A Miami Couple’s Quest to Adopt Their Twin Nieces: A Race Against Time
A Late-Night Phone Call Changes Everything
In February, Joanne and Rafael Alvarez received a late-night phone call from Joanne’s home country of South Africa. Her brother’s wife, her sister-in-law, had passed away, leaving behind two two-week-old twin girls, Geraldine and Bianca. The babies were in foster care because her brother was unable to care for them.
A New Mission for the Couple
Joanne and Rafael, who had struggled with infertility, knew they wanted to adopt the twins. They decided to file for custody, but they soon discovered that getting the babies to South Florida would be challenging. Their brother, who had surrendered the girls into foster care, couldn’t sign over custody to Joanne, so they would have to go through the international adoption process.
The Expensive and Complicated Process
The process of adopting the twins would cost between $40,000 to $60,000, a significant financial burden for the couple. The Holt International adoption agency agreed to help, but the family court in South Africa set a tight deadline, giving them until May to complete the process.
A Battle for Custody
The couple’s fight for custody has become a battle, with the court hearing set to rule on whether the twins can come to South Florida to live with them or permanently stay with their foster family. Joanne hopes the judge will allow her to have the girls, so they can be raised by family.
Conclusion
Joanne and Rafael’s story is a heart-wrenching example of the challenges faced by adoptive families. With the deadline looming, the couple is racing against time to secure the future of their twin nieces. Their GoFundMe page is set up to help raise the necessary funds for the adoption process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why did Joanne and Rafael decide to adopt their twin nieces?
A: The couple had always wanted to have children, but they struggled with infertility. When they received the news of their sister-in-law’s passing and the twins’ availability, they knew they had to act quickly to provide a loving home for the girls.
Q: Why is the adoption process so expensive?
A: The international adoption process is lengthy and complex, involving multiple agencies, lawyers, and government bureaucracies. The costs add up quickly, making it a significant financial burden for many families.
Q: How can I support Joanne and Rafael in their adoption journey?
A: You can contribute to their GoFundMe page, which aims to raise the necessary funds for the adoption process. Every little bit counts in helping this loving couple bring their twin nieces home.
