Recently, Ark Mission completed the adoption of a child from Russia with Down syndrome. All adoptions are special, all adoptive families are special but we felt particularly Blessed to be a part of Zack’s adoption. The letter below was written by Sarah, the 11 year old sister of Zack.

Zachary, a Russian baby that has Down syndrome, is a blessing that came into our lives. He was lost waiting to be found. God knew that someday we would have Zach in our family. God expected it but our family had no idea what was coming.

One day my mom was on the internet looking at pictures of children. I had just got home from school and was wondering what she was doing. She told me that she had gotten an email that had a link to the Ark Mission website. She said that there were babies that had Down syndrome and that there was one that she was falling in love with. My heart beat like a roller coaster and I knew what that might mean and immediately started asking questions. The more my mom found out the more her heart throbbed.

A few weeks later we were adopting a precious little boy with Down syndrome. The paperwork was endless and we sometimes questioned ourselves, but we knew deep down this was one thing that was almost like destiny. My mom and dad finally went to Russia scared, excited, happy, and strange. When they came back they were ready to go pick him up the next day.

When they brought Zach home I was the first to hold him. If you are thinking about adopting, it is all worth that one special hug. That night when all of our company left, I got to hold Zach again. I broke down in tears thanking God for my little brother. Disabilities don't make anyone different. All the children in Zach's orphanage deserve to have a home. Down syndrome is not a bad thing to me at all. They might learn a little slower, but they have feelings and they can laugh and play and do anything that they want. If I had the chance, I would adopt every one of those kids. I was so happy to know that Zach was coming home to us. If you see the precious faces of those children and ask yourself if it is the right thing to do, just know that you could make a difference. You could help make a smile or a sound of a giggle. All they really need is love!

Children born with Down syndrome in Eastern Europe are almost always relinquished to an orphanage. Their future is very grim because they have little hope of being adopted by someone in there own country. They will not receive the necessary therapies or medical attention and are sent to live their lives in institutions. At Ark Mission we are committed to finding homes for children with Down syndrome. We would like to assist parents that would be willing to adopt these children with financial assistance in paying for adoption expenses. Even after fees for international adoption have been reduced for a special needs child, the cost can be difficult when budgeting for the future. Donations in any amount are accepted. Please consider helping one of these children find their forever family. If you are interested in adopting a child with Down syndrome or you would be willing to contribute to their future please contact Kim at info@specialadoption.com or (877) 213-1444.

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Anthony’s care taker wrote in his description that his charming personality has gotten the best of her. He was born in Aug. 1, 2003 and is diagnosed with Down syndrome. He also has a heart defect which is not uncommon for children with this syndrome.

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Dasha was admitted into the orphanage on May 19, 2004. She is diagnosed with Down syndrome, rickets and weak muscle development.

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The name Luka means “light” in Russia and that is exactly how his caretakers describe him. Luka was born in Feb. 2003. He is diagnosed with Down syndrome.

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Phil was admitted to the orphanage on 8.12.04. He is diagnosed with Down syndrome. In addition Phil has a double sided aorta, anemia and rickets.