A Little Q&A

What kind of special needs does Jonathon have?

Jonathon had an infection in his skull that produced a cyst filled with 2 cups of pus. It was misdiagnosed and went untreated, forcing his the left lobe of his brain into the right side. After surgery he’s improved quickly. He is now 2 1/2 years old, eating liquids though a bottle, saying a few words, learning to walk and developing the ability to bond with a family. Current images of his brain show that it’s nearly normal, but it’s unknown how the previous brain trauma will affect his development.

Why was Jonathon abandoned?

Perhaps when the doctors told his family that Jonathon’s condition was terminal, they felt unable to cope with a dying child. This scenario is not uncommon in China.

Is Jonathon doing well?

Mostly, yes. He has been happy, involved, affectionate, eating, playing and sleeping normally. He still has many things to learn such as emotionally bonding to parents. A major concern is his aversion to eating.

How are Titus & Michael adapting to having a new brother?

Titus and Michael are relational and adaptable, so they felt comfortable when Jonathon joined the family.

What is the welfare center and what is the Butterfly Home?

The welfare center is an enormous Chinese state-run facility including orphanage and residences for elderly and disabled. The Butterfly Home is foreign-run children’s hospice located within the welfare center. They generally accept children with a life expectancy of 6 months or less.

Does the welfare center give you money?

The Chinese government allocates 800 RMB ($125 USD) monthly for each orphan. The arrangements aren’t clear and we aren't expecting any money. However, the Butterfly Home has kindly given us some of their Pediasure formula, which is Jonathon’s greatest expense.

Are you responsible for his medical costs?

We’ll take care of minor things. But if, for example, he needed another surgery this would not be our responsibility since he still 'belongs to the State'. As with all Butterfly Home kids, Jonathon’s past surgeries have been sponsored by donors who want to help disadvantaged children who have no family.

Why did you want to foster Jonathon?

After helping in the welfare center for a couple years, seeing several hundred orphans convicted us to do something – even if we can only help one.

How long is Jonathon staying with you?

Until he is adopted.

Why don’t you adopt him?

Chinese law states that adoptive parents must be 30 years old. We are 26 and 25.

When will he be adopted?

Perhaps in one or two years.

How does this affect your plans to visit the US?

Since Jonathon cannot leave the country, we are planning to stay here with him until he’s adopted.

What’s the benefit of Jonathon being in your home, rather than remaining in the Butterfly House, especially since he will transition to another family in the future?

A good family is always better than an orphanage, even if it is transitional. In our home he has an opportunity to bond with Daddy & Mommy, and is challenged to develop alongside healthy siblings.
Furthermore, taking Jonathon out of the Butterfly Home opened a crib allowing them to accept another 'terminally ill' boy named Finlay from the welfare center; now he may have a chance to live.


Please drop any other questions you may have in the 'reader response' box below or contact us: drew.addington@gmail.com.


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