My four kids are all INCREDIBLE KIDS, but I do have a daughter who was in three foster care placements prior joining our family, at the age of 16 months. She is now a five year old Incredible Kid; she has overcome some huge obstacles in her young life and is truly an INCREDIBLE KID.
“Being a foster parent is the most rewarding experience in my life” I continued my full time day job, and being a mommy/foster mommy at night. I got a call one evening for two children who were siblings, a boy age 2 mo. and girl age 16mo. “Wow”, I thought to myself, “The thought of becoming an instant mom of three was a little scary.” The social worker advised me I could meet them prior to taking placement do to this being there forth foster home in 4 weeks and these children needed a permanent home. I was advised that the 16mo old little girl had many attachment issues, didn’t sleep, would hoard food, eat out of the trash, and had developmental delays. She also revealed that the 2 mo. old baby boy and the 16 mo old little girl was on a nebulizer several times a day due to drug exposure and living on the streets prior to being removed from their biological parents. I knew myself better than anyone else, that if I met these two children, that I would not be able to say goodbye. Both children became a permanent member of my family when they were adopted in September of 2007. “My children have given my life meaning. They’ve also helped me become a more patient and well-rounded person.”
At 16 months old Rihanna did not know how to run, smile or even talk. Medical issues included, physical abuse, scabies, asthma, and Reactive Attachment Disorder.
I would hear her singing through the baby monitor that is the only time I would hear her voice. She did not answer to her name nor would she acknowledge anyone who talked to her. However, Rihanna was very self sufficient she carried around a cup at all times and would even get her own food. Rihanna had to learn how to be a little girl and I slowly gained her trust so she would know she didn’t have to hoard food as she would never have to worry about when she would eat again. This was a very long process, but slowly Rihanna learned how to be a "normal" toddler. We worked extremely hard to get Rihanna, to par developmentally; she attended weekly classes at our local regional center, UCP therapy, and counseling sessions for reactive attachment disorder. She also had severe hearing loss in her right ear from numerous untreated ear infections. Rihanna was seen at Valley Children Hospital for her hearing impairment, as well as her asthma. Rihanna eventually had her adenoids’ removed and this made a world of difference as she was able to breathe better and her speech improved. Rihanna is now a thriving 5 year old, who loves playing baseball with her three brothers, dance, and is an aspiring singer. Rihanna has over come a lot of struggles and obstacles in her short life but with love and trust she has turned into an INCREDIBLE KID.... Rihannas dream is to be a singer and receive private singing lesson, which I hope one day to be able to financially provide for her.
Rihanna AKA Sassy Pants, graduated pre-kindergarden (06-2010), "mommy, i am sooo sad i am never going to see my friends again."
Gallery
4 homes in 4 weeks for my 16 mo. old
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says ... on Tuesday, Aug 10 at 7:59 PM
This family is great, and inspiring... Congrats
says ... on Sunday, Aug 8 at 1:27 PM
With a mother like you.. there is no doubt those kids will succeed in life! :) they are all amazing children!
says ... on Friday, Aug 6 at 7:21 AM
You Rock
says ... on Sunday, Aug 1 at 6:22 PM
What an extraordinary story…. It takes people like you to help enrich the lives of so many. These children will now have a bright and beautiful future. Thanks for all you do.
says ... on Friday, Jul 30 at 9:30 AM
Wow! You are a trooper! I'm very happy for your family and wish your children all the blessings they deserve. The biggest blessing they could have received thus far is the love you have showered upon them and continue to give...
says ... on Friday, Jul 30 at 8:56 AM
You're an amazing woman, Kelly. All your children are blessed to have you for a mom.
says ... on Friday, Jul 9 at 2:32 PM
This little girl is wonderful.. this family should be the poster family for families in the vally
says ... on Friday, Jul 2 at 9:54 PM
sissy.... no : )
says ... on Friday, Jul 2 at 9:53 PM
Rihanna I LOve you
says ... on Friday, Jul 2 at 9:53 PM
Love you sister...
says ... on Thursday, Jul 1 at 10:53 AM
GREAT STORY. AND A HAPPY FAMILY.
