My name is Noel Andres, and I am 14 years old. I describe myself as a fun and loving boy ready to experience life and its many possibilities. My journey has not always been fun or an easy one. I was ten years old when my three younger sisters and I were placed in foster care. It was a difficult road for us, changing schools and homes, and many times I wondered where life would lead us. However, I was always hopeful that my sisters and I would be ok and find our forever family.
Unfortunately, multiple adoptions caused my sisters and me to be separated, but I remained positive that one day I would be in a loving family too.
I met my dad right before my 14th birthday. At that time, I had a different name and had high hopes of starting a new chapter. I was always looking for the right person to come into my life, spend quality time with me and create lasting memories.
"My dream and prayers for finding the right parent(s) have come true."
When I met my dad, I quickly learned we had a connection, and I felt like never before. I knew he would be the one to share life experiences with me. We share the same
Hispanic culture, love of food, and shopping, just to name a few. My dream and prayers for finding the right parent(s) have come true. As my adoption became finalized, I wanted to start a fresh new chapter, so I asked my dad if I could change my name. I felt that my name assigned at birth was not right for me. I chose a name that would make me feel powerful and confident about myself. Noel empowers and builds my confidence while my middle name honors my grandfather, who I loved so much when I was young, but also happens to be my new dad’s great grandfather’s name.
To anyone who may be reading my short story, I say to keep positive and fight for what you believe in. A family is not about DNA but about the love and care you feel and build together.
Since 2007, Barker has helped over 160 children find their forever family through the Project Wait No Longer- older child adoption from foster care program. If you are interested in learning more about this program or older child adoption, visit our program page here.