Joshua #

Boy, Age: 3

Primary Diagnosis: Blind / VI, Cerebral palsy, Global developmental delays, Hydrocephalus

Listed: Sep 2025

2025 MACC, Available to Large Families, Available to Older Parents, Available to Single Fathers, Available to Single Mothers

Congenital anomaly of the central nervous system – hydrocephalus; condition after implantation of a ventriculo-peritoneal shunt. Epilepsy. Bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Non-allergic asthma. Cortical blindness. Spastic quadriparesis. Severe developmental delay. Atopic dermatitis.

Malachi #

Boy, Age: 2

Region: Eastern Europe

Primary Diagnosis: Hydrocephalus

Posthemorrhagic extreme internal hydrocephalus; implantation of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS). Bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Retinopathy of prematurity

Listed: Feb 2025

2025 MACC, 25 for 2025, Available to Large Families, Available to Older Parents, Available to Single Fathers, Available to Single Mothers

He lives in a home for medical and social childcare. He was born to a minor mother who had epilepsy and took anti-epileptic medications during pregnancy. There was a complicated pregnancy and birth, resulting in extreme posthemorrhagic hydrocephalus. A shunt was implanted but failed. A new one was inserted. Malachi is on permanent antiepileptic monotherapy, without convulsive manifestations.

Due to the extreme hydrocephalus, Malachi is in impaired general condition, with significant lag in psychomotor development – no head control, does not turn around, does not sit or stand. He needs specialized care, monitoring by medical specialists, and daily medical rehabilitation. He is usually in a positive emotional state. He coos frequently and continuously. He reacts animatedly to the speech of an adult. He initiates a desire for physical contact by smiling. The boy is completely dependent on the care of an adult. His sleep is peaceful. He takes food with a pacifier. The agency has videos of him.

Theodore #

Boy, Age: 8

Region: Eastern Europe

Primary Diagnosis: Cerebral palsy, Deaf / HoH, Hydrocephalus

Listed: Jan 2025

Available to Large Families, Available to Older Parents, Available to Single Fathers, Available to Single Mothers

Internal obstructive hydrocephalus – VPA. Spastic cerebral palsy. Umbilical hernia. Convergent strabismus. Hemangioma pedis dextra. ROP in regress. Bilateral sensorineural hearing loss – hearing aid. Mixed specific disorders of psychological development. Severe mental delays.

Margo and Gabi #

Girl, Age: 3

Region: Eastern Europe

Primary Diagnosis: Congenital Heart Defect, Epilepsy/ seizure disorder, Genetic Condition (non-DS), Hydrocephalus

Listed: Jan 2025

Available to Large Families, Available to Older Parents, Available to Single Mothers, Siblings

Margo
Polymalformative syndrome: Congenital internal hydrocephalus and brain malformation with atrophy of the cerebral lobes and cerebellum; Implantation of the VPS. Hydronephrosis IIIst. on the right with renal calculus; pyeloplasty. Persistent foramen ovale and arterial duct. Symptomatic epilepsy Grand mal seizures. Spastic quadriparesis. Microcephaly. Severe neuropsychiatric development delay

Gabi
Short bowel syndrome. Abnormalities of absorption after surgery. Small bowel insufficiency. Condition after necrotizing enterocolitis. Condition after surgical intervention – termino-lateral ileo-colic anastomosis. Allergy to cow’s milk protein. Cavernous hemangioma on the right side of the face. Condition after: Prematurity IV degree. Neonatal respiratory distress syndrome. Retinopathy of prematurity. Bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Retention in the neuropsychological development. Hypotrophy II degree

Owyn #

Boy, Age: 4

Region: Eastern Europe

Primary Diagnosis: Hydrocephalus

Listed: Jan 2025

2025 MACC, 25 for 2025, Available to Large Families, Available to Older Parents, Available to Single Fathers, Available to Single Mothers

Precious Owyn is looking for a special family.

He is diagnosed with hydrocephalus and has some other medical issues that require in-depth care. The adoption agency has a lot more photos and more information about his needs and video footage. A specific adoption agency also has grant funding in the amount of $2500 available.

Amelia #

Girl, Age: 9

Region: Eastern Europe

Primary Diagnosis: Hydrocephalus

Hydrocephalus with Verticulo-territorial shunt implantation; delayed in her physical and neuropsychological development

Listed: Jan 2025

2025 MACC, Available to Large Families, Available to Older Parents, Available to Single Mothers

Amelia is reported to be “just as sweet as she can be.” The agency has a new report from November 2024 as well as photos & videos that can be shared with inquiring families.

A specific agency also has grant funding available in the amount of $2500.

