A MIRACLE FOR DEVON
Ed and Esse Rhodes officially adopted Devon on March 22, 2006. This is their remarkable story.
Esse and Ed were very interested in adopting a child, but a teenager was the last thing on their mind. Having no children of their own, Ed was even unsure that he had what it takes to raise a child. But when Esse was diagnosed with MS, she found herself at home with a lot of time and energy on her hands. She convinced her husband to consider the possible of a young child and they both decided to start to look into the process. While browsing the NBC6.net website, they came across the Forever Family segments. After looking at several segments they saw the one featuring Devon. Devon spoke with such feeling about world issues and his positive attitude and desire for a family, really stuck with Ed and Esse. They pursued the adoption process and on December 16th 2005, Devon moved into their home in time to celebrate the holiday season. Ed states that Devon is a true human being, very articulate, sensitive and is a role model for other people. Esse states that Devon has character, courage and compassion. Devon loves his new family and he says, “that all that matters”.
PHILLIP FINDS A HOME
By Jim McElhannon
On January 29, 2004, Phillip appeared on the Forever Family Program on Channel 6. At age 16, the chances of finding a permanent family were growing slim. Phillip had suffered a failed adoption early in life. He has been in the foster care system since that time. Although very bright, Phillip had many obstacles to overcome because of past issues in his life. But Phillip got very lucky, when his case landed on the desk of Child Advocate, Mel Smith. You see, Mel never gives up on a child. After appearing on Forever Family, many calls were received from families interested in Phillip. Most families, after hearing Phillips history, felt that he would not be a match for them. However, three special families were not deterred. Jim McElhannon, who coordinates the Forever Family Program, went to talk with Mel regarding these families. From that point on, Mel did everything right. He personally called the families and visited with them in their home. Mel, along with Recruitment, enrolled the families in Mapp Class. He kept in contact with the families throughout Mapp and by the fifth class, it was agreed that one particular family was the best match for Phillip. Mel continued to work with the family on an almost daily basis. It was not easy. Phillip had his up and downs in dealing with the prospects of having a permanent home. But Mel never gives up. He stayed with it, working and counseling with Phillip, as well as the family. It was a long and difficult road that was traveled, but because of the tenacious spirit of Mel Smith, Phillip now has a permanent family and a real chance in life. Also as a result of Mel’s excellent work, one of the other families that were interested in Phillip, has identified a teenager that they are interested in. Mel has vowed to work just as diligently on this case. Mel Smith’s work on this case is the blue print of excellence. Thanks you, Mel, for a job well done!
 The adoption of John W. age 6, affectionately called "John John", was happily finalized in July, 2002. Mark and Laurie Kramer, who were approved adoptive parents at the time, saw John John featured in the "Open Hearts, Open Homes" series which is generously sponsored by the Sun-Sentinel. Although John John is a medically complex child, suffering from a rare genetic disorder, the Kramer's fell in love with John John from the first time they saw his picture and read the article in the Sun-Sentinel.
The Kramer's immediately contacted Jim McElhannon, the author of the "Open Heart. Open Homes" articles. Jim also happened to be John John's recruitment counselor, and the process was quickly set in motion. After the Kramers homestudy was reviewed by all the appropriate personnel, it was agreed by all to move forward. A visit was arranged with the Kramers and John John, along with his medical foster parents. It was love at first sight for the Kramers. Even though John John is very developmentally delayed, he is very affectionate and loves to give hugs. After a few more visits, a bond was quickly established.
The Kramers are both retired teachers who only work part-time, and are able to stay home with John John and work with him in developing his physical and social skills. At last report, John John has made incredible progress with his developmental milestones. John John and Mr. Kramer are inseparable A very happy ending for the long road that John John has traveled. A party is planned soon by the Kramers to celebrate John John and the completion of the Kramers as a true family.
by,
Jim McElhannon
Adoption Recruitment
District 10 - 954-267-2194
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