Meet the Maddeaux Family!
When Amber and Troy were ready to start a family, fertility challenges blocked their way. Not the kind of folks who are easily deterred, they decided instead to become foster parents, “because we wanted to help children who needed a safe home.” When they filled out their application, the couple expressed their interest in caring for sibling groups as well as for children of minority ethnicity. They had learned that those were the children in greatest need.
The Maddeauxes are now experiencing all the fun, joy, hard work, and occasional sleep deprivation involved in raising three close-in-age little ones. They proudly introduce their new daughters and son: Arabella, age 3; Kyndall, age 2; and Leland, who is 18 months.
"We thank God for them every day!"
Kyndall was placed into their home first, as a 3-day-old newborn. The couple was able to adopt her two years later. Kyndall is described as a “very smart, sweet, and outgoing toddler.” She is often found happily dancing about the house. When Kyndall was just 8 weeks old, the family was asked to accept Arabella, a 4-month-old foster baby, and they immediately said yes. They were able to adopt her, also at age 2. Arabella was considered a baby with “special needs” due to a heart condition that has required blood transfusions. In an environment of abundant attention and stability, Arabella has progressed and thrived. This cheerful little girl easily elicits smiles and laughter from others. Arabella’s younger brother Leland was placed into foster care with the Maddeauxes as a newborn. He was 18 months old when his adoption was completed. A gentle, affectionate, and playful little fellow, Leland can already “throw” a football.
The Maddeaux immediate family also includes Amber’s mother, who resides in the home. She is very involved in the children’s lives and enjoys being a full-time grandmother. Amber and Troy appreciate having three doting adults to care for their three children. The Maddeauxes worked with Camelot Community Care on their foster care licensing and adoption processes. Due to their children’s young ages, they have not yet required counseling or other post-adoption services, but they are happy to know that these are available to them in the future.
When asked about obstacles they had to overcome in the adoption process, they note “siblings separations” and “having to be being available at all times for biological family visits during the process prior to adoption.” Based on their experiences as foster and adoptive parents, Amber and Troy respectfully ask members of Congress to refocus the process of permanency to emphasize what is best for the children. In their view, birth parents are often given too much time and too many chances after they have failed to comply with the case plan tasks.
When acquaintances marvel at the Maddeauxes’ ability to care for children whom they might not be able to keep, Amber replies, “How could we not do it? Whether they are with us for just one night or forever, every child deserves a family. These babies have changed our lives in many ways. We thank God for them every day!”