says ... on Thursday, Jul 1 at 10:52 AM
KELLY GREAT JOB...RIHANNA YOU ARE A VERY BLESSES LITTLE GIRL.
says ... on Thursday, Jul 1 at 7:53 AM
GREAT STORY. SO HAPPY FOR THIS FAMILY.
says ... on Thursday, Jul 1 at 7:51 AM
YOU ARE AMAZING KELLY. RIHANNA YOU ARE SO BEAUTIFUL.
says ... on Thursday, Jul 1 at 7:28 AM
GREAT JOB. THIS IS A WONDERFUL FAMILY. BLESS YOU ALL.
says ... on Thursday, Jul 1 at 7:24 AM
GREAT STORY. WONDERFUL FAMILY.
says ... on Thursday, Jul 1 at 7:11 AM
IT'S GREAT TO READ A TERRIFIC STORY ABOUT THE LOVE OF CHILDREN AND THEIR PARENTS. THIS HAS MADE MY DAY. THANK YOU
says ... on Thursday, Jul 1 at 6:58 AM
AMAIZING FAMILY. BLESS YOU
says ... on Wednesday, Jun 30 at 4:56 PM
You are a God sent gift and your children will prosper good values and morals as they grow you are such an amazing person you will leave a life lasting impression in their little hearts.
says ... on Wednesday, Jun 30 at 4:55 PM
Kelly, You are a grand woman to open your heart at such a young age and take on this great responsibility to raise your beautiful children not any woman your age would do. Your Children are truly blessed having you as their mommy! You are a God sent
says ... on Wednesday, Jun 30 at 8:04 AM
Rihanna ROCKS!!!
says ... on Tuesday, Jun 29 at 8:54 PM
What a great story! Kelly you are truly an Angel:) Those kids are so blessed to have you.
says ... on Tuesday, Jun 29 at 2:10 PM
Rihanna is a great little girl, she has over come alot and is a great little helper. Good luck in Kinder
says ... on Tuesday, Jun 29 at 2:09 PM
WOW... this little girl is amazing.
says ... on Monday, Jun 28 at 8:33 PM
great story.... very well written. Lord please bless this mother and her little children. the world needs more mothers like kavila.
says ... on Monday, Jun 28 at 6:48 PM
The Lord will continue to Bless this child & her mother & Dad, Good work Kelly. Keep up the good work. Rihanna also has a great gramma & granpa. Lord bless you all.
says ... on Monday, Jun 28 at 6:45 PM
Kelly, God has Blessed you & your family. He will continue to Bless this Precious child. We also have an adopted grandson from Valley Children's. Our kid's took him home at 5 day's old. Praise God, for people like you..God Bless..
says ... on Sunday, Jun 27 at 8:40 PM
Wow! Rihanna & her brothers are very blessed to have a family like theirs.
says ... on Sunday, Jun 27 at 6:06 PM
AKA: Sassy pants story is AMAZING, and INSPIRING
says ... on Sunday, Jun 27 at 5:52 PM
what a story of love, a story of believing in someone. i salute kavila for making a difference in rihanna's life and the other children as well.
says ... on Saturday, Jun 26 at 7:56 PM
Thats my baby Girl
says ... on Saturday, Jun 26 at 9:44 AM
Its amazing how angels are sent to us to care for the the littlest ones. I am so gateful for people like you that care enough to provide the love and guidence these innocent children need. You are a special family.
says ... on Saturday, Jun 26 at 9:39 AM
what the world needs NOW is more loving families like this one!! may God bless this family and this darling little girl always!
says ... on Friday, Jun 25 at 7:16 PM
I'M GLADE TO SEE WHAT LOVE CAN OVER COME IN SOMEONES LIFE. K ELLY KEEP IT GOING AND GOOD LUCK!
says ... on Friday, Jun 25 at 1:46 PM
AMAZING STORY, BROUGHT TEARS TO MY EYES!!
says ... on Friday, Jun 25 at 1:46 PM
Rihanna you and your family ROCK!! Makes think my issues are very small. Kelly continue doing what your doing your a great mom.
