"Rainbow Babies" is the understanding that the beauty of a rainbow does not negate the ravages of the storm. When a rainbow appears, it doesn't mean the storm never happened or that the family is not still dealing with its aftermath. What it means is that something beautiful and full of light has appeared in the midst of the darkness and clouds. Storm clouds may still hover but the rainbow provides a counterbalance of color, energy and hope.
It seems only fitting that during Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month I share Tadd and Andrea's story. It's one that started with the storm clouds...
Our journey to grow our family has been a very long and hard road. Our hearts have always longed for children, and we always thought we would have a large family. Early on in our marriage, we suffered two miscarriages. Then, we found out we were pregnant with baby number three. Tragically, Andrea went into preterm labor at just 23 weeks and we lost our son, Cameron. We have been told any future pregnancy would be very high risk for both Andrea and baby. Although heartbroken, we began to feel God tugging on our hearts to pursue adoption. Andrea is adopted, and adoption has always had a very special place in her heart. Our journey to become parents has brought us to this beautiful road of adoption, and we can't wait to open our hearts and home to a precious little one.
Tadd and Andrea began working with me at Christian Adoption Consultants last winter. By May they were home study ready. At that point the journey had already been an emotional, tumultuous one. But their faith in God's plan for their family offered them hope.
And then the light started to appear. Just weeks after they were home study approved, they heard about an expectant mama looking for a family for her daughter. It was the first situation they felt drawn to and decided to present. Within days they were matched and making plans to meet this brave woman who would also become a sweet friend.
Without the rain, there would never be rainbows. Tadd and Andrea's arrived on August 26th. They welcomed their beautiful daughter Clara into the world and into their family through adoption.
Tadd and Andrea certainly don't see Clara as a replacement for their son, Cameron. He is still a loss they grieve and he will always hold a special place in their hearts. Cameron's little sister has been a beautiful gift.
And now they will be raising a rainbow.
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