Las Vegas NowAdoption Dreams Come True for Families

Adoption Dreams Come True for Families

Hundreds of children are in Clark County's foster care system waiting to be part of a loving, stable family. For more than 80 children, dreams of a forever home came true Thursday.

It was an emotional and happy day in Family Court. The picture speaks for itself. Adoptive mother Theresa Serianni held her baby girl close to her chest. "The first time I held her, I was like, ‘Oh my God. My heart melted,'" she said.

Theresa and her husband have two biological children and then decided to adopt two more. Although they've had little Jasmine since she just a few days old, today holds special meaning. "Today means no one can take them away from us. They are ours. When we walk out, we walk out as a family, not two separate names. They're ours and they are ours for good," said Serianni.

And like Jasmine, more than 80 other children walked out of court rooms with places to call home for good.

Judge Cynthia Giuliana says Family Court is usually a place filled with heartbreak and anguish, but this day is different. "It's a day where we see miracles happen for children who have not had the benefit of strong family ties. They get the warmth and love and hopefulness that will lead to a bright future," she said.

Richard and Katherine Van Diepen adopted Isabella and Gabreilla before they even tried having children. They say many people may think they blessed the girls, but it's the girls who bless them. "We just give them something more stable, but we are excited we get to be their mom and dad forever. That's thee exciting thing," said Katherine.  =

For many parents, today was both a happy ending and a beautiful beginning. "We walk out those doors and she is a Serianni like the rest of us," said Serianni.

If you are interested in adopting and would like to get started in the process, call the local office of the Adoption Exchange right now at 436-6335. Many of the caseworkers say this is a beautiful day, but also a reminder there are so many others kids waiting for homes.