The Edwards family and their close relatives have made an annual family event coming to the St. Joe’s picnic together since their involvement with the foster care and adoptive program. The Edwards became involved with St. Joe’s Foster Care and Adoption program in March of 2008 with the intention of adoption. Their wish was granted within a few days after completing the certification process with the arrival of Billie Joe. Billie Joe was adopted by the Edwards on National Adoption Day in 2008. Shortly thereafter, Martika was placed in their home in February of 2009. Martika and her two sisters (twins) had to be placed separately due to their history of disrupted placements. Martika had a very unstable placement and abuse history spanning several years. Martika has been able to maintain the bond with her sisters via visitation thanks to their common ties with St. Joe’s. Martika was adopted in March of 2010. Martika experienced several hospitalizations on the road to adoption, and the whole family worked very hard in her treatment to believe in her forever family. At her adoption, the judge allowed her to bang the gavel signifying the finalization of her adoption.

Now that they have expanded their family, Mrs. Edwards enjoys her new occupation as a stay-at-home mother and Mr. Edwards, pilot, is able to provide the girls with unique travel experiences. Mrs. Edwards’ mother, the girls’ grandmother, is also one of the St. Joe’s “Sewing Ladies” who works on the quilts for the picnic.

Martika experienced several hospitalizations on the road to adoption, and the whole family worked very hard in her treatment to believe in her forever family. At her adoption, the judge allowed her to bang the gavel signifying the finalization of her adoption.