I have had many people email me asking for an update on our situation with Sweet Pea.
Below is the best update I can give, at this point in time.
1. Sweet Pea is currently living in an orphanage in Islamabad, Pakistan called Edhi Home. Our Sweet Pea has been in Edhi Home now for 145 days (5 months). She is now 8 months old! At this point, I pray for just a picture of her. I grieve for the time missed with her!
2. I currently still have a legal guardianship order, but I cannot bring my baby girl home due to the child trafficking case. And, because of this . . . Sweet Pea does not have a valid orphan status per USCIS guidelines (section 204.3).
3. If Sweet Pea's orphan status can eventually be established through USCIS . . . And, my PAP status is established through USCIS . . . YES, I will definitely continue the adoption and bring this precious baby girl home.
4. I am parenting from afar, doing the best I can to insure that Sweet Pea is well taken care of. I have formula/diapers delivered to the orphanage for her continued care. And, I plan to send care boxes to Edhi Home to help with her clothing needs.
5. The child trafficking case is still under investigation by the Pakistan Federal Investigative Agency (FIA). I'm told that it will be finished "in the near future". I have been told this just recently (last week) and I was also told this in Oct 2009. Pakistan law enforcement moves very slow! There has been no real movement forward in the case since Oct 2009.
6. 4 individuals (from my case) have been arrested and are awaiting trial for the child trafficking case. I cannot share details, but yes, Sadeem Shargeel, is one of the individuals in custody.
7. At this point, I have no contact from Lighthouse Adoptions, Inc. (my US adoption agency). Again, I cannot share details.
8. Yes, I do have legal representation - 3 attorneys total (2 US & 1 Pakistan). With the help of attorneys, we are trying to move all cases forward to resolution, timely and quickly. But, I have to remind myself that I'm the one that has the passion for this case (only like a mama can!). Of course, nothing moves fast enough. I pray for guidance and patience everyday!
9. Nicky - We have had a few rough months! Initially, he was very, very sad and confused. With lots of TLC and lots of grace for a little boy's "acting out" episodes, we have finally turned the corner. He is doing much better in school and looking forward to soccer and baseball!
10. Mama - I've tied a knot in my "life rope" and I am hanging on tight! The last few months have been very painful and I'm getting through each day the best I can. Adoption remediation is extremely stressful and I now have an understanding and empathy for this type of situation that I never had before. Only those that have gone through it truly understand. It is emotionally life-changing . . . There simply are no appropriate words to describe it . . .
I am hoping that I can truly share specific details soon. I am waiting on the final FIA report from Pakistan before I do this. I know everyone understands my caution . . .
I appreciate all prayers/positive thoughts for my family. Please continue to pray specifically for Sweet Pea! And, that her orphan status will be resolved soon!
. . . and above all else,
In all that I do for my daughter, one prayer remains constant - "Lord, in all Decisions for this Child - let the Best Interests of the Child Shine Through!"
The last few moments I had with my precious baby girl, I prayed a mother's blessing over her . . . And, I know that God holds her gently in the palm of His hand . . .
Mama
A Touch of Justice
12 years ago
10 comments:
Nancy, Thank you for the update. Please know that you all are in many peoples' thoughts and prayers. I like others check in and continue to pray for that miracle for you.
MaryLee
Oh, Nancy, thank you for this update. I've been checking in regularly, hoping and praying each time that this would be the day you received the news you're longing for. We've never met but I've been holding you & yours in my heart these past months. It sounds like there is still hope, which is a wonderful thing to hear! I will continue to pray for strength and comfort for you, loving care for Sweet Pea, and a happy ending for everyone!
Nancy,
I have followed your story from your FRUA updates. I have cried along side you and prayed for your family.
I will continue to hope and pray you will be reunited with your sweetpea soon...
Aleksmom...
Nancy... I am so encouraged that there is hope... and I won't forget you or give up on hoping your sweet pea home. Your courage and strength continues to shine through - what an amazing example of a mother and an incredible woman you are for your Niki and for all of us out here in blogger land. If anyone can move these mountains it is you and your faith. Right here with you from far away. In thoughts, prayers and the highest hopes you can imagine. Right here with you :)
Stacey
I'll add another thank you for the update. I think of you often and have kept you in my prayers.
Nancy,
You have shown such grace through this whole thing. I think about you and pray for you often.
Nancy, I can't tell you how many times I keep checking your blog hoping for some good news on your adoption. You will still be in my prayers.
Thank You for the update. I remain hopeful that you and SweetPea will be reunited.
Blessings!
Maria
So glad to see an update! You are a strong woman/mama! Praying you bring your baby girl home!
Nancy--I have been following your story and so happy to hear your update. I will pray that Marina Grace will come home to you soon. Cindy (another SMC to an adorable Russian boy!)
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