Arthrogryposis Adoption

How You Can Bring Hope to 12 in 2012

2012-02-12T23:59:00.000-08:00

There are an estimated 147 million orphans worldwide, many with special needs, that do not have access to critical medical care or to a supportive loving family.

Before I had kids, I never gave a thought to adoption or what happens to the kids that get left behind. Then I had kids and I understood how important the love and support of a family can help a child. Then I had my son Owen who has arthrogryposis. More than ever I realized how critical access to therapies and excellent medical care is for special needs kiddos. I can only imagine what Owen's life would be like if he didn't have access from the day he was born to therapists, doctors and more.

I used to think that one person couldn't make a difference, that it wasn't worth trying. I quickly learned how wrong I was. I am lucky to be on a team of dedicated women who have adopted special needs children, advocate for special needs children and believe that one person will make a difference. And it all starts with the first step.

We have created a project called "Bring Hope to 12 in 2012." Our goal is to raise awareness and increase financial support for 12 orphaned children with arthrogryposis overseas (Eastern Europe and Asia Pacific). We plan to raise a minimum of $5,000 for each child featured on the Reece's Rainbow site. Once a month one child will be highlighted on this blog (http://arthrogryposisadoption.blogspot.com/). Each week we will post an update on our fundraising, answer questions from readers and ask for your help sharing the news.

The Three-Step Plan

Raise a minimum of $5,000 for each child featured from the Reece's Rainbow site.

Help connect one of the featured 12 children with his/her forever family

Crowdsource additional funds for families currently adopting an AMC child

How can you help?
Each month we are asking you to contribute $12 to support one child. It is a small amount (this could be a few trips to Starbucks, a lunch out, an iTunes album etc) that can make a big difference in the lives of these children. Can you contribute more? Absolutely. We want to set the goal within reason and let you decide what you can contribute. If you can commit to pledging just $12 for the remaining 11 months ($132 for the year!), we greatly appreciate your support.

Share our blog posts on your Facebook page, Twitter account, Google+, Instagram and YouTube channels. We will be posting some videos in the upcoming months and a simple share via social media can help us raise awareness and find a family. You can even add our badge to your Pinterest account under Causes You Support. One simple action can make a world of difference to 12 kids.

Each post and tweet will offer a quick link for you to donate and offer your support.

If you tweet, please reference the hashtag #bringhopeto12 and if you are inspired to write a blog post, please use the tag "bring hope to 12" and offer a link back to our site.

We will also be posting badges that you can add to your blog or Facebook profile to help raise awareness.

Why Get Involved?
You will make a difference by reading our post today and taking a minute to read about our featured child, Laurel. If we have inspired you, then please share this link with others.

2012 is the year of Hope, the year we saved 12 children.

Anastasia's family!

2012-02-11T19:53:00.000-08:00

Introducing the future Eva Claire and her Mama!

Many of us have loved this little girl so much and longed for her to find a family. Now one is committed to her. Will they be able to give her the therapy she needs? Well her new mom is an occupational therapist! In fact, that's how they met!

That's right, I said MET!

Go here to read the full story. It's a great read, and full of pictures! Then check out the other entries that will spoil you with even more pictures and *gasp* a video!

Go here to help donate towards their adoption.

Anastasia was a patient little girl. And I can't think of a better family!

Update on Victoria

2012-02-10T12:20:00.000-08:00

They found Igor in Victoria's institution according to an online source. According to another online source (which is a plea for beautiful Victoria) this place has been referred to as "infamously bad," but in other reports they are open to adoption and willing to get outside help. And luckily for Victoria and Igor that seems to be the case here. An organization called Life2Orphans has come in and helped the children in this place. Reports show that Victoria is up and about on her strong arms! A great sign! She's independent and nurturing too. She wants to be a little mommy. She's a doll!

There are a lot of pictures up of Victoria now. We were not given permission to show them all here, but you can go to this link and see them all! There are pictures of Victoria smiling, surrounded with toys, in a pretty dress, riding a big yellow car and showing off the biggest grin in the world while being held by a clown! I can imagine her one day in a loving family, with a beautiful head of hair!

Because of Life2Orphans, Victoria is getting attention, love, physical therapy, food and more! Click here to see their ministry. Note the first picture is of sweet Victoria!

All of the above information was pulled from public online sources, but if you are interested in Victoria please do your homework! A lot of what you find online is the best or the worst of a situation. You can always contact Reece's Rainbow here if you have questions. Mention you're interested in Victoria, born December 2002, in Orphanage 1.

We cannot say this of every child we advocate, but it's true of Victoria: She has huge potential for independence. She would bring a lot of joy to a family too.

If you're not Victoria's mommy, please help her by donating to her adoption here. Actually please share that link with everyone you know so we can find her mom. Thank you!

Update on Joshy (Igor)

2012-02-08T14:06:00.000-08:00

"Joshy"

<<<UPDATE 2/10/12>>> Joshy proved to be very much the gentleman. They found him! Not in the good institution we hoped, but he's found. His donation link is back up! Please consider helping him!

***

For those of you interested in/praying for/donating towards Joshy's adoption (I call him Joshy, since Igor is not his real name either), we have some sad news.

Reece's Rainbow does not currently know where Joshy is located. That means he has been removed from their website until they get more information. There's no way to donate towards his account or advocate for him at this point.

For those of you who heard he was at a good institution (since he had been transferred), that is no longer (or maybe never was) the case. He's lost.

He was to be the main focus in a fundraising and awareness campaign in a few days. Now we are scrambling and trying to regroup. Our new focus will be on Laurel, whose need of rescue is more desperate. (See my personal plea for Laurel here.)

My heart is broken. Many tears have been shed over this little boy and this horrible news. I know of two families who were interested in him, but still working some things out. Sometimes that hope gets us going. Now we're holding out hope that he's found.

Part of me wants to think that Laurel's adoption needs were so great that Joshy needed to hide for a little while so Laurel could be saved. I like to think of Joshy as a gentleman like that.

I have Joshy's picture from the link that is no longer active. There's nothing to click on and nothing left to say. So...

Dear God help us find him.

Meet Eric!

2012-02-08T13:42:00.000-08:00

18 months

3 years

The description from Eric's Reece's Rainbow page:

"Boy, born Dec 2008, Eric is a smiley little fellow who likes to feel his caretaker’s heartbeat or pulse, because it comforts him. He would be a wonderful little brother in a household of older children.

Eric has arthrogryposis and compensated hydrocephalus. He has had a surgical repair of spina bifada. Overall, he is healthy and would do well in a family without smaller children. His upper body is quite strong and he has full use of his hands, fingers and arms, but he has little control or movement in his lower limbs and they are significantly smaller than his upper body. He can squeeze very tightly with his hands, and reach a full arm’s length with no problems even though his resting position is the one you see in the pictures. He does not talk, according to the caretakers but does make sounds to communicate. Cognitively, he has significant delays due to his history of spina bifida and hydrocephalus. He is very much still an infant in many ways.

The picture in the orange shirt was taken at age 18 months, and the second picture was taken at 3 years old. He may have a sister a few years older in a different region who possibly could also be available for adoption or he could be adopted separately. She also has special needs."

From the description it seems AMC is the least of Eric's special needs. It may either be arthrogryposis or a similar condition--something that would require working with him to reach his full potential. Eric seems to have elbow contractures in both pictures, but he can reach a full arm's length which contractures would not allow him to do. In fact he seems more affected by the spina bifada and hydrocephalus than anything. Even though he has lots more functionality than maybe a severely affected arthrogryposis case, those still look like clubfeet to this Mama's eyes. That would require Ponseti serial casting if they were not correct already. But who knows based on a picture.

Eric really needs a family, and we are lucky to have him listed! Whereas AMC (as we've said over and over) is NOT a cognitive-impairing condition, a family interested in Eric would need to be aware of his significant cognitive delays.

You can go here to donate to his adoption!

Laurel

2012-02-02T21:05:00.000-08:00

This is Laurel!

Isn't her smile awesome?

She is 15 years old!

She has arthrogryposis in all limbs

She is an orphan and likely has been since birth

Can you Fathom that...15 years old and never having a family?!

Right now Laurel has something to smile about, even though she is an orphan in an Eastern European country she is in a good orphanage for older children with physical disabilities but.....

That will all change in just SIX short MONTHS....

Upon her 16th birthday in August...per her countries laws...she will be ineligible for adoption

Where will she go?!

She will likely go to an adult mental institution

An adult mental institution may mean very little food, no access to a toilet, no regular baths or dental care and confined to a bed...ALL day, EVERY day, for the REST of her life...

She needs to find a family ASAP!!!

Large Families and older parents are allowed to adopt in her country

Her family needs to be homestudy approved before committing

Please SHARE this! Publicity will increase the likelihood that her family will find her!

