We are looking for a loving adoptive family for an adorable 1-year-old boy name Lucas*.
Lucas was born in February of 2022 and has been diagnosed with Chromosomal Deletion 5Q14.3 MEF2C. Chromosomal Deletion 5Q14.3 MEF2C is a rare genetic condition characterized by severe intellectual disability, absent speech, stereotypical movement, and epilepsy. Lucas has been raised in a loving two-parent family since birth. His parents feel that they do not have the emotional or financial resources needed to fully provide for all that Lucas needs long-term. They are actively looking for a permanent family for their son that will be able to meet his needs and provide the unconditional love he deserves.
Lucas was born in New York and has lived with his parents since birth. He has been receiving, in the home, Speech Therapy (4 times a week), Occupational Therapy and Physical therapy (2 times a week) and Special Instruction through early intervention (2 times a week). Lucas is also receiving Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy (2 times a week) for the past 3 months at a specialized hosptial. Lucas’ mother also has been coached to perform daily gentle message to activate muscles and improve sensory processing. In March of 2023 Lucas had one seizure and is currently on Levetiracetam.
Lucas is eating well. He currently weighs 16 pounds, 6 ounces. He loves to eat pureed fruits, vegetables, rice, lentils (½ cup for lunch and ½ cup for dinner). He can also eat small baby snacks (½ star at a time) and drinks 8ml of formula every 3 to 4 hours. Lucas is also learning to drink from a straw.
Lucas loves toys that make noises and when he hears them, he moves his arms and legs with excitement and tries to reach for them. He likes to babble and make noises. He smiles and maintains occasional eye contact. He loves going in his stroller and going outside and he enjoys having a bath.
Lucas’ parents are looking to make an open adoption plan for their son through Spence-Chapin’s Special Needs Adoption Program. Lucas’ parents have shared that they want to find a loving family that can provide all the attention, time, care, and access to resources that Lucas needs.
If you would like to be considered as a forever family through Spence-Chapin’s Domestic Special Needs Adoption Program, please submit our free Domestic Special Needs Adoption Pre-Application and send us a copy of your current home study (home visit completed within the past 12 months), conducted by a licensed adoption agency. Families living anywhere in the United States are welcome to apply. We are unable to consider families that do not have a current home study, or a home study completed by an independent social worker.
*Name has been changed. In order to maximize the placement opportunities for Lucas, his birth parents have authorized Spence-Chapin Services to Families and Children to post this non-identifying description of him on the Waiting Children page of Spence-Chapin’s website.
