The Heroism of Fostering: Sunshine

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I’ve heard it said that people foster because they have a bigger heart than a brain.

I met Richelle in Thailand/Cambodia for RPTE 2009. Shortly after, we met up with a bunch of photogs for RPTE 2010: China. Not that I’m her father or anything (heck, I’m younger, I think ;), but she’s grown into someone we’re incredibly proud to know.

Apart from greetings between friends, Richelle’s first statement to us was “yeah, there’s a reason it takes two people to create a baby…” That’s right; Richelle is a single foster mom… and a full time photographer. Hero.

So Richelle gave me a nice challenge. Foster children must remain unidentified on the internet — so no photos with Sunshine’s face. Sick of not having any photos to share of the two of them, Richelle asked if I could try and get some anonymous images. Showing the beauty and selflessness of fostering while maintaining anonymity is a little tricky — but I’ve been in love with fostering and adoption since I was a child. I knew I’d enjoy the experience :)

I grew up staying at my “Tia’s” house — and while “Tia” means “Aunt” in Spanish, my Tia was a robust and vivacious black woman on the poor side of town with tons of foster kids, the sweetest smile around, and a heart of pure gold. I hold foster parents right up there with military families that sacrifice years away at a time.

Richelle, I hope these images help you see what a wonderful thing it is that you’re doing ;)