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Original poster

Tonight I am packing a suitcase while my heart aches

187 replies

bloodywhitecat · 01/06/2020 18:43

And I have a huge lump in my throat, you see the case I am packing is the case of 3 year old Dear Foster Child and all being well DFC moves in with their new family at the end of this week. We have shared a year together, a year in which the terrified child who hid at every sound, who wouldn't say 'Boo' to a goose, who wouldn't ask for food but would guard it has become a more confident, funny little person. The child who was terrified of other children and would freeze, rooted to the spot if another child came near is popular at preschool and frequently says "My friend xxxx".

I have seen DFC with their new family and it is absolutely the right thing for them but my heart is breaking just a little (and please don't say "I couldn't do that, I'd get too attached", the whole point is you do get too attached. How else could you parent them?).

Selfishly I am dreading the day they go because I can't even have a hug from a friend but I know this is the right time for this to be happening for DFC.

OP posts:
Greenfinger555 · 01/06/2020 20:16

Also crying. What an amazing gift you have given them OP x

Soontobe60 · 01/06/2020 20:16

You'll have made such a huge difference to your DFC, more than you'll probably know. Now it's time for you to be free for another little one who needs your love xxx

june2007 · 01/06/2020 20:16

Well done, it sounds like you have really done your job, I worry about how the child will feel leaving you however but if they are going to a forever home that's great. There will be others who need you.

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3 year olds Families
feelingfragile · 01/06/2020 20:21

Our boys foster mum was exactly the same as you. She adored her gorgeous boys and was the most amazing woman who gave them the best start in life. She saved them in so many ways and we are forever grateful to her and her husband.

We kept in touch for years and even though the boys are too young to remember living there, they know how important and incredible these people are.

Thank you so much for giving yourself to this little one ThanksThanks

RaininSummer · 01/06/2020 20:24

You have done a wonderful thing. Thank you.

spongedog · 01/06/2020 20:24

Flowers and a bigBear hug

thornyhousewife · 01/06/2020 20:24

What an incredible, selfless thing to do. Thank you.

Dagnabit · 01/06/2020 20:24

Wow, there’s a huge lump in my throat. It will be a tough day but what an amazing thing you have done for this little person. Have a virtual hug from me.

boredboredboredboredbored · 01/06/2020 20:26

My db and dsil foster newborns, every time one leaves it breaks their heart a little. You're all amazing people Thanks

mylittlesandwich · 01/06/2020 20:30

My DH still remembers his foster family and he was 4 when he was adopted. You'll have made a positive mark on his life. They strength you must have to help them through how they're felling whatever their previous circumstances were. You do such a wonderful thing.

LunchBoxPolice · 01/06/2020 20:32

This made me well up. Thank you for what you’ve done for that child. You are amazing.

lowlandLucky · 01/06/2020 20:32

Bless you, the world needs more people like you Flowers

Sunny4876 · 01/06/2020 20:37

I am sorry tou are sad and your heart is hurting but I'm joyful you are such a brilliant foster mum and every child who comes into your care will be loved.

findthelight · 01/06/2020 20:39

Made me have a bit of dust in my eye reading your post. Be very proud that you have given him so much confidence for his next stage. Bless you and your warmth and love Flowers

Thinkingabout1t · 01/06/2020 20:42

Sending hugs and Flowers
You have done something more wonderful than most people ever achieve. Thank you for your kindness.

Livebythecoast · 01/06/2020 20:43

No words will make it better. Thank you is all I can say Flowers

ShadowyFigure · 01/06/2020 20:44

I rarely cry but this made my eyes fill up. What a priceless gift you have given your DFC. One that will last forever too. I can’t imagine how bitter sweet this week must be for you. I don’t know what else to say other than to send you a virtual hug and handhold.

onetwothreeadventure · 01/06/2020 20:47

You are amazing OP

StewPots · 01/06/2020 20:47

You're an amazing person OP Thanks

Fandoozle1 · 01/06/2020 20:50

In tears here. You are wonderful OP. what a wonderful gift of love and joy you bring your foster children. X I'm sorry that you are hurting.

sassygromit · 01/06/2020 20:57

You sound quite lovely! Best of luck to the wee one, and to you too!

rockingthelook · 01/06/2020 20:58

Crying here too, you are one of life's true gifts for children like this, God bless your aching heart, I admire you so much !

LizzieB72 · 01/06/2020 20:58

It is the hardest and the best bit of being a Foster parent. You know what? - you have done an amazing job, that young person has had their life changed by you. FlowersWine.

Sexnotgender · 01/06/2020 21:00

OP thank you, you’re amazing Flowers you’ve given that terrified child a new start and that’s utterly priceless.

MeridianB · 01/06/2020 21:01

What a wonderful thing you have done, OP. Thank you so much for what you do and for sharing with us. Flowers