Blog Post Foster to Adopt Journey

The Greatest Thing We’ve Ever Been Part Of: A Foster-to-Adopt Journey

  • November 14th, 2024
  • By Pathway Caring for Children

Luke and Gabby Berry had always felt drawn to adoption. In 2020, amid the pandemic, they turned this feeling into action, completing foster and adoption training online. Sitting together in their living room, they both dove in, Gabby jotting careful notes and Luke sharing, “We believe in opening our home to a child in need. As a police officer, I see children in tough situations every day.” Little did they know just how transformative this decision would become.

After earning their license, they received a call about Nathaniel, a two-month-old baby weighing just 4 pounds. Born with exposure to substances, Nathaniel had already spent significant time in the NICU. Without hesitation, Luke and Gabby welcomed him into their home, determined to provide the care he needed. They embarked on a year marked by resilience, love, and over 200 medical appointments. Eventually, they learned that Nathaniel had cerebral palsy, but it didn’t deter them—it only deepened their commitment.

Their journey wasn’t just about caring for Nathaniel; it became an experience of connection and compassion. They built a bond with Nathaniel’s birth mother, who, during a court hearing, shared her heartfelt wish for Luke and Gabby to raise her son. This past summer, after two and a half years of loving and nurturing, Luke and Gabby had the joy of officially adopting Nathaniel, making him an irreplaceable part of their family.

“He truly is a blessing,” they share. “Waking up every day to his huge smile—it’s priceless. This will always be at the top of the list of the greatest things we’ve ever been a part of. Adoption is no small commitment, but nothing meaningful ever is.”

For the Berry family, adoption has been an incredible journey—one that’s shown them the power of love, the resilience of family, and the boundless joy of bringing a child home.

Watch Luke share more about his family HERE:

If you are considering becoming a foster or foster-to-adopt parent, Pathway Caring for Children is ready to support you in taking this remarkable journey toward making a difference in the lives of children in Ohio.

Have more questions? We can’t wait to hear from you! All questions are good questions, don’t hesitate to reach out! [email protected]