If you cannot adopt her you can donate to her Reece's Rainbow account the more money she has in the account the easier it will for her family to commit to her!

If you're wondering if adoption is right for you please read this!

If you need access to resources to learn about AMC or older child adoptions PLEASE let me know, I'll gladly connect you to the people who have "been there done that" please email me

If you're interested in adopting her PLEASE email Reece's Rainbow andrea@reecesrainbow.org ASAP!

And please SHARE this!

A new picture and an update on Alexis!

2012-01-29T22:47:00.000-08:00

Look at how Alexis has changed! But oh imagine how much better off she'd be in a loving family!

Alexis is almost 12 years old! Imagine being almost 12 years old and NEVER knowing the love of a Mom or Dad or siblings.

She has arthrogryposis in all limbs. She currently uses a wheelchair to get around but that could change if she had access to quality orthopedic care

Despite lack of treatment it sounds like she has adapted quite well to her AMC, she can feed herself and wheel her wheelchair on her own!

She's been described as social, funny, friendly, easy going and quick to laugh

SHE LONGS FOR A FAMILY!!!!!!!!!!!!!

She is in a very good institution but its still an institution and is not a replacement for a family

Could Alexis be YOUR daughter?!

We need to find her a family VERY soon, she is 11 years old after all!

Her Reece's Rainbow profile can be found here!

Large families and older parents can adopt her!

She is an Eastern European county

If you're interested in finding out more about Alexis and how to adopt her email Reece's Rainbow

Doyle has a family!

2012-01-29T22:36:00.000-08:00

This little guy has a family!!

Meet them here!!!

Meet Drake

2012-01-29T22:33:00.000-08:00

Meet Drake!!

He was just added to Reece's Rainbow!

He is born in 2008, so he around 3 years old

His Reece's Rainbow profile can be found here!

He has Freeman-Sheldon Syndrome (FSS), which is a form of arthrogryposis.

Kids with FSS have multiple joint contractures (arthrogryposis) plus other issues, like craniofacial abnormalities (mouth is stuck in a "whistling" position, which is why FSS is often called whistling face syndrome)

Drake is affected by the AMC in all limbs and does have facial issues listed

"Drake was diagnosed with Freeman-Sholden Syndrome at birth based on the following observations after delivery: the four extremities of the child were with difficult passive mobility, contractures on the elbow and knee joints, and the bottom extremities were in permanent abduction. Ulnar deviations of fingers of the upper extremities were present and characteristic crossing of the fingers and deformations of the feet. Spontaneous movements of the right hand are missing, difficult passive flexion in the elbow and wrist joints. X-rays of the right hand: doesn’t show changes in the covered bones and joints. Facial dismorphism is present in the child: small mouth with characteristic form, and furrowed chin."

Despite being in an orphanage likely since birth and being admitted to a hospital a lot in his first 3 years for bronchitis and pneumonia he is making great progress recently!!

"Drake was in the hospital several times during the first 3 years of his life for bronchitis and pneumonia. He is healthy now and his development has recently begun to improve in all areas. In the past 4 months, he has begun to grab toys, hold them and transfer them from hand to hand. He is now moving his legs and rolling over. When laying on his back, he scoots around, turns in circles and moves around his crib. He can stay upright when placed in a sitting position. He looks around and is very curious when placed sitting up or allowed to be out of his crib. He plays with toys and focus on them during play. He shows a preference for certain toys. He will knock blocks together to make noise when imitating staff members. He can mimic some of their actions with toys. He smiles and laughs out loud. He mimics the facial expressions of others. He pronounces sounds and combinations of sounds and can say a few words. He knows the names of some of the adults that work with him. He understands everything that is said to him. He follows verbal directions. He is beginning to eat food from a spoon. When he takes his food in a bottle, he holds the bottle independently to feed himself. He has recently begin making gains in all areas of his development."

He is an Eastern European County.

Single Moms, Large Families and older parents are all able to adopt him

He is three years old so this a GREAT time to get him home to a family where he can get adequate medical attention and most important LOVE!

Reece's Rainbow only has file for a short time so if your interested in adopting him inquire about him soon! Email Reece's Rainbow here!

Patrick's family are in country!

2012-01-24T14:21:00.000-08:00

"Patrick"

The Doloski family are in country meeting their son! Check out their blog here. Here's where their picture becomes a human being with his own personality and temperament. And in true AMC fashion he has a gift for technology. In his mom's words, "In the span of two short hours he: changed the wallpaper/background on my Android, took at least three dozen pictures between the Android and the camera, tried to send an e-mail to my friends Jim and Dorothy that contained the text "qwerty," set my phone up as a "wireless hot spot," and not only found Angry Birds Rio in my phone, but gave a very obvious cheer and fist pump when he did well." Oh my goodness!

Don't you just love to see these kids in families?! I love it!

Patrick is a year younger than Igor. I'd love to see Igor in family pictures and soon!

Igor

2012-01-15T19:58:00.000-08:00

This is Igor! Isn't he precious?!

He has been on Reece's Rainbow far, far, far, far too long.

He is SEVEN YEARS old, he was born November 26th, 2004

He has arthrogryposis. The description says only affecting his legs but I see contractures in his wrists and elbows but they look mild!

Can you imagine being SEVEN years old and NEVER, EVER having the love of a mother or father or siblings?

He was likely given up simply because his limbs are different and in his country of birth this the norm

His story just becomes sadder though.....he was transferred.....to an adult mental institution....a place where he will become BEDRIDDEN for life because he can't walk because he hasn't been given access to treatment.

Transferred to an adult mental institution means this harsh reality

He is an Eastern European Country

Despite being in an orphanage he is described as loving and affectionate!!

It is URGENT that he finds a family!!

The longer he is an the institution the more likely it is that he will change for the worse like Ksenia has

Even if you cannot be his family consider making a donation to his Reeces Rainbow Account!

The more money in his account the more likely it is that a family will commit to him and the less money they will have to come up with for his ransom.

An adoption from EE on average costs $20,000

He only has $95.00 in his account

If you would like to donate to his account please go here to donate!

If you think he could be your son but wonder what life after he is home will be like?!

Evan, Madeline, Aaron, Gerri, Cameron and Victoria all have arthrogryposis too and all were adopted from Reece's Rainbow and they have ALL blossomed and THRIVED in their new families!!

Evan who is affected A LOT like Igor is now WALKING unassisted!!

Read whats its like to adopt a child with arthrogryposis, especially if you're unfamiliar with the diagnosis

If you want to inquire about adopting Igor please contact Reece's Rainbow!

Even if you can't donate to his adoption or be his family PLEASE share this blog post! The more people who see this the better!!

Isn't he adorable!!??

2012-01-08T20:28:00.000-08:00

This little guy in waiting in C*hina for a forever family.

He just a little over 1 year old.

He healthy and cognitively on track

He has upper extremity arthrogryposis

He has been in physical therapy for 2 months

He is pulling to stand

Could he be your son?!?!?!

If you want to learn more about him see these blog posts: The gift of a home and still waiting

If you want to know more about how to adopt him click here (and then hit "contact me" to the right)

I have upper extremity arthrogryposis (as well as lower extremity) and my arms looked just like his does when I was born but I got immediate treatment in the form of occupational and physical therapy, stretching and splinting. I have had just a few surgeries on my upper extremities because I have adapted well to using my hands/ arms like they are. Despite the fact my hands are clubbed, my elbows no longer straighten out, my shoulders are severely limited and only 2 fingers and my thumb can truly flex I am able to cook, dress myself, bathe independently, I drive an unadapted car, I brush my own hair and teeth and I live 100% on own.

So you see this little guy has a TON of potential if given the opportunity to be a in family and has access to medical treatment!

Joel has a family!!!

2011-12-19T00:13:00.000-08:00

In the most exciting thing I've ever done on this blog, I have news to announce! Joel has a family! My family! Go see our blog here!

~Alexis

Meet Tayron (domestic adoption)

2011-11-16T06:15:00.001-08:00

Tayron is 11 years old and available for adoption domestically!

Tayron is an outgoing and friendly young man with a great sense of humor. He makes friends easily and enjoys the company of others. Tayron has a quick wit and he impresses everyone he meets with his great personality and positive attitude. When he is not watching sports, Tayron enjoys watching “Hannah Montana” and the Disney Channel. Tayron likes going on outings, especially shopping and sporting events. One of his favorite places to go is Dave & Busters because of all the televisions available to watch sporting events.

Tayron has been diagnosed with Arthrogryposis, a rare congenital disorder that is characterized by multiple joint contractures and can include muscle weakness and fibrosis. Tayron is confined to a wheelchair and does not have use of his arms and legs. Despite his illness Tayron is like every other boy as he enjoys watching sports, especially the Philadelphia Phillies. Tayron even had the opportunity to meet and get autographs from Ryan Howard and Jimmy Rollins, two players from the Phillies. In fact, Tayron’s room is filled with sports memorabilia.