says ... on Friday, Jun 25 at 8:29 AM
Awesome story....Rihanna is an amazing kid to have overcome so many things in life already.... Kelly you have done an awesome job with all the kids... Love you all... Lori Alves
says ... on Thursday, Jun 24 at 1:23 PM
This is an amazing story and you are all very lucky to have each other. Great Job!
says ... on Thursday, Jun 24 at 9:02 AM
Rihanna you are a incredible little girl.....
says ... on Thursday, Jun 24 at 7:33 AM
Thanks for all the comments on my daughters story. It is great to know we have so much support : )
says ... on Thursday, Jun 24 at 7:30 AM
Rihanna keep up the good work, i know with the help of your mom you will do great things. Maria
says ... on Wednesday, Jun 23 at 10:40 PM
wow ! What an amazing little Girl! Kelly all of your kids are so beautiful ,and your strong soul and caring spirit will lead your kids to be wonderful human beings like yourself.
says ... on Wednesday, Jun 23 at 9:39 PM
Rihanna , Has wonderful family, keep up great work Kelly.
says ... on Wednesday, Jun 23 at 8:07 PM
Such a beautiful touching story ,Its good to hear that your kids have loving mother that cares lots for them. I'm glad to hear that rihanna has found a loving home that well bring lots of smiles into her life
says ... on Wednesday, Jun 23 at 5:00 PM
kelly I give you alot of credit for taking on the kids. you have to be one of a kind . I think of you all the time The kids are very lucky to have you as there MOM Irene.
says ... on Wednesday, Jun 23 at 12:20 PM
Kelly, you have left a life lasting impression on this little girls heart, that all that she has gone through before you being in her life will be but a a fading memory. Rihanna will know what a big heart her mommy has. Rihanna fallow in mommys steps
says ... on Wednesday, Jun 23 at 9:40 AM
Wow, very touching, your a wonderful person and mother Kell.
says ... on Wednesday, Jun 23 at 7:59 AM
What an awesome person you are, K, to open your heart and arms and what an awesome child you are, Rihanna. I wish you and all your family the best. You all deserve it!
says ... on Wednesday, Jun 23 at 7:36 AM
VERY INSPIRING STORY!! KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK RIHANNA
says ... on Tuesday, Jun 22 at 8:52 AM
Rihanna is a awesome girl who with the help of her mother and the power she had in her self made her the strong 5 year old she is today. we are all very proud of her and wish her and her family the best there is to offer.
says ... on Monday, Jun 21 at 10:54 PM
Rihanna is an awesome girl and has finally received the family she deserves w/ K!
says ... on Monday, Jun 21 at 8:36 PM
this story is soo touching. i do not know this family. but i do know first hand, children in the foster system go through so much and most people dont realize the potential these kids have with a little struc
says ... on Monday, Jun 21 at 6:43 PM
RIHANNA IS A WONDERFUL AND LOVING GREAT GRAND DAUGHTER. WE ALL LOVE HER SO MUCH. SHE WILL GROW UP TO BE A STAR......
says ... on Monday, Jun 21 at 3:57 PM
Rihanna has grown so much emotionally, she is a mature young lady.. Good luck in Kindergarden next year!! Kelly, Rihanna and the boys are so lucky to have eachother.
says ... on Monday, Jun 21 at 3:52 PM
This is very inspiring story, Rihanna has come so far for being so young, may God continue to Bless this family.
says ... on Monday, Jun 21 at 1:17 PM
both kelly and rihanna are blessed to have found each other. kelly you have trurly changed her life as she has changed yours, you two are surely an insperation to us all. may god keep the blessings coming!
says ... on Monday, Jun 21 at 12:41 PM
This is a truly wonderful and moving story, It is awsome to know that your daughter is doing much better, I pray that she will continue to do so, best of luck
says ... on Sunday, Jun 20 at 8:12 PM
Kelly i knew you were a good mom, but i was wrong you are a great mom. Keep it going, i know you will. As for Rihanna she will have an amazing singing career, I will be one of the first persons to buy a concert ticket to her show
says ... on Sunday, Jun 20 at 7:15 PM
I’ve known Kelly since she was a toddler and I can see the love Rihanna has within her now,and only a loved child can display love the way Rihanna does, she truly is a special child. I saw that the moment I met her She will be someone special one day
says ... on Sunday, Jun 20 at 4:51 PM
Opening your heart is one of the greatest and most precious gifts a person can give. Kelly, you gave that gift not only to Rihanna but to your other children. You are truly a gift from God. I am honored to be your aunt.
