Quantifiable Difference

It is rare that I can see I have made an actual quantifiable difference in someone's life, but today I was given the evidence that our family has made a difference.  Sir Smiles had his Early Childhood Intervention evaluation today.  A year ago, he showed very, very marked delays in all developmental areas.  When he arrived at our door 10 months ago, the delays were just as evident and concerning.  They were so concerning that we took him to a neurologist to see if there was brain damage.

Six months ago, ECI did an evaluation, and he was still 7-10 months behind in virtually every area.  That was the beginning of progress.  Today, he is markedly ahead of his age group in several areas and right where he should be in every other area!  He qualifies for absolutely no more therapy services.  That brings tears to my eyes and makes my heart swell.  We did it!  We made an actual difference in this child's life that will go with him when he leaves us in three weeks.  He is smarter and stronger and ready to face the world as a force.

This is exactly why foster care, even when you have to brave the tough goodbyes, is oh-so worth it all.