Sandra and Michael are two very inspiring foster care veterans. They’ve been fostering for over 12 years, providing short term placement for 17 children. Since 2010 they’ve also provided permanent care for two brothers with special needs, Brock and Jordan, who they adopted in May 2021.

It’s hard not to feel a sense of awe when you see what a normal week looks like for Michael and Sandra. In addition to supporting the needs of their three biological adult children, they provide intensive support for Brock and Jordan, plus additional children requiring short-term or emergency care.

Michael also works nightshift and Sandra manages school, medical appointments, the family home and parental contact. Sandra says she doesn’t think they’re amazing, “We just have something to offer and what we’ve gained as a family unit is incredible.”

She said, “I love to help kids that have been put in a position they didn’t ask for, I just want to help them heal.”

“People always say they couldn’t do what we do because they couldn’t say goodbye,” she said. “But I love seeing these children enjoy their time with us and then return to their family home or go on to find a forever home, which is emotional but so incredibly fulfilling.”

Raising children who have experienced trauma can be both difficult and very rewarding and the carers often need support and guidance through the tough times.

The support network starts with the CatholicCare case manager, to the team of a psychologist, carer support staff, comprehensive training sessions and carer support groups.

Michael said, “I can’t say enough how good CatholicCare has been to us, they’ve far exceeded our expectations.” He said, “It’s given our whole family a better understanding of one another and brought us closer together.”