All families will be considered for Tayron. He is legally free for adoption.

See Tayron's picture and profile here:

http://www.adoptuskids.org/_app/child/view.aspx?id=41775

Happy Adoption Awareness Month!

2011-11-07T12:43:00.000-08:00

To start out Adoption Awareness Month with some good news...

The word is out! Sandra's forever family found her! No news on the family yet, but we're excited to see her listed as found!

And "Patrick?" Well his name is now Joshua! And his mom and dad and brother and sisters are all excited! You can donate to his adoption here. His family just finished their dossier a little over a week ago and are waiting for permission to travel! Visit their family blog here!

Anastasia is just precious in this new picture we have of her! She's still waiting for a family. What they did to her hair is a crime! She is ready for pretty locks to match that pretty smile! Are you her mommy?

Joel is a darling little baby boy who needs a family. He just had his first birthday last month. Last we checked he had no interest from potential mommies, but he has had some interest in fundraising. He has over $3,000 in his account! That's enough to cover the cost of a Home Study--the first step in the adoption process! To help his fund grow, click here. To read a plea for Joel's life, click here. Are you his mommy?

There are more children with arthrogryposis who need families. Igor has been transferred! How horrifying! Leo has been listed for so long. Raymond has $0 in his account. We can fix that! And Victoria is so active despite having no walking therapy; she needs a family! Elizaveta was un-listed from Reece's Rainbow because they lost track of her whereabouts. And Laurel... 15 years old and still waiting for a family! I can't imagine. Alexis too! Eleven years old and still waiting. Gosh. And there's more.

But during Adoption Awareness Month we also want to point out the adorable children in wonderful families! Remember Madeline and Ethan (formerly Gabe)? They are in a wonderful family! Cameron (Jordan) found his forever family, and they continually pour out their happiness when they write about him. Then there is Andrei (Grady). He has a wonderful family! Do you remember that cute little baby Tasha? Well her name is Ember now and her family is wonderful! Little Victoria was not only adopted into a wonderful family, but her mom is the most hilarious blogger I know! And baby Henry (who kept his Reece's Rainbow name--love it!) is in a wonderful family! Then there is Bryson who has a wonderful family. And Evan's family! Just wonderful! (If you click on Evan's link you'll read the best blog post about arthrogryposis adoption ever!) And Sophie and Ben's family! Yes that's right, TWO kids with AMC! And Aaron's family! His mom yells from the rooftops about adoption! She directly led to Patrick finding his family! And look at all the family links on the right side of this blog! Wonderful!

Are these families wonderful? Yes. (Duh.) Are they special? Not really. They're normal, everyday people. What makes them wonderful is their willingness. That doesn't make them super human. But an everyday, messy, hum-drum family is one hundred times better than no family.

I hope Adoption Awareness Month is bringing you to this blog. I hope you are encouraged by the ones who found families, and will think about supporting the ones who are waiting. But I feel I can't end this post without mentioning those who wait and wait. Their only hope is adoption. They go to mental institutions even though arthrogryposis is not a mental condition! They languish! Please pick one child with AMC and just spread the word about him or her. Donate to their accounts! Send words of encouragement to their parents. Let's join forces and get these children home! They don't need a huge home, lots of money or a specifically-sized family! They don't need a home that is super organized and spotless! They don't need the best doctors or schools! They don't need parents who "have it all together!" They just need a home.

Adoption awareness month. Life saving month. Kids with arthrogryposis make the best aditions to families. Please spread the word!

give a child the gift of a FAMILY!

2011-11-06T07:28:00.000-08:00

ever think about photography?
wish you had a REALLY nice camera? wish you could take better pictures of your kids and grandkids and dogs and cats? wish you didnt have to spend so much to have such a nice camera? well guess what! YOU have a chance to donate just 20 dollars to help bring a little boy home from Serbia. and in doing so YOU GET A CHANCE TO WIN AN AWESOME CAMERA KIT!!! camera, lens, bag, and more! go to
http://myianna.blogspot.com/2011/11/nikon-d3100-camera-giveaway.html
and donate so YOU can have a chance to win a Nikon D3100! kids sell wrapping paper for schools, and you could spend 20 bucks easily on school and sports fundraisers. you could spend 20 bucks easily buying a fancy coffee every day. but you really have a special opportunity here to spend $20 to give a boy a LIFE! and you could win an awesome camera for doing so! well? what are you waiting for? get on over and donate! lets get this little boy a chance at a real future in a family filled with love, instead of a cold sterile insititution where no one will love him as their own. 20 dollars people. thats all it takes. donate and you could win a camera! but if you dont you still win because you helped give a child the gift of a family! THAT is priceless.

2011-10-11T18:32:00.000-07:00

Meet Laurel

She was born born August 1996. Did you read that....SHE IS FIFTEEN YEARS OLD!!!!!!! And has NEVER had a family!!!!!!! Imagine being 15 years old and never having someone love you like a mother/ father does (I would like to think she's experienced some sort of love from some caregiver in 15 years bc my heart just can't take that the thought of her never experiencing love)

She has all extremity arthrogryposis — and look at that beautiful smile! Im guessing w/ aggressive treatment (a lot of it surgical because she is older) she has the potential to ambulate.

She's already 15 years old which likely means she will become UNADOPTABLE at sixteen which is less then a year away! I'm guessing if she is not adopted she'll spend the rest of her life in an institution.

SHE IS ELIGIBLE FOR AN OLDER CHILD GRANT

Is she YOUR daughter!!!

Here Reece's Rainbow Profile can be found here: http://reecesrainbow.org/laurel

Jack Needs a Family (Urgent!)

2011-10-02T22:29:00.000-07:00

This message is from Kids To Adopt that originally posted on September 27th: "URGENT! Jack needs a family by next month or he will not have an opportunity for adoption - ever! We have a $5,000 grant available for him. Please contact our office if you are interested in info on this sweetie!"

Jack is seven years old and has arthrogryposis in his lowers only. He is fun! I would love to see him with straight legs and casted feet, walking around! Please inquire with the agency for more information.

UPDATE: I copied and pasted the information below straight from Kids To Adopt's website. Jack is from Russia and needs a family before moving to the institution! It's worse than I thought. Please help share his story!

Jack’s Story

Jack was born in November of 2004. He was born at 34 weeks weighing 4.4 pounds. His mother did not receive prenatal care. Jack is a cheery young boy with a sweet smile.

Disabilities

He has many disabilities including arthogryposis of the lower extremities, hernias, hip joint dysplasia, scholiosis and hemangiomas to name a few. This little guy’s legs are stuck in a criss-cross position but that doesn’t stop him from getting around using his upper body which is very strong. Jack is very small and will continue to stay small for his age. At 5 years 2 months he was only 26 ½ inches tall and weighed 22.2 pounds. We are not sure that they are measuring his legs in his height. Since he can’t straighten them, getting a realistic measurement on him is pretty much impossible. We have excellent developmental information. Jack has very good upper body dexterity.

His future is grim without a family.

Jack will never have the chance to get an education or the medical care he needs where they plan to move him. He will never get released from the institution so, this will be his life sentence! This special boy needs a family with a huge heart and a wheelchair accessible home so he can learn how to be independent. A family adopting Jack must have access to good medical care or a Shriner’s Hospital because Jack will definitely need some medical intervention when he comes home.
Contact us today if you are interested in adopting this sweet boy!

Click here to go straight to his page. Email Katie if you are interested! katie@kidstoadopt.org

Two Little Ones Available Through Holt International

2011-09-30T17:33:00.000-07:00

There are two little kids with arthrogryposis available through Holt International.

The first is a little two-year old girl with what looks to me like amyoplasia, the most common form of arthrogryposis. She's affected in all four of her limbs. Apparently her family was not able to care for her and she was left in hospital care for over a year. Now she's a bit delayed in language, but can catch up once in a family environment. Her legs are in a good position for walking since they have the straight-leg contractures instead of the bent-leg contractures. She is said to be always smiling and always in a good mood. Click here to see two pictures and a short bio. (Child believed to be in Thailand. Unconfirmed.)

The second is a little five-year old boy with arthrogryposis affecting just his lower extremities (hips, legs and feet). The good news is that he received Ponseti casting for his club feet which is the best method. His first surgery was when he was six months old (probably the tendon release following casting?), and according to his bio he's had several surgeries. He is very advanced in his self-care including feeding himself, changing his clothes and going potty. Plus he is even walking a bit! Click here to see his bio. (Child in China.)

Anastasia - More Information!

2011-09-25T14:19:00.000-07:00

The following paragraph was copied and pasted from Anastasia's RR page.

