Maisy

Six-year-old Maisy, a young musical theatre fan, is one of eight adopted children in the Kiefer family. Her mother Michelle describes Maisy's journey home:

"Born in Northern California, Maisy was addicted to heroin at birth. She spent time in the pediatric ICU and then at home going through withdrawals. Maisy also had several other serious health challenges, multiple surgeries, and was in and out of the hospital for the first few years of her life. At one point she was near death when an unknown abscess next to her heart deteriorated her sternum.

Thankfully Maisy's health has drastically improved in the last couple of years, but she continues to have ongoing medical needs. Even now, accessing her G-tube is still a part of her daily life, but that doesn't slow her down. When her peers notice her G-tube and ask her about it, she is always happy to show it off and tell them what it is. 'Overcomer,' 'Miracle,' 'Fighter,' and 'Survivor,' are just a few words that are often used to describe this sweet young lady."

The first-grader excels in her classroom, demonstrating early on a love for learning.
Michelle says that "when praised for her accomplishments, her response is usually 'Duh!' The sass level is off the charts!"

At home, Maisy likes being read to, belting along to the musical Annie's "Tomorrow," and watching "Into the Woods," her other favorite musical. Outside, Maisy practices swinging as high as she can, making her family "a nervous wreck," Michelle says. No fear... she has no fear."

We asked what Michelle would say to a parent considering adopting a child with Down syndrome:
"GO FOR IT! Every child is a blessing. To have the privilege of being entrusted with the opportunity to parent a child with Down syndrome, to me, feels sacred. She is our pearl of great price... our treasure!"