KALAMAZOO, Mich. -- Tuesday was Michigan Adoption Day - and courts across the state performed adoption ceremonies, with a big celebration at the Supreme Court in Lansing.
It was an exciting day for several families across the state as they officially welcomed new family members into their home.
That included one family in Kalamazoo - that grew by three Tuesday.
“Today, I think I got closure - and I know I have a loving family that I can go home to,” 13-year-old Sarah Cady said.
Her new father, 36-year-old Tyler Cady, says he always knew he wanted to make a difference in the lives of children. “My grandma told me actually - before she passed away - that it was a part of my destiny to adopt,” he said.
That brought Sarah - and her 10-year-old brother Isaiah - into his life as foster children.
“My lifestyle changed quite a bit,” he said. “Homework and weekends aren’t always there to go do what you want - which is, of course, fine.”
Though Tyler admits he sometime uses Google to help the kids with their homework, the siblings knew it was the right fit.
"It’s actually quite amazing," Sarah said. "I have grown to know my family a lot better and I’ve actually experienced a lot more."
Tyler was a single man with two foster children when he met 14-year-old ‘J.J.’ - and he says right then he knew there was room for one more.
"J.J. came and spent the weekend with us," Tyler said. "We fell in love with him, so we knew from day one we wanted to be able to adopt him."
“This is like the best place I could ever be at," J.J. said. "(Tyler) helps me when I fall and even if I make the mistake again he helps me back up."
On Tuesday, Isaiah, Sarah and J.J. officially became Cadys.
“No one can ever take them away from me,” Tyler said. “I’m glad to see that they’re so excited and feel so supported because I know I`m the blessed one.”
Tyler admits it’s not always perfect - and it’s not always easy.
"I think every day is unique," he said. "Some days are great days. You know, life always plays a factor into things. Some days, life is extremely stressful. Sometimes we all have a lot on our plate."
But he says each day is worth it.
Tyler has become an advocate - helping to teach others about the benefits of adoption. He tells potential parents that adoption doesn’t a cost a thing - and that financial help is available.
The newly expanded Cady family says they’re excited to move forward officially - without any more red tape or visits; Just the four of them doing what families do. In their case: spending time out on the lake and eating a lot of ice cream.
Showing families come in all shapes and sizes - with love as the only requirement.
"You don’t need a mom and a dad," Sarah said." "You need someone to love you."
“We have Sarah, J.J. and Isaiah to carry on our family name and we continue,” Tyler said.
"And I couldn`t possibly be more proud."
If you’re interested in adopting any child through the Michigan Foster System – call Orchards Children’s Services at 855-694-7301.