From one of our adoptive families who met her in September 2011: "The great news is that she does have rotation in her shoulders and some in her hips and also they say she does NOT have hydrocephalus! Her heart condition is basically that she's not active enough – her heart-rate isn't stimulated often. She had a brain scan that showed she is normal except for enlarged ventricles in the brain, which they did not feel should affect the function of her brain. She is very weak, though. She cannot sit on her own and they said she could hold her head up but when I held her her poor little neck could hardly stay up (I'm sure that would change with some p/t). They handed her right to my husband – a big guy – which frightened her, poor little Anastasia! They told us she liked music so I took her and sang to her and she calmed a bit but then still wanted her nanny. I can't tell you how much we truly WANTED so badly to take her home with us! She is just precious! But she has never been out of that room and will really need a family who is experienced with institutionalization challenges, and to help Anastasia LIKE the world around her!"

The great news you can take away from this report is that her brain is so much better off than her scary and vague diagnosis of "Other Specified Disorder of the Brain" would lead you to believe! No hydrocephalus, no permanent brain damage and no signs of FAS! This little one's biggest issue is being in an institution! Being in a loving family would eliminate many of her current challenges! What excellent news!

The hard part will be initial bonding and bringing her home. She'll need at least one parent who can be with her constantly at first while she learns to trust her new situation and slowly explore her world. Most Home Studies (the first step in adoption) will offer or require classes on helping children from institutionalized settings. There is much hope for Anastasia!

As far as her arthrogryposis, the weakness sounds like par for the course, as most kids with AMC have muscle weakness. Anastasia has never had any intervention that we know of so she'll be starting from the beginning. Of course she's only a little over two years old and there is still time for intervention to have a huge impact. Her muscles can be strengthened, and often naturally are throughout a normal day once she's removed from a crib in an institution setting. Remember kids in institutions do not have toys to play with or everyday stimulus that other children receive. I'd love to see this girl with a ball! A little time in a loving home with one ball will be what her core muscles need to hold that head up high!

Based on this new information there is no reason to believe that Anastasia would not one day be independent in her daily activities with good physical therapy and a loving home. If her shoulders are not externally rotated (if I'm reading that right) then physical and occupational therapy on her upper body will also be easier, and her range of motion may be greater. I hope a family finds her soon!

Update on Anastasia

2011-09-18T13:09:00.000-07:00

Anastasia has been re-listed for adoption. The family that had committed to her found out only a few days later that their son is going to have more special needs than they originally thought. So after a heart-wrenching decision, Anastasia has been put back up for adoption. And Reece's Rainbow has moved her picture up closer to the top of the listing so interested families are more likely to see her. She also has quite a chunk of change in her fund due to the interest! You can donate towards her adoption by clicking this link: Anastasia.

From the family: "Please pray and advocate for precious little Anastasia - I have a lot to write about her and I hope her family will come soon as there is so much hope for her!"

We look forward to learning more about Anastasia since any new information about these kids always comes from other parents adopting out of these orphanages! Stay tuned!

Henry's HOME!

2011-09-16T16:39:00.001-07:00

Henry and his Family arrived in the states last week!

Go see the picture of Henry w/ his Momma and his siblings: http://bringinghenryhome.blogspot.com/2011/09/home.html

Anastasia Has a Family!!!

2011-09-14T18:17:00.000-07:00

This little love waited a long time for a family! The Center family committed to a little boy named "Wallace" (soon to be Zephaniah), but Anastasia, who was in Wallace's orphanage, felt like she belonged in their family too. They asked parents (who gushed) and Dr. van Bosse (who shared his vast knowledge) about arthrogryposis, and then decided to commit to her too! Right now the family is in country! Her mom says, "We meet her in 2 days - we hope to be home with her in a few weeks!" Exciting news!

They need our help! Please go here to donate to Anastasia's (and Wallace's) adoption. Every penny counts!

And click here to visit the Center family's blog.

New picture of Sandra

2011-09-09T17:28:00.000-07:00

A new picture of Sandra and information has been posted!!

DOB: 2006
Diagnosis: Arthrogryposis

At birth, Sandra’s arms were in abduction, internal rotation with fixed flexion in the wrist joints. Her legs were in abduction – fixed in the coxofemoral joints, flexion of the knee joints and various situations of the legs. The Achilles tendons of both legs were elongated in 2009. She had one other surgery in 2010. She has been under the continued care of an orthopedic doctor.

This description and the picture leads me to believe she has the classic form of arthrogryposis, called amyoplasia, which means "generalized lack of muscle development" It sounds like and looks like her clubfeet have been corrected with casting and/ or surgery (but they may require more treatment once she's home)

Sandra can sit with support and sit up on her knees independently. She crawls in her own adaptive way. She can stand up with support and move in a walker. She uses her hands like “tongs”, by crossing her wrists. She is able to pick up toys and other objects in this way. She can move all of her fingers simultaneously.

It sounds like her potential for independent ambulation is huge considering that w/ very little treatment she is already knee standing, crawling and stand w/ assistance! The way they describe how she uses her hands is very typical for kids w/ amyoplasia. Splinting, stretching and surgery will likely improve the positioning of her arms enabling her to be more independent.

Sandra can talk and is described as “very communicative and inquisitive”. She is cognitively normal, and she understands everything that is said to her. She easily makes contact with strangers and is attached to those who care for her. She is the leader in her group.

Could she be your daughter?

http://reecesrainbow.org/sandra

Meet Timothy!

2011-09-05T21:34:00.000-07:00

Look at this adorable little guy!!

He has arthrogryposis in all limbs but only his feet are affected in his legs and he has limited range of motion in his arms.

Although he has a diagnosis of arthrogryposis he is a VERY independent six-year old.

He is from China.

If you're interested in reading more about Timothy or inquiring about adopting him please click here: http://www.anorphanswish.org/whos-who-wednesday-timothy-waiting-for-a-family

Henry meets his family!

2011-08-21T08:06:00.000-07:00

Remember Henry? Well his family just met him for the first time! And they posted new pictures!

He is so little (about the size of a newborn) so they look forward to "fattening him up a bit."

From his mom, Carla, "He is beautiful and I am in love."

Baby and Daddy!

They could still use our support! Right now Henry is struggling with bronchitis, and they are hoping he's released back to the orphanage so they can spend more time with him. They are also not 100% of the way done fundraising. To help, please visit their blog: Bringing Henry Home!

A New Picture of Ria

2011-08-16T21:27:00.001-07:00

http://reecesrainbow.org/ria-25-4

Meet Sandra

2011-08-16T21:12:00.000-07:00

Meet Sandra!!!!!!

Isn't she adorable!!

She sounds like she has received STELLAR care thus far considering she is an orphan!

DOB: 2006
Diagnosis: Arthrogryposis

Sandra has had surgeries on both Achilles Tendons to straighten her feet. She has braces for her hands. She is under the care of an orthopedic doctor, receives physical therapy, gymnastics and massage therapy. Sandra can sit with support, crawl, and sit unassisted on her knees. She can reach for a toy and manipulate them. She can move around in a walker.

Sandra is described as "very talkative and inquisitive". She is alert, makes eye contact and is active.

He profile on Reece's Rainbow can be found here: http://reecesrainbow.org/sandra

If you think Sandra could be your daughter please contact: Reece's Rainbow

Meet Patrick's Family!!

2011-08-04T20:40:00.000-07:00

http://www.doloski.blogspot.com/

Meet Ria

2011-07-30T01:21:00.000-07:00

This is Ria, the queen of saying "cheese!" Just imagine this beauty with long, flowing hair! Ria is six years old, born April 2005, and available for an older child grant. She has arthrogryposis with no other stated diagnoses. (They put her condition as "congenital mutiple arthrogryposis," but that is just arthrogryposis, aka joint contractures.) Her description on Reece's Rainbow identifies her joint contractures as being in her shoulders, knees, ankles and wrists. So perhaps her elbows, fingers, etc. are not affected at all. She can stand, walk with assistance, grab objects, throw objects and go from sitting to standing without assistance! She could be a role model for some of these kids with arthrogryposis still learning to do those things! Ria is described as social, smart, self-sufficient, independent, musical and well-spoken. She would make an excellent addition to any family!

Meet Raymond

2011-07-29T23:32:00.000-07:00

This is Raymond! This birthday boy just turned four this month (July), and he needs a family to give him a party hat and some cute glasses to make him the most adorable four-year-old ever! Raymond is in the same orphanage with Igor. His hands and wrists look good so they *may* not be affected, or at least not require a lot of intervention. As far as his lower extremities, with some Ponseti casting and physical therapy he's in a good position for walking and standing!

Besides arthrogryposis, Raymond also has optic atrophy (mild or severe vision loss, and possible trouble with colors) and he's cross-eyed. For support for optic atrophy go here.