Melanie #

Girl, Age: 5

Region: Eastern Europe

Primary Diagnosis: Hydrocephalus, Spina bifida

spina bifida, hydrocephalus, psychomotor developmental delay, urinary incontinence

Listed: Jan 2025

2025 MACC, 25 for 2025, Available to Large Families, Available to Older Parents, Available to Single Mothers

Meet smiling Melly. She had surgical treatment for correction of a meningocele. A ventriculoperitoneal shunt was also implanted to treat hydrocephalus. Unfortunately after surgery Melly’s lower limbs are paralyzed.

Melly moves independently in a wheelchair. She can pull herself up with her hands She enjoys contact with children and adults. She plays with toys, handles them, and can throw them. Melly pronounces various sounds and syllables although she points to make her needs known. She can maintain interest in an activity for 15-20 minutes.

Kyle #

Boy, Age: 9

Region: Eastern Europe

Primary Diagnosis: Hydrocephalus

Microcephaly. External hydrocephalus. Delay in neuropsychological development. Moderate mental delays. Suspicion for Seckel’s syndrome

Listed: Dec 2024

Available to Large Families, Available to Older Parents, Available to Single Fathers, Available to Single Mothers

Hans

Boy, Age: 6

Country Code: LA-2

Region: Latin America

Primary Diagnosis: Epilepsy/ seizure disorder, Hydrocephalus

Hydrocephalus; Epilepsy; Cerebral palsy; Macrocephaly, hip dislocation; gastrostomy

Listed: Nov 2024

25 for 2025, Available to Large Families, Available to Single Fathers, Available to Single Mothers

Information in this report is from November 2024

Hans was born to a young teenage girl who, tragically, had already given birth to a child at a very young age. Due to her chronological age and emotional immaturity the mother was not able to fully understand her responsibility, and despite the support of her family, the bond between Hans and his mother was not positive. After Protection Services became involved, it was evident that the biological mother and her family were not able to take care of the child due to his special needs, economic struggles and already caring for Hans’s older sibling. He, therefore, came into care at the age of 3 years old. There is no information about the biological father.

Hans is not enrolled in school due to his medical diagnoses. Hans loves to receive affection, and he responds through smiles. He is totally dependent on others to fulfill his daily routines. He communicates through guttural sounds, screams or by crying. Hans cries whenever his diaper is dirty. Hans´s gross and fine motor skills are not developed. The child cannot hold his head up, and he cannot crawl or walk. He has some body movements, and the foster mother has received training on how to stimulate his motor development. He does not like to be held and prefers when people change his body position without holding him for too long. Due to Hans’s medical diagnosis, he has a severe cognitive delay and is not able to interact with other children. Hans receives occupational, physical and speech therapy. Hans takes daily medication.

Hans likes to listen to soft music. He needs a family who can always take care of him due to the severity of his condition.

Eloise

Girl, Age: 2

Region: Latin America

Primary Diagnosis: Hydrocephalus, Limb differences, Spina bifida

Congenital right clubfoot, Spina Bifida, Hydrocephalus- ventriculoperitoneal shunt, Congenital bilateral hip dislocation – hip reduction plus harness

Listed: Nov 2024

2025 MACC, 25 for 2025, Available to Large Families, Available to Single Mothers

Eloise is a joyful, affectionate, and calm child, who enjoys the simple pleasures of life such as music, dancing, and storytelling. Her sunny disposition radiates through her interactions, whether she’s playing freely in the park, lying peacefully on the grass, or engaging with her peers. Despite any initial nervousness around new people, her warm and gentle demeanor quickly puts others at ease, leading to the formation of close emotional bonds, particularly with her foster mother.

Eloise’s ability to communicate her needs and emotions through gestures and sounds demonstrates her keen self-awareness, and her empathetic nature is evident when she comforts her loved ones. Though faced with medical challenges, Eloise has proven to be remarkably resilient.

VIDEOS:
https://vimeo.com/maaspecialkids/maa-eloise01
https://vimeo.com/maaspecialkids/maa-eloise02
https://vimeo.com/maaspecialkids/maa-eloise03
https://vimeo.com/maaspecialkids/maa-eloise04
https://vimeo.com/maaspecialkids/maa-eloise05
https://vimeo.com/maaspecialkids/maa-eloise06

Password: Adoptmaa

Agency fee reductions may be available based on the adoptive family’s circumstances.

Theodore

Boy, Age: 3

Country Code: EE-7

Region: Eastern Europe

Primary Diagnosis: Cerebral palsy, Global developmental delays, Hydrocephalus, Limb differences

Diagnosis include a lighter version of cerebral palsy; hydrocephalus; Mixed developmental disorder; congenital deformity of the foot

Listed: Oct 2024

Theodore was born prematurely at 25 weeks; he will need ongoing support from doctors as he continues his development.

