After years of rejection and loneliness, a girl in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, was ultimately adopted into a loving household. While children are no longer required to have a legal guardian at the age of 18, many young adults still want love and care.
Sadie Schmieg was one such adolescent. She grew up without parents to console and lead her through the stages of puberty.
Sadie never believed she’d discover her dream family, yet she did just that this year. When Rachel and Blake Schmieg met Sadie, they already had four children.
The family committed to care for her until she finished high school. Her stay, though, quickly became everlasting. They indicated their desire and willingness to adopt her if that was what she desired, the father explained.
Sadie was overcome with emotion and couldn’t believe it. She stated she was amazed that someone who didn’t know who she was or anything about her desired to be a part of her life and upbringing.
While the family did not see Sadie’s first steps, they are delighted to be present for her today. They are not going to miss a second of her life from now on, Rachel remarked.
The parents had no prior experience with adolescent children. Their children are all under the age of seven. They were, though, ready for the challenge. The father was well aware of the magnitude of the task.
Blake stated that when one becomes a parent via adoption, one assumes all of the duties that come with being a parent. The bills, the college things, the good and bad days.
There was a legal stumbling block in their path, making the adoption procedure difficult. According to South Dakota law, Sadie was ineligible for adoption since she was beyond the age of 18. The family decided to fight back.
They collaborated with lawmakers to modify the criteria and laws. The official adoption took a long time to complete, and when it did, the triumph was much sweeter.
Having that serenity and simply the harmony of belonging to someone and realizing that somebody wants you back that’s just the best feeling, Sadie said. There are still many youngsters that require a permanent home.
By sharing their experience, the Schmieg family hopes to spread the word and urge other parents to open their hearts and homes to children in need.