If you can envision this little man with the cute glasses in your family (available to large families too!) please contact Reece's Rainbow.

Patrick has a family!!!!!!

2011-07-28T22:10:00.000-07:00

Patrick has a family already!!!!!!!

http://reecesrainbow.org/category/rescued

Meet Patrick

2011-07-23T19:50:00.001-07:00

Patrick was NOT abandon at birth like most infants w/ AMC are in his country. Please go read Julia's Blog post to read Patricks sad, sad story and why he is now available for adoption.

If you think this sweet face could be your son please go here to learn more about Patrick.

Almost 16 year old girl!

2011-07-12T21:36:00.000-07:00

Remember the almost 16-yr old girl w/ AMC who needed a family to commit to adopting her from EE w/ in 7 days? Well someone DID!!!! They have until Thursday to get the paperwork into our government PLEASE send prayers and positive thoughts their way that everything falls into place!

http://jerdebwalker.blogspot.com/2011/07/olya-process-update.html

Ethan, Victoria and Ember are HOME

2011-07-12T21:30:00.000-07:00

Welcome Home Ember!!

http://addingasenti.blogspot.com/2011/06/home.html

Welcome Home Victoria!!!

http://wronginalltherightways-travcat.blogspot.com/2011/07/messy.html

And she is doing great at home she has gained THREE pounds!! http://wronginalltherightways-travcat.blogspot.com/2011/07/my-reminder-to-remember.html

Welcome Home Ethan!!!

http://hebrewselevevone.blogspot.com/2011/07/happy-all-day.html

15 yr old girl needs a family to commit in the next SEVEN days!!!

2011-07-05T03:09:00.000-07:00

Please help! A girl with AMC needs to find her family in the next SEVEN days before she ages out and is sent to an institution! She is very independent in activities of daily living! Please share this! The more exposure she gets the more likely she'll find her family!!!

http://jerdebwalker.blogspot.com/2011/07/sentenced-for-life.html

Victoria Ferrone

2011-06-29T23:04:00.000-07:00

PLEASE go read these 5 blog posts and help if you can!!

http://carringtonscourage.blogspot.com/2011/06/prayer-warriors-needed-asap.html

http://carringtonscourage.blogspot.com/2011/06/friends-for-ferrone-family.html

http://carringtonscourage.blogspot.com/2011/06/ferronne-family-update.html

http://carringtonscourage.blogspot.com/2011/06/victoria-ferronne.html

http://carringtonscourage.blogspot.com/2011/06/latest-on-victoria.html

They Passed Court

2011-06-14T23:04:00.001-07:00

All three families who are in Eastern Europe over the past month have past court!!! They're all in there 10-day waiting period and then they'll start the paper chase so they can spring the kids from the orphanages and catch a flight back to the US!

Meet Victoria Rita
http://wronginalltherightways-travcat.blogspot.com/2011/05/two-less.html

Meet Ember Grace Senti
http://addingasenti.blogspot.com/2011/06/hi-all-well-we-had-court-yesterday.html

Meet Ethan Ruslan DeVowe
http://hebrewselevevone.blogspot.com/2011/06/ethan-ruslan-devowe.html

2011-06-12T00:28:00.000-07:00

2011-06-11T21:42:00.001-07:00

A generous person has offered to match every donation made to baby Joel's (his RR profile: tinyurl.com/4z9h4qe) adopting fund up to $2000!! & if we get to $2000 by the 13th the donor will throw in another $500! So even if you only have $5 PLEASE give bc it will $10! Joel is only 8 mons old! The more $$ in his account the more likely he'll be adopted! & we all no the sooner treatment for AMC starts the better! PLEASE SHARE THIS!!!!

Donate Here: tinyurl.com/4z9h4qe

Here is the blog post with more details! http://www.laeliasky.com/2011/06/09/my-thats-generous/

Understanding Arthrogryposis

2011-06-06T19:21:00.000-07:00

This video gives a superb and easy to understand explanation of what arthrogryposis is.

http://vimeo.com/24626314

Its an interview of Dr. Harold van Bosse from Shriners Hospitals for Children in Philadelphia, PA. He specializes in arthrogryposis and treats many of the former Reece's Rainbow kids who have AMC.

This video was done by Margarget Chaidez. She is making a documentary about AMC called The Sweetest Gift: Living with Arthrogryposis

Arthrogryposis Awareness Day is June 30th!! Wear blue that day!

They met their families!!

2011-06-06T19:10:00.000-07:00

The three kiddos who I talked about in the previous have all met their families!!

Moira meets her Mom and Dad!

http://wronginalltherightways-travcat.blogspot.com/2011/05/chosen-ones.html

Please say a few extra prayers for Moira she shows very little emotion because of the conditions she has endured in the orphanage.

Ember meets her Mom and Dad!

http://addingasenti.blogspot.com/2011/05/big-day.html

Ethan (Gage) meets his Mom and Dad!

http://hebrewselevevone.blogspot.com/2011/06/celebration-day.html

Rainbow Kids

2011-05-04T15:43:00.000-07:00

Rainbow Kids has a special needs section which can be found here!

They have about eight kids with Arthrogryposis (or other similar joint disorders) listed.

Here is their section on Arthrogryposis: http://specialneedsadoption.rainbowkids.com/Arthrogryposis_-_Joint_Disorders.aspx

Click "waiting children with Arthrogryposis" on that page and you'll be taken to their listings. You have to register and login before you'll able to see the listings

3 families Traveling in May!!!

2011-05-04T15:21:00.000-07:00

Three families who are adopting kids with various forms of Arthrogryposis are traveling to meet their kids in May!

First up is the Ferrone's! Appointment on May 17th!

They're adopting this sweety and another little girl with a different diagnosis

You can follow their journey here: www.wronginalltherightways-travcat.blogspot.com

Then The Senti's appointment is May 24th!

They're adopting this cutie pie!

You can follow their journey here: http://addingasenti.blogspot.com/

And last but not least is the DeVowe Family! Their appointment is May 30th

They're adopting this handsome young man!

You can follow their journey here: http://www.hebrewselevevone.blogspot.com/

The Ferrone Family

2011-05-03T15:42:00.000-07:00

The Ferrone Family are adopting these two cutie from Eastern Europe! Moira has Arthrogryposis. They leave in less then TWO weeks!!!

Moira

Nastya

They could really use your help to fund the rest of this adoption. They still need a good deal of money before they leave to go meet the girls!

Click here for their Family Sponsorship Page on Reece's Rainbow!!!

Remember no amount is too small!!!!!!!

Meet Alexis

2011-04-11T21:13:00.001-07:00

This is Alexis!

Isn't she GORGEOUS!??

She is ELEVEN years old!

She needs a family ASAP! And she REALLY wants one too!

She is eligible to be adopted by LARGE FAMILIES and OLDER PARENTS (up to age 55)

She has Arthrogryposis in all four limbs and mild mental retardation is listed too (AMC and mental retardation are *not* diagnoses that co-exist very often so I am hoping this diagnosis is more a result of being in an institution likely since birth)

Thankfully she is an institution where is loved and has access to an outside aide organization but this is NOT a substitue for a family!!

Ohh someone please go adopt her! She reminds me of a little girl I met in the waiting room at Shriners Philadelphia, she too was eleven, has AMC and had been adopted from China.

Her Reeces Rainbow profile can be viewed here: http://reecesrainbow.org/alexis3905

If you think Alexis would be a great addition to your family contact Reeces Rainbow!

Meet Henry's Family

2011-03-14T16:05:00.001-07:00

Meet Henry's Forever Family!!!!!

http://reecesrainbow.org/sponsordobrovits

Giveaways!

2011-03-12T22:19:00.000-08:00

Two Families who are adopting little girls with Arthrogryposis are doing giveaways to raise the much need funds to get their daughters home!

International adoptions are very, very expensive. Ranging from $15,000-$35,000 for 1 adoption of 1 or 2 kids.

Most families do not have this kind of money just sitting around so they have to fundraise for the money and apply for grants and save ever penny to fund the adoptions.

If these families didn't step out in faith these little girls would likely end up being transferred to mental institutions in a couple of short years where they would very likely die of neglect, starvation or an illness brought on by the extremely poor environments.

The Senti's are adopting Ember (formerly Tasha) and they are giving away two necklaces. For every $5 donated your name will be entered into the drawing! This giveaway ends on March 31st.

Go here to read about how to enter this giveaway!! http://addingasenti.blogspot.com/2011/03/necklace-and-bracelet-giveaway.html

The Ferrone's are adopting Moira and Nastya (Nastya has Apert Syndrome) and they're giving away a DIAMOND RING, a necklace and a set of earrings. By donating $5 you'll be entered into the drawing (or $20 will get you 5 enteries!), by donating a $1 you'll be entered into the drawing for either the necklace or the earrings!

