FANA Tour

Where to begin....a tour of FANA was an experience I will never forget.  The current building is not where I actually stayed but newly built a little over 18 years ago.  It was built by Mercedes (director of FANA) husband with his engineering background.  The building is amazing with plenty of room for infants, FANA children who reside there permanently, and local children who come there for school.  It is hard to believe that is was built by 100% private donation.  FANA does not receive any funding from the government and was established by Mercedes after having adopted two daughters of her own.  Out of the kindness of her heart she has created a home for children that is loving in every aspect of the word.  Don't get me wrong it was very hard to see all the babies alone in their cribs but that is just a stop to their "Forever Homes".  FANA is also located in a poorer part of the city where families need more help and that is why a school is also run out of the facility.   This upcoming February there will be a celebration of FANA's 40th Anniversary.  It will be very special to be able to participate and meet others like myself.  Flor (another founder) spoke with all of us on our visit and was so touched that I had come back.  She was also working at FANA at the time of my adoption.  She said that I was the 7th adoptee to come back and adopt.  FANA has placed over 9,500 children and has helped a total of 14,000 whether through schooling or with family social welfare.  I could go on and on but will let some of picture below do the talking for me:

 Some of the FANA children

 My Family with Flor

 The Room where all the decisions are made :)

 Nursery

 A room similar to where Michael would have stayed

"Tree of Life" a symbol of FANA

I hope the above post makes what adoption is all about a little more real, it did for me.  I am so grateful to have the life that I do and pray that Michael will grow up feeling just as blessed. Speaking of Michael he did not accompany us on the tour due to the germs he might have picked up and would bring back.  He was well cared for none the less.  He will get to return with us for the 40th Anniversary celebration.  Until then...Hasta Luego!
Luv, Kristin