Key Takeaways
- Hayley and Etienne Goliath, a Westridge couple, have finalized the adoption of their 7-year-old son, Judah, after a six-year journey through fostering and court processes.
- The couple’s path to parenthood began when they realized having biological children might not be possible, leading them to foster care and eventually adopting Judah.
- The adoption process was lengthy and faced delays, including the Covid-19 pandemic, but the couple persevered and are now celebrating their first Christmas as official parents.
- Judah is comfortable with his adoption story and has shared it with his teachers and friends, and the family hopes to encourage others to consider adoption.
- The Goliaths believe that adoption should be more openly embraced, as there are many children in need of loving homes.
Introduction to the Goliath Family’s Journey
The Goliath family, consisting of Hayley, Etienne, and their adopted son Judah, are celebrating a very special Christmas this year. After a six-year journey through fostering, court processes, and lengthy delays, Judah’s adoption is now official, and the family is thrilled to have him as a permanent part of their lives. Mr. Goliath expressed his joy, stating that it feels as if Judah has always been theirs. The couple’s path to parenthood was not easy, but they persevered, and their love and dedication to Judah have paid off.
The Couple’s Path to Parenthood
The Goliaths’ journey to parenthood began when they realized that having biological children might not be part of their story. This realization led them to consider foster care, and they eventually cared for their first foster child, Mical Bugamo. Although Mical’s stay was cut short when she was deported back to Congo, the experience was traumatic, and it took the couple five years to feel ready to begin the fostering process again. Their next step led them to Hannah’s Place of Safety in Westridge, where they met with CEO Janine Fabe. The couple was clear about their intention to care for a child without parents and went through interviews and assessments. Within three to four months, they were told about a young boy placed at Baitul Ansaar in Beacon Valley, and they met him in October 2019.
The Adoption Process
The adoption process was lengthy and faced several delays, including the Covid-19 pandemic. The couple had to navigate ongoing court appearances and repeated paperwork renewals, as foster care placements must be reviewed every two years. Judah remained with them throughout the process, and the family had to secure a passport for him, which seemed nearly impossible at times. However, after months of effort and constant follow-ups, Judah’s passport was issued just one day before their departure for a cruise to Namibia. The couple also cared for other children, including two boys from Zimbabwe who lived with them for 11 months. Despite the challenges, the Goliaths persevered, and their love and dedication to Judah have paid off.
The Finalization of the Adoption
The finalization of the adoption was a momentous occasion for the Goliath family. Judah’s name officially became Judah Athandwe Goliath, and he is now a permanent part of the family. Mr. Goliath expressed his joy, stating that being called "daddy" and being part of Judah’s life is the most rewarding thing. The family is grateful for the support they received from organizations like Hannah’s Place of Safety and hopes to encourage others to consider adoption. Ms. Fabe, the CEO of Hannah’s Place of Safety, praised the Goliaths for opening their hearts and home to a child in desperate need of a family. She hopes that more people will follow their example and live selflessly, providing loving homes to children who need them.
Judah’s Adjustment and Future Plans
Judah is comfortable with his adoption story and has shared it with his teachers and friends, many of whom are also adopted. He enjoys swimming and fitness and is currently exploring parkour. Mr. Goliath believes that adoption should be more openly embraced, as there are many children who need homes. The Goliath family hopes to encourage others to consider adoption and provide loving homes to children who need them. As they celebrate their first Christmas as official parents, the Goliaths are grateful for the gift of family and the love that they share. Judah’s adoption has brought them immense joy, and they hope to inspire others to follow in their footsteps.