Morgan entered foster care when she was seven years old. Often moving between foster homes, she developed panic attacks and struggled with feelings of abandonment. When she was 13, she was placed with a family that seemed to promise stability, even if Morgan felt she couldn’t be herself around them. But by the time Morgan was 15, the placement had failed. Morgan ended up in a group home and was now self-harming. That’s when the county referred her to Stanford Sierra Youth & Families.

Corina, a social worker at Stanford Sierra, established a relationship with Morgan. She also made sure Morgan received the behavioral health support she needed. In the meantime, Stanford Sierra looked for a family who could meet Morgan’s needs, who could provide her the permanent, unconditionally loving family she deserved. 

After years of trying to start a biological family, Tristan and Kimberly Vella decided to pursue adoption. With Morgan’s permission, Corina scheduled a brief initial meeting between her and the Vellas. And then a few more.  At one point, while meeting at a park, the Vellas brought one of their pet dogs, a Labrador named Maxi, who was deaf. Morgan always made sure Maxi could see her before petting her. The two quickly bonded.

With continued support from Stanford Sierra, Morgan moved in with the Vellas a year ago during the pandemic. The three of them have begun the adoption process. Morgan feels secure enough around Tristan and Kimberly to be herself around them. They have embraced her with acceptance and love. Morgan’s panic attacks are less frequent now, but when they do occur Maxi goes to Morgan’s side. Morgan pets Maxi, slows her breathing, and reminds herself that she’s okay now.  She’s safe and at home.

*Names have been changed to protect confidentiality.