.
Editor’s Note
Andrew and Hannah are a joy. During the brief time I had a glimpse into their home and family, it was clear how much love and support they share with one another and their children. Their home radiates happiness, and their kids are thriving in a nurturing environment. I wish them all the best in this next chapter of their journey.
Andrew and Hannah’s story is a testament to the power of love, faith, and resilience. Their journey to adopt Matthew has changed his life but enriched their family in immeasurable ways. For families considering adoption, their experience serves as a beautiful reminder of the joy and growth that comes from building a forever family.
