From Hurt to Healing: David’s Story

Every child deserves to feel safe, valued, and deeply loved. For David, that journey began in the arms of a family.

David was placed into an orphanage when he was just eight months old. Tragically, he had suffered severe domestic violence in his biological home.

While in institutional care, David was thankfully able to heal physically. But like so many children in orphanages, he received care from a rotating staff alongside many other children—meaning he lacked the individual attention and nurturing environment necessary for emotional and developmental healing.

You see, while orphanages can provide food and shelter, even the best ones cannot replicate what is found within a loving family. Despite the staff’s best efforts, research shows that institutional care often leads to long-term physical, emotional, and psychological harm.

But at just over one year old, David’s life changed forever.

A New Beginning

At 15 months old, David was welcomed into the hearts and home of a loving foster family.

Physically, there were no lasting signs of the abuse he had endured. But emotionally and developmentally, the trauma of his first year was painfully evident.

David avoided eye contact and had a vacant stare. He didn’t smile or express emotion. His motor skills were also significantly delayed—he couldn’t crawl, stand, roll over, or even pick up objects with his hands. He struggled to move his head and couldn’t sleep through the night, often waking up crying.

But with patience and compassion, David’s foster family created an environment where he felt safe, secure, and loved. And the transformation was remarkable.

Baby Steps…

Just two months after arriving in his foster home, David began crawling, pulling himself up, and even taking a few small steps! He was sleeping more soundly and waking up happy. He started playing with stuffed animals and even tried climbing the crib bars to get out—signs of growing curiosity and confidence.

Emotionally, David began making incredible strides. He made eye contact, smiled, babbled, and even started using words like “cookie,” “water,” and “love.”

He especially loved bath time and was often laughing and joyful. He even enjoyed washing his hands and face!

…And Giant Leaps!

As David continued to grow in the care of his loving foster family, those baby steps of progress turned into giant leaps.

Just a few months later, he was not only walking—but running! His motor and cognitive skills developed to the point where he could follow instructions like picking up his toys or throwing items in the trash. He easily imitated what his foster parents taught him and soon began doing those things independently.

David’s vocabulary expanded, and in November, he began attending preschool. School has given him the chance to interact with other kids his age and continue building confidence in new environments. Where he was once fearful and hesitant, David now explores his surroundings with joy and curiosity.

A Life Transformed

David’s emotional growth has been just as remarkable. Today, he hugs and kisses his foster parents on the cheek, freely expressing affection and trust. He sees them as “safe people” and knows that he is safe, valued, and loved.

This transformation is only possible through the love of a family—and because of you. You have changed David’s life, and we are so grateful. Thank you for giving this beautiful little boy hope for the future.

Together, we are changing the way the world cares for orphans…because every child deserves a family.

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