Rebecca Clifford, 46, and her late husband, Gus, married in 2015 and fostered 12 kids beginning in 2019. They always hoped to adopt one of these children, but didn’t get the chance until they met Daniel.
Daniel came to them from a physically abusive household. At just three months old, he had “bilateral skull fractures and fractured ribs,” Rebecca explained. “He was on seizure medicine, but he was only on the medication for a short period of time, until they were sure he was not going to have seizures from his injuries.” The Cliffords took Daniel to all of his doctor appointments and stayed with him through his in-home therapy. Most importantly, they gave him a safe, loving home.
Daniel had a half-sister that came along with him, but she was able to be reunited with a family member out of state.
After the Cliffords began the adoption process with Daniel, they received heartbreaking news. Gus had collapsed from a seizure and was later diagnosed with glioblastoma, a fatal type of brain cancer that has thus far remained untouched by most cancer treatments. Gus fought for 10 months, but passed away Thanksgiving morning of 2022, at age 56.
“This wasn’t my plan… I didn’t want to be a single mother. But I love God and Jesus and I prayed and prayed and prayed,” Rebecca shared.
Still in the midst of the adoption process, Rebecca knew she needed follow through with the dream she and Gus shared. On November 6, 2023, Daniel became a member of the Clifford family. They were surrounded with love and support from their church and community.
Rebecca intends to teach this active and happy little two-and-a-half-year-old just how amazing his adoptive father was. “I want him to know how fun his dad was, how outgoing he was and try to teach him ― with the help of the men at church ― as much as I can… Even now he’s learning to open doors for the ladies like Gus did. He’s my beautiful blessing.”
It was due to the support and strength of her community that Rebecca felt able to continue with Daniel’s adoption and make even more memories with him.
“… Daniel is just such a joy to be around, and even when I’m sad he does things to make me laugh,” Rebecca said.
Adoption through the foster care system gave Daniel a chance at a healthier and safer life — and one full of love. Countless adoption stories have had this same effect on others. Adoption gives hope — not just to adoptive parents, but to the children waiting for forever families.
