In April of 2009, News 8 featured an eight-year-old girl named Samantha in the Adopt 8 segment. She had been through nearly 20 placements, was two grade levels behind and was desperate to find a stable, loving home. But now, Samantha is thriving and her life's path has completely changed.
Now, two years after News 8 first met Samantha, this eight-year-old can finally share her secret, which was she wished for a nice family and that wish has come true.
Now a 10-year-old, Samantha is part of a loving home and life, since she joined her family, has been fun, as she puts it.
Barry and Lori, who have a biological son named Eric, decided to explore adoption a few years ago. Barry says he was inspired to open up their home and hearts, after watching Adopt 8 stories and seeing the need.
"It just kind of touched my heart, and we have room in our house," said Barry. "So we said, there's a lot of Samantha's out there who could use a home. She's been, she's been a blessing."
And Samantha couldn't be happier. She loves going to the movies and Petco Park with her dad. With her mom, Samantha likes to go shopping.
Samantha has brought new life and energy to their family and her brother says it was a perfect match.
"We were the perfect family to adopt because I'm an only child, and we had room in our house," explained Eric.
Eric is 18 and a senior in high school, and Barry and Lori could have soon been empty nesters had they not adopted.
"We could have, we could have, I don't know, there just seems like there's so many kids out there that, you know, need somebody and they need a family, they need to be with somebody," continued Lori.
They say the classes they took through San Diego County Adoptions were instrumental in helping them reach their decision to change a child's life.
"You just go in with an open mind and see if it's for you, said Barry. "It's not for everyone of course, but I'm sure there's a lot of families out there that could help," said Barry
Help make a difference in someone's life like they are doing for Samantha, whose love for her family is limitless.
If you are interested in adopting from foster care, or becoming a foster family, call 1-877-I-ADOPT-U to learn more about getting started. The County of San Diego offers monthly orientation classes.
