Adoption of Elijah.

Please help support our family as we unexpectedly go through the very expensive process of adopting baby Elijah. We are blessed to have been asked by a dear friend if we would adopt her precious, unborn baby boy, who will be born May 15th. We are beyond thrilled to be able to grow our family through the gift of adoption, but we have a few challenges to get through in order to bring our son home. Mainly, he is due to be born very soon, this means we have had no time to save money, or do any of this slowly over time. We are finding out how unbelievably involved and expensive the adoption process is, and unfortunately there are not a ton of resources out there to help ease the financial burden. Our lawyer,who has been fantastic thus far, has said to expect to pay around $10,000+ by the time everything is finalized. His retainer alone is $4000, he is allowing us to make weekly payments, but it's still a challenge for us to make those. We drained what little savings we had in order to get the adoption started, and we still have a lot left to do in a very short period of time.  My husband, children, and I all feel strongly that this baby is meant to be in our family, and we are going on faith that things will continue to work out, but that also means we need to ask our friends, family, and even strangers for help in order to make this adoption happen. Every single donation means so very much to us, but more importantly it will mean the world to Elijah. For those that don't know us well:  My husband and I have been married 17 years and have four beautiful children together ages 10-17yrs. I had complications with my fourth pregnancy and they recommended for me to not have anymore pregnancies. Eric and I have always loved children and wanted a big family, we absolutely love being parents and have centered our careers around helping people and working with children. We have talked about possibly adopting one day since we were first dating, and more seriously the last few years. Finances being the main thing that prevented us from pursuing it. Unfortunately, Eric was seriously injured several years ago, and after multiple failed surgeries including a total hip replacement, he was devastated to learn he will no longer be able to work. This leaves us currently with one income, and in the way to long process of fighting for disability. About 2.5 years ago we were asked if we would be willing to foster my nephew, we of course took him in without a second thought. He is back with his mom and siblings now (though we still see him frequently) he has been such an unexpected blessing and brought our family so much laughter and joy. Having him in our lives cemented the decision that we did want to foster or adopt if possible. Then the unexpected came, and we are again jumping in without hesitation for this child, but we needs others to do the same and so we are humbled as we ask for help. Every donation is and will be so very appreciated, all money will go directly towards the adoption, and this baby's needs. Any support at all makes such a huge difference, donating money or your time fundraising, sharing this fundraiser, or sending positive words, and prayers, that this baby, our baby comes home as a permanent part of this family. I can't thank everyone enough!