Our Special Needs Adoption Journey from India: Daniel’s Story
Raven and Josh Lieurance share how they prepared to welcome their son Daniel, diagnosed with special needs, through Children’s House International’s adoption program.
Choosing Special Needs Adoption with Confidence
When we started our adoption journey, we knew we were open to special needs. We already had nephews with special needs and close friends whose children had special needs. Because of that, our lives were already surrounded with support, love, and understanding.
That made us confident, but we were also very grateful for the tools that Children’s House International’s free adoption education gave us.
“We learned so much from the training CHI provided. It was incredibly helpful—especially when navigating trauma, attachment, and bonding. Along the way, I’ve found myself in moments where the training really made a difference.”
Learning More About Daniel’s Needs
At first, we entered the process open to children with “minor to moderate correctable special needs.” After we accepted Daniel’s referral, we learned more about his medical history.
Genetic testing done while he was being considered by another family revealed that he had two syndromes—one genetic, and one being Moebius Syndrome, which is not correctable.
For us, that news did not change anything.
“That didn’t really matter to us because we just knew in our hearts that he was our son.”
Preparing Our Hearts and Home
We continued preparing for Daniel’s arrival by decorating his room, asking questions, and learning everything we could. But most importantly, we decided not to place too many expectations on what life would look like once he came home.
“We were so open to things changing and just navigating the best we could in the moment—not looking too far ahead, but fully trusting the process, CHI, and the people who had walked the road before us.”
Encouragement for Other Families
For families who may be considering adopting a child with special needs, we want to share what helped us most:
– Get involved with the special needs community. Volunteering or spending time around families can open your eyes to the beauty and joy of these children’s lives.
– Stay flexible. Adoption journeys rarely go exactly as planned, but openness makes the journey much smoother.
– Lean on support. CHI’s training and your personal community will help prepare you for the challenges and joys ahead.
“We were really fortunate to have a good understanding of what life with special needs children is—and how beautiful it can be.”
Life with Daniel
Daniel has brought us so much joy. Watching him grow and thrive as part of our family has been a blessing beyond measure.
“Daniel is such a blessing. Our family feels whole. Not quite complete because we plan to adopt again—but definitely fuller with love.”
Read More of Our Story
If you’d like to know more about how Daniel came home and our first moments together, we’d love for you to read our companion blog:
👉 https://childrenshouseinternational.com/our-adoption-journey-from-india-bringing-daniel-home/