Oklahoma, CASA for Children, Inc.

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Stories of Hope - Maddie's New Life

Tuesday, Nov 9, 2021

Stories of Hope. Young Girl. 3 Year Old. Close Up. Thanksgiving. Pumpkin. Fall.

 

 

To the naked eye three-year-old Maddie* looks like your average toddler. She is happy, healthy, and full of life. But Maddie’s story is anything but average.

 

Maddie was born into a life of chaos. At just six-months-old, she was admitted to the hospital with a broken arm, clavicle bone, and multiple facial bruises. Seeing the significant abuse she had endured, the courts quickly intervened and removed Maddie from her mother’s home and placed her into the loving arms of her grandparents.

 

There were many challenges throughout Maddie’s case, but her CASA volunteer, Serrina, was there to support both Maddie and her grandparents through them all. 

 

Maddie’s family and CASA worked hard to get her mother to work towards her reunification goals with no success. Finally, after three years in foster care, Maddie was adopted by her grandparents. 

 

Even though it took three years to reach permanency, Maddie never suffered beyond her initial abuse. Her grandparents were loving and faithful throughout the case and her CASA volunteer was consistent in her love and advocacy. 

 

"We were so blessed with Serrina; the absolute best CASA volunteer,” said Maddie’s grandmother, Kathy. “She listened to me vent and cry and she tried with all her might to connect with our daughter. All three of us looked forward to Serrina’s visits! I am so thankful for CASA, and especially for Serrina. She definitely helped our family during a very difficult time. She has become a life long friend!”

 

Maddie’s life was not the only life changed by her journey. Serrina’s life was changed as well, “I was very fortunate to be the CASA for this case. Life long friendships and relationships were formed.”

 

Bridging the divide between foster care and adoption can be both challenging and rewarding. More CASA volunteers, like Serrina, are needed to advocate for children who enter the child welfare system; to help ensure they have the best opportunity to thrive. Will you help? Volunteer today!

 

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