says ... on Sunday, Jun 20 at 2:12 PM
Rihanna, you have a wonderful mommy and family. I am truely blessed to say that I know them.
says ... on Sunday, Jun 20 at 12:29 PM
Rihanna, I love you so much! I remember the day you came home. You have grown so much in the past few years. You are truly an amazing kid and provide me with plenty of joy and funny stories. Love, Tia
says ... on Saturday, Jun 19 at 9:55 PM
My daughter kelly is so special to have opened up her heart and life to adopting three children. Rihanna has been through so much the first 16 mos and now has a wonderful life. Thank God for giving her to us.
says ... on Saturday, Jun 19 at 9:38 PM
Rihanna is such a precious little girl. Rihanna brings joy to her mom and brothers lifes everyday. Good luck rihanna i know u and ur mom will keep striving to over come ur begaining years. love u girl
says ... on Saturday, Jun 19 at 9:37 PM
Rihanna is such a precious little girl. Rihanna brings joy to her mom and brothers lifes everyday. Good luck rihanna i know u and ur mom will keep striving to over come ur begaining years. love u girl
says ... on Saturday, Jun 19 at 9:17 PM
Rihanna sure is a cutie. Every time I see her she has grown in size and in personality. I am proud of you Kelly for all the love and patience you have. Rihanna is sure a lucky little girl to have a Mom like you.
says ... on Saturday, Jun 19 at 8:55 PM
rihanna is my very special little granddaughter and i love her very much.
says ... on Saturday, Jun 19 at 8:48 PM
well i have been there from the start and i believe that we are the luckiest family to have been blessed by these 3 angels. i love you rihanna. love auntie
says ... on Saturday, Jun 19 at 8:45 PM
Rhianna is truly blessed to have you as her mom. Because of you Rhianna now has the hope and promise of a brighter future.
says ... on Saturday, Jun 19 at 8:01 PM
rihanna is a great little girl. always willing to help out at school and willing to learn new things. rihanna is also a great friend to my daughter.
says ... on Friday, Jun 18 at 8:26 PM
WOW! This is really an amazing story. Kelly, you are an amazing person and GOD has blessed you with your beautiful children. Your children are also blessed to have you too. I believe miracles do happen and this is definitely one of them. So happy 4u!
says ... on Friday, Jun 18 at 6:24 PM
I met Rihanna when she was a little toddler... so shy, but she has blossomed into a beautiful outspoken little girl. She is wonderful & has a great family!!!
says ... on Friday, Jun 18 at 6:24 PM
Rihanna is blessed to have a caring mom like ya k. and the boys are just as blessed. hope all is well and you all are super happy :)
says ... on Friday, Jun 18 at 3:20 PM
I knew Rihanna when she entered the foster system, this little girl was very fraile. She has blossemed into a georgous little girl. Kelly rocks as a mom too.
says ... on Friday, Jun 18 at 3:18 PM
Rihanna has grown to be a great littel girl, her potential is endless. Rihanna you are AMAZING
says ... on Wednesday, Jun 16 at 6:45 PM
Having seen first hand how Ms. Sassy Pants is nowadays, she's definitely come a long way! She's absolutely blessed to have you as her mommy! I can't wait to see what the future holds for her... maybe our next American Idol?!!!
says ... on Tuesday, Jun 15 at 1:58 PM
A very touching story, and an inspiring little girl. Thank goodness you did not give up on her. You truly have a huge heart and all of your children are very fortunate to have such a wonderful mother!
says ... on Tuesday, Jun 15 at 9:22 AM
Very encouraging to see that Rihanna can overcome the obstacles she was given. And it's because of your love and patience, and determination, K, that helped make that possible. It's simply amazing what a little love can do.
says ... on Tuesday, Jun 15 at 8:53 AM
love you Rihanna...
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