Go here to read about how to enter this giveaway!! http://wronginalltherightways-travcat.blogspot.com/2011/03/give-it-away-now.html

So even if don't have much to give, every little bit helps (YES even a single dollar!!) to get these two precious little girls home, where they will be loved and cherished and have access to medical care and by donating through these giveaways you could win something too!!

Meet Joel!!!

2011-03-12T21:36:00.000-08:00

This cutie is just 5 months old! This is the PERFECT time to get started on that paperwork so that he could be home by a year old if not sooner! He has Arthrogryposis (I'm assuming all limbs as it doesn't say otherwise), convulsive disorder, hypotrophy, capillary hemangioma of the right cheek and back region. I am guessing by looking at his hands he has the most common form of Arthrogryposis, called Amyoplasia. Amyoplasia is a non-genetic form of Arthrogryposis (many forms of AMC are genetic) Arthrogryposis is very treatable and babies respond to therapy the best during the first year of life, so the sooner he is home the easier treatment will likely be!!

MORE PICTURES AVAILABLE!!!!!!

His Reece's Rainbow Profile can be viewed here: http://reecesrainbow.org/joel2501

If you think little Joel is your son please contact Reese's Rainbow to inquire about Joel and if you meet the qualifications to adopt from Joel's country!!!

Henry has a Family!!!!!!!!

2011-03-04T12:00:00.000-08:00

This little guy's forever family found him!!!!

http://reecesrainbow.org/category/rescued

if you're able go donate to his adoption fund here: http://reecesrainbow.org/henry-41

Meet Moira's Family

2011-02-26T15:28:00.000-08:00

http://reecesrainbow.org/sponsorferrone

Moira has a family!!!!!!!!!!!

2011-02-21T18:17:00.000-08:00

Moira has a family!!!!!!!!!!!

http://reecesrainbow.org/category/rescued

Meet Mercy

2011-02-21T18:08:00.000-08:00

Mercy is a year and half and has spina bifida and joint contractures of her lower limbs (which makes it likely that she has a secondary diagnosis of Arthrogryposis). Her joint contractures certainly affect her hips as they're dislocated and she has what appears to be a clubfoot on the right and probably a vertical talus deformity on her left. Her knees also look affected to me but it could be how she is holding them.

From her medical records: Myelocele of lumbosacral part of spinal cord (spina bifida, had surgery); flail legs; optic nerve atrophy; congenital hips dislocation, clubbed feet.

Her Profile can be found here: http://reecesrainbow.org/mercy-48

If you are not in a position to adopt please consider a donation to her grant fund (click on her profile above and click donate, be sure to specify the $$ is for her!) She currently has ZERO in her account! It costs around $20,000 to complete an international adoption. Many families want to adopt and are more then able to raise special children like Mercy but they simply cannot afford the upfront cost of $20,000+ to get them home. So every penny helps!

If you think Mercy could be your daughter please contact Reece's Rainbow!

Meet Anastasia (4)!

2011-02-21T17:36:00.000-08:00

Anastasia is just a little over 18 months old. She was born in June 2009. She has a happy disposition (which is evident in her picture!) and will blossom in a family.

If she is not adopted SHE WILL REMAIN BEDRIDDEN FOR LIFE!

She badly needs physical and occupational therapies and possibly serial casting and surgery.

Her diagnoses include: Arthrogryposis (I'm assuming all limbs because it doesn't state otherwise), bilateral (both) dislocation of her hips (this is part of AMC), hydrocephalus, unspecified heart condition, unspecified iron deficiency anemia and Retarded development following protein-energy malnutrition.

Please don't this list of diagnoses scare you away from making this beautiful little girl apart of your family. Most if not all of her medical conditions are treatable and her quality of life will be good w/ treatment!

Her Reece's Rainbow Profile can be found here: http://reecesrainbow.org/anastasia-4

If you are not in a position to adopt please consider a donation to her grant fund (click on her profile above and click donate, be sure to specify the $$ is for her!) She currently has $1329 in her account! It costs around $20,000 to complete an international adoption. Many families want to adopt and are more then able to raise special children like Anastasia but they simply cannot afford the upfront cost of $20,000+ to get them home. So every penny helps!

If she is your daughter please contact Reece's Rainbow for more info on Anastasia and the adoption process!

Meet Doyle!

2011-02-21T17:23:00.000-08:00

Doyle is a two and a half little boy with webbed and fused fingers and hands. This may be a form of Arthrogryposis but considering there are 400 types of AMC I am not sure which type it would be and its possible his diagnosis is not at all under the umbrella of AMC but none the less he needs a family to call his own! I have met plenty of kids w/ webbed/ fused finger at Shriners and hand surgeons are very gifted in doing surgery on these kiddos. Although I suspect many kids learn to function beautifully with their hands as they are.

There are more photos available of Doyle!

From one of our adoptive families who visited with him in February 2011: "Doyle is precious, loves attention, very smart, loves piano and type of music. He has a smile that will melt your heart. Even though he only has a few fingers on his right hand he still grabs and holds things. He walks. Lovely Lovely child! "

If you are not in a position to adopt please consider a donation to his grant fund (click on her profile below and click donate, be sure to specify the $$ is for him!) She currently has $18 in his account! It costs around $20,000 to complete an international adoption. Many families want to adopt and are more then able to raise special children like Doyle but they simply cannot afford the upfront cost of $20,000+ to get them home. So every penny helps!

His Reece's Rainbow Profile can be found here: http://reecesrainbow.org/doyle-31

If you think Doyle could be your son contact Reece's Rainbow!

Meet Gage's Family!

2011-02-12T00:53:00.001-08:00

http://hebrewselevevone.blogspot.com/2011/02/here-lord-i-give-myself-away.html#comments

and I'm sure they'd appreciate any donations you are able to give towards the cost of Gage's adoption! Here is their Reece's Rainbow Family Sponsorship page!

Gage has a new family!!!!

2011-02-06T16:15:00.000-08:00

Yayyy!!!!! Gage has a new family already!!!!!

http://reecesrainbow.org/category/rescued

Gage has lost his Family

2011-02-02T18:08:00.000-08:00

Gage had a family committed to adopt him but due to circumstances beyond their control they can't bring him home (trust me that decision was not made lightly!) and he needs a new family to commit to him ASAP. Gage is 5 years old and an orphan in Eastern Europe. He likely has Caudal Regression Syndrome which has causes his lower limbs to have joint contractures.

If you think you could be Gage's Family please contact Reese's Rainbow ASAP!

Here is Gage's RR profile! http://reecesrainbow.org/gage-31

Grady & Madeline are HOME

2011-01-25T05:27:00.000-08:00

Grady (aka Andrei) came home: http://hebrewselevevone.blogspot.com/2011/01/happy-homecoming.html

As did Madeline http://hebrewselevevone.blogspot.com/2011/01/happy-homecoming.html

A little girl in Taiwan

2010-12-30T04:19:00.000-08:00

A 17-month old little girl with AMC and a cleft palate is available for adoption in Taiwan. She is doing very well! For more information and pictures please contact Childofmyheart@aol.com

Look who met his family!!!!!

2010-12-29T16:38:00.001-08:00

http://adoptinggrady.blogspot.com/

Meet Cadence!

2010-12-29T16:32:00.000-08:00

Meet Cadence

She was born in June 2009

She has Arthrogryposis and a Cleft Palate

Further Information and PICTURES available through her agency: Contact Stephanie at Lifeline adoptions: Stephanie.Carpenter@Lifelineadoption.org

Reeces Rainbow profile can be found here

Look who met her family!!!!!

2010-12-17T12:35:00.001-08:00

http://hebrewselevevone.blogspot.com/2010/12/its-sunny-day-smiling-at-her-papa-mama.html

Meet Henry

2010-12-17T12:26:00.001-08:00

Meet Henry!!!

(more pictures available)

He will be just 5 months old on Christmas Eve.

He is available for adoption immediately

He has Arthrogryposis and a cleft palate.

His legs and feet are definitely affected by the AMC, his arms/ hands may or may not be affected

He can be adopted with other children in his orphanage.

Now is the PEFECT time to go rescue this baby boy because therapy and casting is most effective in infancy!

He has ZERO in his adoption fund through Reece's Rainbow

To learn more about Henry and to donate to his adoption fund click here

Meet Tasha's Family!!!

2010-12-16T19:29:00.000-08:00

Meet Tasha's Family

http://reecesrainbow.org/sponsorsenti

Tasha has a Family!!!!!!!

2010-12-03T10:51:00.000-08:00

Tasha has a family!!!!!

http://reecesrainbow.org/category/rescued

Meet Perry!

2010-11-30T08:09:00.001-08:00

He will be TEN YEARS old on Dec 2, 2010

He is walking and can run but has gait abnormailities and he can even balance on one leg

He Sounds AMAZING!

