Adoption Day 2022: Thank You!

On this day in 2000, I came home to join my family from Kolkata, India. The past 22 years have been an incredible journey. I’ve been blessed to have a fantastic community. I have a wonderful family, good friends, and many other wonderful people in my life.

My parents were there from day one. They raised me to be who I am today. They always made sure I had food to eat, clothes on my back, and a roof over my head. I had a wonderful childhood filled with bedtime stories, birthdays, Beatles music, and baking. They were there for doctor’s appointments, Botox injections, and operations. I’ll never be able to say thank you enough to my parents. I’m forever grateful for their love and support.

In addition, I’ve been fortunate to have loving grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Many of them were at Logan Airport when I arrived. They’ve always been there for me. I’ve been surrounded by love since the day that I came home. I never doubted that I was a cherished member of my family. I can’t put into words just how much I love all of my aunts, uncles, grandparents, and cousins. I looked forward to spending time with them growing up, and those memories I’ll always cherish.

In 2004, I became an older sister. I’ve had the pleasure of watching her grow up for 18 years. My sister graduated from high school earlier this month. I was so proud when I saw her get her diploma. I love her so much and can’t wait to see her enjoy the next chapter in her life. More than anything, I hope she knows how much I love her.

I’ve also known some fantastic teachers, therapists, doctors, and caregivers. It was a pleasure to have the teachers that I did. I learned so much from all of them. I am grateful that I was able to be a part of their classes. They all mean so much to me.

I’ve worked with some excellent doctors and therapists as well. Many of them I’ve known for years now. Living with Cerebral Palsy is much easier because of their dedication to me. The years of devotion and care they’ve shown me haven’t gone unnoticed.

I’ve also been blessed to have some amazing caregivers over the years. I had the same paraprofessional for ten years. I was always comforted by her presence while at school. She feels like family to me, and I’m glad she’s a part of my life. I’m forever grateful to every PCA and paraprofessional I’ve worked with.

I’ve had some fantastic friends over the years as well. They’ve seen me through so much, especially over the last few years. I know that they are always there for me. We’ve made memories that I’ll cherish for a lifetime. I am blessed to have them in my life.

I’m so blessed to be celebrating 22 years here in The United States. Massachusetts will always be home to me. I wouldn’t be where I am today without my community. Thank you for being a part of my life. Your support means the world to me.