Meet the Kelsey Family!

"Adoption is both a joyful and sorrowful occasion."

The Kelseys describe Odin as “amazingly bright and affectionate, with a wonderful sense of humor.” Aware that every adoption begins with a loss, these wise parents recognize and honor Odin’s connection to his birth family. “Adoption has meant more than just adding Odin to our family. We embrace his biological mother and siblings as part of our family. We believe in having as much contact as possible to help Odin develop a healthy sense of self.” Matt and Jamie are committed to nurturing and providing for Odin’s healthy development in all areas – physical, emotional, and educational. They tirelessly advocate for the services needed to address their son’s needs. Odin faces some challenges as a result of his early life experiences, but the Kelsey’s have worked hard to be sure that he gets what he needs to be successful.  For example, his IEP at school includes a one-on- one paraprofessional to assist him in maintaining focus and regulation during the school day. 

While they are strong advocates for foster care adoption, the Kelseys want others to understand, “Children belong with their biological families when possible. Adoption is not a solution to the trauma a child has experienced. When a family is created through adoption it is both a joyful and sorrowful occasion since one family had to come apart to create the other.”