"He is left handed and can feed himself and perform other self-help skills. He can draw and trace and is learning to write. At this time, he can write his name when looking at a model. The staff believes that he is capable of learning to write independently, he just needs more opportunities to learn. His communication skills are very good. He speaks in sentences, can answer questions and communicates his thoughts clearly. He can recite all the days of the week, but sometimes does not get the order correct. He can identify his colors and count to 5. He knows his first and last name and responds to them. He distinguishes between up & down and left& right. He identifies all of his body parts. He can put together a model of the human body without any assistance or prompting from an adult. He builds with blocks and can make patterns and build steps with them.His personality is described as a lively and cheerful. His attention span is short unless he is interested in the activity. He is well oriented to the institution and his living area. He is able to participate in all activities and has jobs that he does in his living area. He responds with appropriate emotions to situations. He is able to bond with adults and other children. He is described as a very social child and is well liked at the institution."

There are more pictures of him Available!!

Learn more about Perry
http://reecesrainbow.org/perry

Contact Reece's Rainbow for more information!

Liam Has a Family!!!!

2010-11-28T09:23:00.001-08:00

Liam has a family!!!!!!

http://www.anorphanswish.org/meet-our-kids/waiting-for-a-family

Ian's Grant Expires on Dec 10

2010-11-28T02:10:00.000-08:00

Ian is a boy living in Eastern Europe as an orphan

He has Arthrogryposis affecting all limbs

Ian has a $5000 grant through Brittany's Hope

This grant expires Dec 10th!! Thats less than 2 weeks!

Learn more about Ian here!!

Meet Jordan's Family!!

2010-11-28T01:53:00.000-08:00

Meet Jordan's Family!

http://reecesrainbow.org/sponsorfrancis

You can domate to his adoption via this link!!

A new picture of Victoria!!

2010-11-27T03:54:00.000-08:00

This is Victoria!

She will be 8 years old on Dec. 12th

She is happy and affectionate. Likes to play with dolls and pretend to be a mommy

She is smart and her caregivers love her!

Her special need is Arthrogryposis that appears to only affect her hips, knees and feets. (other wise known as Lower Extremity Only Arthrogryposis)

She is not currently walking but with interventions in the form of therapy, casting and orthopedic surgery her potential for independent mobility is GREAT!

She is currently living in an institution where she likely only gets her basic needs met.

If she isn't adopted she will remain bedridden for life

Her profile on Reece's Rainbow can be viewed here: http://reecesrainbow.org/victoria-1

Contact Reece's Rainbow for more information on Victoria!!

Meet Donovan

2010-11-02T07:59:00.000-07:00

Meet Donovan

He is 18 months old

He is a playful little boy who is liked very much by his caretakers. Donovan loves food and will get excited when he knows that it is time to eat. He is very friendly and has a ready smile. His favorite activity is playing with other children.

He has upper extremity Arthrogryposis (this isn't specified but his description doesn't list any joint contractures in his legs/feet)

To learn more about Donovan click here

Jordan has a family!!

2010-10-29T10:59:00.001-07:00

This little boy has Arthrogryposis and has waited a long time for a family. He finally found a family all his own!!

Arthrogryposis Awareness

2010-10-07T08:35:00.000-07:00

Abigail has a Family

2010-10-04T08:10:00.000-07:00

I recently got word Abigail has a family!!!!!!!!!

Gage found his family!

2010-10-01T06:32:00.001-07:00

cute little Gage with the curly hair will finally have a Mama and Papa of his own. Congratulations to Gage and the lucky family who is bringing him home!

Meet Ian

2010-09-21T16:23:00.000-07:00

Ian is a boy living in Eastern Europe as an orphan

He has Arthrogryposis affecting all limbs

Abigail has a $5000 Grant

2010-09-12T10:59:00.000-07:00

Abigail has a $5000 grant through Brittany's Hope

this grant expires in less then 3 months!!!!

She has lower extremity Arthrogryposis

is she YOUR Daughter?!?!??

For more information click here

Meet Liam

2010-09-12T10:50:00.000-07:00

Meet Liam

He has upper extremity Arthrogryposis

http://www.anorphanswish.org/meet-our-kids/waiting-for-a-family

Meet Paul

2010-09-12T10:48:00.000-07:00

Meet Paul

http://lifelineadoption.org/adoption/international/china/waiting-children/photos/

(Scroll Down)

Aaron

2010-09-12T10:35:00.000-07:00

On September 20th, 2010 this little guy

will officially become

Aaron Vanya Nalle

no longer an orphan!

You can read all about it here

Meet Madeline's Family!

2010-09-12T10:20:00.000-07:00

Meet Madeline's Family!

http://www.reecesrainbow.org/

Click here to donate to her families adoption fund

A typical international adoption costs $20,000 so every penny helps!

Meet Leo

2010-09-12T10:17:00.000-07:00

Meet Leo

Leo is 5.5 years old (born Dec. 4, 2002)

He is happy and social

He has lower paraplegia, secondary arthrogryposis, right-side scoliosis,

convergent squint

He is likely living in a mental institution where the conditions are less then ideal for a child

To see Leo's profile on Reece's Rainbow or to find out more information

click here

Madeline has a family!!

2010-08-30T12:25:00.001-07:00

Little Miss Madeline in Eastern Europe has a family!! She has so much potential, I cant wait to hear who will be the lucky parents!

Meet Josiah

2010-08-28T20:32:00.000-07:00

Meet Josiah

This little guy is 4 years old

He is available for adoption

He is living in China at Harmony House

You can find China's requirements for adoptive families here

Unfortunately he doesn't have any grants available

He has bilateral clubbed feet, a dislocated hip and he can't use his arms due to deformities. I am guessing that his overall diagnosis is Arthrogryposis

He has adapted very well to his limitations!

You can find his profile here

Could he be YOUR son?

Aaron's Family

2010-08-27T16:34:00.000-07:00

Please keep the Nalles in your thoughts and prayers. They once again are facing some serious difficulties in getting Aaron out of that institution and home to his brothers.

http://covenantbuilders.blogspot.com/

A New Picture of Madeline

2010-08-27T16:17:00.000-07:00

A New picture of Madeline...she's growing up!

She is 5 years old

She has likely been an orphan since birth

She is lucky to still be at her orphanage. Because she is 5 she is at risk of being transferred to an institution very, very soon.

Once she is transferred she maybe severely neglected & will have absolutely no chance at a future

She sits well, eats independently, likes to play, reacts well to adults, speaks in sentences and is independently mobile in her wheelchair and overall she a very sweet and joyful little girl.

She happens to have Arthrogryposis which includes clubfeet

She has so much potential. Her forever family needs to find her & fast!

She has $2000 in the grant fund through Reece's Rainbow toward the cost of her adoption

If you aren't in a position to adopt you can donate to her grant fund!

Is she YOUR daughter????

Arthrogryposis Awareness

2010-08-21T20:51:00.000-07:00

Arthrogryposis Awareness

Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita (AMC) means: Multiple Joint Contractures Present at Birth

A joint contacture is a joint that lacks normal range of motion or in other word is stiff or curved.

Its an umbrella term, which means AMC can be part of many syndromes & other underlying conditions.

More then 3 joints have to affected in 2 areas of the body to have a diagnosis of AMC

It occurs 1 in 3,000 live births

All joints can be affected including the spine & jaw

Joint contractures develop because the unborn baby fails to move properly. Movement is vital to proper joint development

Cognitive development (intelligence) is almost always normal

There are approx. 400 types of Arthrogryposis

About 1/3 of cases of AMC are Amyoplasia type which is non-genetic & sporadic in the population. There is no known cause for Amyoplasia.

Most Distal Arthrogryposis types & most syndromes (like Escobar, Sheldon-Hall) are genetic in origin

20-30% of babies born w/ AMC will die in the newborn period because they have a lethal genetic type or they severe central nervous system dysfunction

Some individuals do not have an identified type

Common joint contractures include: Clubbed feet or vertical talus, extended or flexed knees, dislocated and/or externally rotated hips, internally rotated shoulders, extended or flexed elbows, flexed wrists, adducted thumbs (stuck-in-palm), fingers are fisted or extended

There is no cure for Arthrogryposis, just treatment to reduce the severity of the joint contractures & increase the function level of the individual.

Treatment often includes: Stretching the joints multiple times per day, serial casting, tendon releases & lengthening, osteotomies, splinting & bracing, external fixators, physical, occupational & speech therapy.

Despite the fact there is no cure most kids with Arthrogryposis grow up to be independent & successful adults

More research needs to be done in the cause of Amyoplasia, mapping the genes in genetic types & long-term outcome studies need to done for common surgical procedures in this diagnosis.

