While February 4th was the day that Penny and Steve Kerr officially welcomed Sophie to their family, their bond goes back to the moment they met. There was an instant connection when Sophie came to their front door at only three months old. “For a couple of days, we just sat in awe of this little baby,” said Penny. “We fell right in love with her.”
Over the next few years, the Kerrs saw Sophie’s caring nature flourish. Sophie already had great emotional intelligence, with a strong desire to brighten the spirits of those around her. “She loves talking to new people. Before the pandemic, there was one time when we were out shopping and Sophie saw an elderly man sitting by himself on a bench,” remembered Penny. “She walked over and started talking to him. After they talked a little bit and we went to leave, the man told me how she had made his day.”
Her parents mentioned that Sophie was making valentines for friends and family while they were answering questions for this interview. She chimed into the conversation from time to time when she heard her name, giggling as her parents discussed her.
It was not always easy for Sophie, Penny, and Steve, though. Sophie became very ill a few months after arriving at the Kerr home. “We spent about 49 straight days in the hospital, then a few two-week stints for the rest of the year,” Steve said. It was a difficult time for everyone, but one that saw the family come together. “Our bond with her grew incredibly strong during that time.”
“I’ve heard people tell me that they don’t think they are strong enough to be foster parents,” Penny explained. “I never would have thought I could do the things that I have done for Sophie. I want everyone to know that you are stronger than you ever thought you could be. You are helping a little heart become a person.”
Now that the adoption is complete, the Kerr family is looking forward to what is to come in the future. They said that, after being unable to travel for the past year, they hope to be able to visit family and friends with Sophie soon. “It’s hard to believe that [the adoption] finally happened after everything we’ve been through,” said Steve.
With clear pride in her voice, Penny beamed, “We are so happy we will be able to watch her grow and see the person she will become.”
Given her strength of character, there is no doubt that Sophie will continue to brighten everyone around her.
