Where It All Began

Adoption was always on my heart. I knew I wanted to grow my family that way one day. But foster care? I didn’t know much about it.

That changed the day a worker came into our home. She explained that adoption is incredibly difficult in Australia—but that there are thousands of children in foster care who need a safe and loving home. Something clicked in me. I pictured a young person with nowhere to go, and I just knew—I wanted to be that home.

Inside, I was buzzing with excitement. But while I was dreaming of cribs and cuddles and chaos, my husband was thinking something entirely different.

“I don’t think I can manage the family contact,” he said. “It just feels like a lot.”

My heart sank. I understood where he was coming from, but the disappointment hit me hard. I couldn’t push him into something he wasn’t ready for. That wouldn’t be fair.

“Okay,” I said quietly. “I understand. That would be hard, I guess.”

And just like that, foster care wasn’t our path—at least, not yet.

With a deep longing to become a mum, I turned my focus to other options. We tried adoption first, but every door slammed shut. Again and again. So, we turned to IVF. It felt like the answer—no family contact to manage, and maybe, finally, a baby in our arms. I threw myself into it, hopeful and committed.

But life—or God, or the universe, depending on what you believe—had other plans.

One phone call changed everything. (You can read more about that in my book.)

And just like that, we were in.

Fully immersed in the world of foster care.

Our hearts are challenged and stretched every day. Some days we’re full of joy. Some days we’re wrecked. And yes, the system is broken—just like everyone says. But somehow, it’s still so worth it. It’s wild. It’s raw. It’s beautiful. I wouldn’t trade it for anything. (Well… maybe on the hard days. But even then, I’m all in.)

There are thousands of children out there waiting for a safe place to land. There are carers crying out for support and change. There are kids desperate for home, healing, and reform. And I can’t stay quiet about that. I won’t.

I’m rallying people to join this mission—people who care deeply, who believe in change, and who want to be part of something bigger than themselves.

If that’s you, I’d love to hear from you.

Right now, my life is full to the brim—foster care, writing a book, launching a nonprofit, starting a business, recording a podcast, renovating a house, raising kids, and working my day job. It’s chaotic—but it’s full of purpose. And no matter how full things get, I’ll always have time for people and passion.

So if you’re a dreamer, a reformer, or someone who just wants to make a difference—reach out. I’d love to hear your story.

Much love,
Dani :)