To learn more about Arthrogryposis: www.amcsupport.org

2.5 yr w/ AMC needs a family-Domestic

2010-08-17T07:41:00.000-07:00

If anyone is considering domestic adoption, especially of an AMC'er AMC Suport has a contact who is an guardian ad litem in the state of Florida for a beautiful, curly haired, 2 1/2 year old little boy with AMC and she is desperately seeking help in finding his forever family!

If you are a member of AMC Support: www.amcsupport.org you can find more info as well as a few photos in the Adoption Forum of our message boards.

If you are not a member of AMC Support, you're more than welcome to join (its *Free*) by registering at the following link: www.amcsupportorg/forum/ucp.php?mode=register

If you do not wish to register with the website, please feel free to contact: bod@amcsupport.org for more information. We would very much like to see this child find his Forever Family.

Grady has a family!!!!!!!!

2010-08-17T07:18:00.000-07:00

Grady has a family

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Please go here:

http://www.reecesrainbow.org/familysponsorshipnew.html

If you want to read about his new family and/or donate to their adoption fund!

Update on Aaron!

2010-08-17T06:50:00.000-07:00

Aaron's family was forced to come home due to paperwork issues in Aaron's region.

Thankfully they're scheduled to go back to his country at the end of August for court. They're hoping there won't be any more 'bumps' in the road to bringing Aaron home!

If you want to follow their journey back to Eastern Europe or help them with last minute adoption expenses go to their blog.

http://covenantbuilders.blogspot.com/

Meet Tasha!!!!!

2010-08-02T13:04:00.000-07:00

Meet Tasha!!

Girl, Born December 8, 2009

Little Tasha is so pretty! She was born with arthrogryposis, and is missing her left foot entirely. Her right foot is clubbed, and she has had some corrective surgery for that already. Tasha is considered typically developing cognitively, and has a pleasant disposition! Now is a great time to get her home, to offer her surgery, physical therapy, and early intervention in a loving family environment.

Could she be YOUR daughter?

Tasha's profile on Reece's Rainbow can be found here

Donate to her grant fund here (be sure to specify the money is for Tasha)

Happy Birthday Moira!!!!!!

2010-08-02T12:47:00.001-07:00

August is Moira's Birthday Month!!!!!

Moira will be 1 year old on August 10th. She has a diagnosis of Arthrogryposis & cleft palate. Cleft Palate along with Arthrogryposis isn't super common its also not unheard of. Typically a child w/ AMC & cleft palate would have received lots & lots of treatment in the first year of life because the first year is when the joint contractures are easiest to stretch out & treat. Because Moira is an orphan in Eastern Europe she likely has received no treatment for her medical conditions & likely won't unless she is adopted.

Could Moira be YOUR daughter?

She currently has ZERO in her account through Reece's Rainbow. If you aren't in a position to adopt but want to help her future forever family you can donate to Moira's grant fund here (be sure to specify the money is for Moira's fund)

Moira's profile on Reece's Rainbow can be found here!

Aaron

2010-08-02T12:29:00.000-07:00

Please keep Aaron's family in your thoughts & prayers as they wait for the paper work to be completed in Aaron's country so they can return to bring him home

http://covenantbuilders.blogspot.com/

Aaron's Family is coming

2010-06-18T04:13:00.000-07:00

Remember Aaron?????

He has Arthrogryposis in all limbs.

His family committed to him around Christmas of '09, unfortunately he had already been transferred to an institution but that didn't stop the Nalle Family.

They've done most of the paper chase and have waited and waited and waited and they have a DATE to go to Aaron's country to meet him & finalize the adoption!!!!

July 13th is the big day!

To follow their journey to Eastern Europe or to donate to last minute adoption expenses click here: http://covenantbuilders.blogspot.com

Elizaveta has been waiting for EIGHT Years!!!

2010-06-12T17:22:00.000-07:00

When I first started following the waiting children on Reece's Rainbow back in 2007 when I found a link on my friend Valerie's blog it wasn't too long after that Elizaveta was listed.

That was almost THREE YEARS ago and she is STILL waiting on her forever family.

She is EIGHT years old has have NEVER known the love of a family. Imagine being 8 years old & never ever calling anyone "Mom" & being comforted by a mother (or a father!) She is likely living in an institution getting the just basic necessity of food, water & shelter.

There is very little information on how her Arthrogryposis affects her. I would assume she is affected in at least her legs because if it was "uppers only" I'm sure that would be said. Reece's Rainbow lists her has smart, social & able!

Could you be the family she needs to Blossom??????

Here is here information from Reece's Rainbow

Girl, Born January 2002

Elizaveta doesn't have a lot to smile about, but isn't she a LOVE?? She was born with arthrogryposis. Despite her disability, she is very able, smart, happy, and social. She will truly blossom in a loving family!

2 trips
One parent for first trip, about one week
Both parents travel for 2nd trip, only 4 days
Region prefers no more than 3 children at home
Total program and travel fees under $19k
Fee includes a $500 orphanage donation and a $500 waiting child donation
Multiple children can be adopted simultaneously (from the same orphanage)
Married couples and single mothers may apply
Easy travel and comfortable accommodations in Moscow
Our agency partner involved with this adoption is About A Child. Please contact Victoria Kats at 888.596.2816 888.596.2816 for more information.

To inquire about adopting Elizaveta contact Reece's Rainbow!

Lets talk about Madeline

2010-06-11T03:04:00.000-07:00

When I first saw Madeline's picture on Reece's Rainbow I gasp at how cute she is!!!! She is the little girl in the red dress!! Madeline was born in 2005 and is STILL waiting for her forever family to find her!

I found out from another Mom who adopted AMCer's & has seen more pictures of Madeline that she is mildly affected in her arms and is very functional!

Reece's Rainbow recently post an update on Madeline!

UPDATE! (June 2010): Madeline is blessed to still be at the baby house. She is facing the institution very soon. Madeilne is not able to walk, but she independently operates her own wheel chair and is mobile in that way. She is smart, speaks in sentences now, eats by herself, and is really doing well. Please don't let Madeline spend one day in an institution! She is so sweet and has such tremendous potntial. Surgery for her legs and feet could offer her the true mobility and independence she has never known.

Did you read that SHE IS FACING INSTITUTION VERY SOON!!!!!!!!!!!

Lets NOT let that happen!!!!!!!!!!

The fact she is using a wheelchair is encouraging. She is very mildly affected in her hands and arms. & she'll be very functional!

Here is her additional information from Reece's Rainbow

Girl, Born May 20, 2005

Madeline is so pretty, and is patiently waiting for her family! She has brown hair and eyes. She was born with arthrogryposis and club feet. From her caregivers: Speaks separate words, begins to speak in phrases, sitting well, eats independently, likes to play, reacts well to adults, very sweet and joyful little girl.

MORE PHOTOS AVAILABLE

If Madeline is your newest daughter please contact Reece's Rainbow!

She has $1000 toward the cost of her adoption in RR account!!

A New Picture of Grady

2010-06-10T19:01:00.000-07:00

There are new pictures of Grady!!!!!!

and look how he has grown!!!!!!!!!!!

Isn't he an absolute doll!!!!!!!! He has lower extremity Arthrogryosis & based on his previous pictures, with the right treatment he has the potential to walk. His legs appear to "extended" or stuck straight. An extension contracture in the knee only happens in 20% of kids with AMC. And 90% of kids of extended knees become very functional walkers (I can site this in a medical journal if anyone care!). The only thing I can't tell in this picture is how or if his hips are affected. If they are mildly affected (or hopefully not at all) & are not stuck in a sitting position with treatment he'll do great! And because his hands aren't affected he should do even better with mobility if given the right tools & therapies!

PLESE ADOPT THIS BEAUTIFUL LITTLE BOY!!!!!!

Here is Grady's Reece's Rainbow Profile information!

Boy, Born May 14, 2007

SO happy to finally have new photos of Grady! He is just as adorable as I always thought. Blonde hair and bright blue eyes! What a snuggable and happy little boy! Grady was born with arthrogryposis of his lower limbs. His hands and arms are unaffected. He is not able to walk at this time. He is 3 now, and will so greatly benefit from surgery, therapy, and loving family to encourage him! Without this, he will remain bedridden for the rest of his life.

Grady is completely typically developing cognitively. He is described as very social and smart, talkative, playful, and active. He has no cognitive delays or speech problems whatsoever. Please consider Grady for your son!

More photos available!

If you think Grady is for your newest son & addition to your family contact Reece's Rainbow!

The Children's Home & Family Society

2010-06-05T00:12:00.000-07:00

The description of 4 additional children with Arthrogryposis available for adoption can be

requested by emailing

The Children's Home & Family Society

Contact: ltrinh@chsfs.org

These Children's pictures & descriptions cannot be listed here.