From First Steps to Lasting Love: Manuel’s Story

At almost a year old, Manuel had never known the love of a family. Born to a mother struggling with drug addiction, he was placed in an orphanage immediately after birth.

For the first 11 months of his life, Manuel was cared for by a rotating staff of employees. While his basic needs—food, clothing, and shelter—were met, he lacked the stability, nurture, and individual attention only a family can provide. Even the best-run orphanages cannot replicate the love and healthy attachment formed inside families. 

As a result, children raised in institutional care often fall behind in nearly every area of development. Manuel was no exception. As he approached his first birthday, he was underweight, not yet crawling, and unable to eat solid foods. He showed little emotion—even when hungry or uncomfortable—and would reach out to be held by anyone, even strangers.

Like so many children growing up in institutional care, Manuel’s future was uncertain. But in November of last year, everything changed when he was welcomed into the home and hearts of a loving foster family. 

Hope and Health

At first, Manuel was unsettled in his new environment. But his foster parents patiently comforted him, showing him that he was safe and cared for. Concerned about his growth, they began regular visits with a pediatrician and nutritionist, introducing solid foods and encouraging him to try new things.

Within just a week, his muscle tone improved, and he began to crawl. Soon after, he was pulling himself up and standing—an incredible sign of progress in such a short time.

New Strength, New Skills

Over the next few months, Manuel continued to make tremendous strides. He gained weight, grew stronger, and even began walking with assistance—recently taking his very first independent steps!

His emotional growth was just as impressive. He started crying when he needed something, learning that his needs would be met. His language skills began to develop, and he became more sociable, waving and maintaining eye contact as he interacted with others. At the same time, he slowly discovered the security of turning to his foster parents for comfort instead of strangers.

Discovering Joy

Through the love of a family, Manuel’s world has been completely transformed. Once unable to express emotion, he now fills his days with laughter, often dancing and singing along to music. Most importantly, he has learned to trust and bond with his family.

Recently, Manuel was adopted by his forever family. Because of you, he will grow up safe, loved, and surrounded by the support he needs to thrive. Thank you for changing Manuel’s life and giving him hope for the future.

Leave a Legacy of Family

Stories like Manuel’s are a beautiful reminder of the legacy of family. If you’d like to leave a legacy of love, hope, and family for more children like him, now is the perfect time. August is National Make-A-Will Month—a great opportunity to think about what matters most.

Your legacy can reach beyond your lifetime to ensure orphaned and vulnerable children grow up in loving families for years to come. Including a gift to The Hope Effect in your will is one of the most meaningful ways to ensure your values live on.

We’ve recently launched a new Legacy Giving page—a simple resource that explains how to include a gift in your will and the powerful difference it can make for children in need.

Thank you for your continued generosity and support. Together, we are changing the way the world cares for orphans.

*The child’s name has been changed to protect his privacy.