WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING

“… Stefanie came into their lives in a manner that seems at first accidental, but ultimately foreordained.  Determined to fulfill their pledge to Stefanie’s dying mother, and fueled by their growing affection for Stefanie and hers for them, Claire and Stan navigate the reefs and shoals of New York family law toward the goal of adopting her.  “Twice Blessed” tells a valuable story about both the complexity of chosen family, and the simplicity of the love that undergirds it.” David Hansell, former Commissioner, NYC Administration for Children’s Services

“ … It is the story of a dying mother who gets to choose how her daughter will be raised. … It is the story of a girl’s resilience through devastation and instability. It is the story of a maddening journey through family court. Most of all, though, Twice Blessed is the story of a family forged through love."—Naomi Riley, Senior fellow, American Enterprise Institute and author of No Way to Treat a Child

“What makes Twice Blessed unique and important is how Stefanie, Claire and Stan’s individual experiences and perceptions create a fulsome, complete narrative.  Each of us should play a significant role in the forming a family. Twice Blessed sheds light on the equally significant roles that trust, patience, endurance and love play. A truly worthwhile read!”—Ronald E. Richter, CEO & ED, JCCA | Repair the world child by child

“ … this story clearly demonstrates how a child with a difficult beginning can become a well-functioning, compassionate adult when she, or he, receives the nurture, guidance, support and yes, love that she requires. If only we truly invested in systems that would identify such children and appropriately intervene in their lives, instead of simply focusing on punishing those adults we had failed to protect.” Richard G. Dudley, Jr., M.D., Clinical & Forensic Psychiatrist

“This is a wonderful story about love, loss and commitment. Stan and Claire’s unwavering support of Rosa and their unconditional love for Stefanie are testament to how family can be found in unexpected places, and it can blossom regardless of race, ethnicity, religion and all the things that we mistakenly believe define our lives. Stefanie’s strength and resilience in the face of all her early losses and suffering are a tribute to the power of love.” Lilliam Barrios Paoli, Former NYC Deputy Commissioner for Health and Human Services