DePaul Annual Report 25-26

Forming A Family Story by Alison Wickline-Burns | Photos by Ryan Raines Photo

“For us, this journey has reshaped our hearts in the deepest ways,” said Derrick. “It has taught us what unconditional love really looks like—not based on circumstances, outcomes, or biology, but on the daily choice to be there and care.” The Pattersons’ journey to become a family of six has been challenging and life changing, a beautiful testament to the faith they hold in their hearts. It was also a testament to the lasting impact of a safe, loving family for children in need. “Because of the love and covering I received as an adopted child, we felt led to extend that same love to others—children whom God places in our lives for a season or a lifetime,” said Kati. While there was no question that Derrick and Kati were being called to become foster parents, there was consideration of how it would affect their biological child, Hadleigh. They knew that foster care came with unknowns and they recognized how that could impact Hadleigh’s kind, gentle heart. But they trusted her and trusted that DePaul’s foster care team would be there for the whole family through all the ups and downs. “When she was first interviewed during the process, the words spoken over her were, ‘She has the biggest heart and it may hurt through this process,’” said Derrick. “That has proven true, but her willingness to share that heart has been a gift to every child who has entered our home. With her brothers and sister, Hadleigh has shown unwav ering love, embracing them not as foster siblings but as her own.” The Pattersons first welcomed Tyler into their home. He came from a broken place, both emotion

ally and physically. He was grieving the loss of his great-grandmother, the one person who had shown him steady love. It took time, consistency, and encouragement, but soon Tyler found peace and healing with the Pattersons. Then, Kayden and Kendall came into their home carrying trauma and fear. They needed stability and a place where they could find comfort and calm. In the Pattersons’ warm, loving, nurturing home, three children’s lives changed and a forever family of six formed. “It has been one of the greatest privileges of our lives to walk with them through this journey—to fight for them, to celebrate their victories, and to watch their resilience as they grow into the amazing young people they are becoming,” said Derrick. Derrick and Kati are honest about the difficulties their family has faced during this journey. “Foster care comes with unknowns and as a family, we often must live with both hope and heartbreak at the same time,” said Derrick. “Each struggle has stretched us, deepened our compassion, and reminded us of the importance of showing up day after day.” And they remain humble about the heart-heal ing, life-changing role they played and continue to play in these children’s lives. They praise their faith, their family, their community, and DePaul for building these unbreakable bonds. “They don’t just place children in homes—they surround families with the resources, wisdom, and support needed to help children heal and thrive,” said Kati. “For us, the best part of working with DePaul has been the way they see the whole child, not just the circumstances.”

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