Guess what we had today? After lurking on the boards for two and a half years, a few posts and a very long protracted court process which was contested all the way, we finally had our CELEBRATION HEARING today and are a family!!!! It was a very surreal thing, but the Judge was lovely. DC was happy to sit in Judge's chair and pose for pics and receive a name certificate. We had a lovely meal and celebration cake afterwards with the friends and family that came to the court, then out to a play area with other friends. DC was super good all day which made it even better. I really thought at points we would never get to this stage and feel like a ton weight has been lifted. Now, as a wise mumsnet poster told me, to enjoy family life free of SWs, HVs, panels and assessments hopefully.
I don't think I would have got through it if it hadn't been for all the information posted on this forum. It really is a fantastic form of support. Thanks everyone, even if you are completely unaware of how helpful you have been
