Volunteer

About Choose Joy 2016

Over the last five years our family has adopted two little girls after seven years of secondary infertility. We walked a very long and painful journey, but I would re-live every single second we spent on that road seven times over to bring our daughters into our family. God used those seven years to refine me as an individual and us as a family, and taught us that we need to love Him despite our circumstances and trust His plan even when it is different than our own.

Our story is one of high highs and low lows, of loss, despair, hope, joy, and ultimately of two miracles. When we thought we couldn't afford to spend one more penny, God provided, and we were able to complete a $35k adoption. And another $45k one two years later.

One of the things that has always really frustrated me is the fact that the cost of fertility treatments and adoption can make these options unattainable for some families. It is the salt in the wounds of infertility, and it is the reason so many children are without a home.  Since experiencing this painful reality myself, I have felt that at some point in my life I would become an advocate for these families.  In 2012 God made it clear that the time had come for me to step up to the plate. And the Choose Joy Event was born.

Our first event in February of 2013 was amazing. It was truly one of the most incredible days of my life. I didn't think we could top it, but then our second event in May of 2014 was even more incredible!  So much goodness jam packed into one day... so much that we have actually decided to make Choose Joy 2015 a two day event.  And what a phenomenal two days it was.  I find it hard to put into words what it is like to be in a room full of like-minded people who just get that thing that has caused you so much pain... to not have to explain or defend your grief, but to just feel understood... it is a unique experience.  At the 2015 Conference there was a subtle {but awesome and important} shift that took place as the men really stepped in as participants and not just attendees at Choose Joy. 

We are so excited about what 2016 brings for our conference!  It is sure to be the best one yet.  Please join us and find your community.