He is described as being very cheerful, curious, positive, interested in everything, expresses positive emotions and smiles a lot and responds when spoken to. He listens attentively to adults and can distinguish between a stern and pleasant tone of an adult. Makes single sounds, says words and waves his hand to those leaving. When asked, shows where his nose, eyes and mouth are, claps his hands. He is eager to play with toys for his age and likes toys that make different sounds. The boy is very affectionate and very active. Since March of this year, he has learned to walk independently using a walker. He needs to wear orthopedic footwear at all times. He walks short distances, has an irregular gait, and staggers. He eats a wide variety of food and has no allergies. The child eats on his own, is learning to sit on a potty and is a good sleeper. He can’t hear in one ear as it is undeveloped so he wears a hearing aid and attends checkup appointments for his hearing. He responds when called by name. He enjoys kindergarten and being around other children. He completed a rehabilitation program in 2023 that was very effective and has shown positive changes in his development.

Mell

Boy, Age: 4

Country Code: LA-2

Region: Latin America

Primary Diagnosis: Hydrocephalus, Spina bifida

bilateral hip dysplasia with congenital hip dislocation, congenital hydrocephalus, lumbosacral meningocele corrected, congenital malformation of the corpus callosum, hypermetropy (far-sightedness), and malnutrition.

Listed: Oct 2024

25 for 2025, Available to Large Families, Available to Single Fathers, Available to Single Mothers

Info from March 2024:

When Mell was born, his biological parents tried to take care of him even with his special needs, but they lived in a small town far away from cities and hospitals. At his one month check-up, he was diagnosed with congenital malformation of the spinal cord, hydrocephalus, low weight, fetal growth delay, and respiratory syndrome. At one of his following check-ups, the doctor sent Mell to the hospital due to a high fever and inflammation of the brain. Sadly, though they had tried, his parents recognized that they did not have the means of caring for him in the ways he needed, both due to finances and distance from necessary medical care, and they asked Protective Services to care for him. No other family members were able to provide the care he needed as well. Mell was placed in a foster home and is doing well.

Mell has been receiving various types of therapies which have been valuable in his development. When meeting adults for the first time, he becomes shy, but he recognizes familiar people and loves to interact with them. Mell identifies the emotions on people´s faces and interacts accordingly. He is a very expressive child who shows affection in various ways, and sometimes gets jealous when his foster mother gives affection to the other children. According to the professionals who care for him, Mell has the language development of a 12-month toddler. He communicates through crying and screaming and can say some short words such as “mama” and “papa.” He also imitates animal sounds, such as those of a dog or cat. He responds to simple instructions such “Take this” and “Give me that.” Mell identifies different body parts, plays with Play-Dough, and performs other activities that strengthen his fine motor skills. His movements are spontaneous despite the limitations he has in his lower limbs. Due to his chronological age, Mell requires support, supervision, and guidance to fulfill his daily routines. Mell takes two naps during the day and sleeps throughout the night. He wears diapers all day.

Mell likes to interact with peers or adults and loves to spend time outside. He gets excited when he hears a motorcycle engine as he immediately thinks he is going to go out and gets anxious. He gets upset when his diaper is dirty and when he is not allowed to go out. Mell gets happy with simple things, and he likes to laugh a lot. Mell loves to drink sweet juices. Due to his medical condition, he does not wear shoes but wears very soft socks. He enjoys it when adults help him to kick the ball to play soccer. Mell also likes to play with cars and airplanes.

Jeremiah

Boy, Age: 4

Country Code: Asia.2

Region: Asia

Primary Diagnosis: Hydrocephalus

hydrocephalus has a shunt extending from his brain to his abdominal cavity; Jeremiah’s right brain is underdeveloped, and his left hand is relatively weak, but everything else is normal.

Listed: Oct 2024

Jeremiah is a young child who finds great joy in the simple pleasures of childhood. He delights in playing with his toy cars and balls, rolling them across the floor and watching them zip and zoom. Jeremiah also loves to watch the adventures of the Paw Patrol pups, their heroic rescues and amusing antics, capturing his attention whenever the show is on. On weekends, Jeremiah’s foster parents take him and the other children to the local park, where he eagerly explores the playground equipment. The tall, twisting slide is a particular favorite, Jeremiah giggling with glee as he slides down its smooth surface. For unfamiliar structures at the park, Jeremiah first observes cautiously before mustering the courage to join in the fun. His natural curiosity and sociability allow him to seamlessly integrate with any groups of children he encounters. At home, Jeremiah cherishes the playtime he shares with his foster brother. However, Jeremiah maintains a wary distance from household pets, becoming physically tense and nervous if a cat or dog ventures too close. He prefers to watch them from behind the safety of his foster parents. Still learning self-care, Jeremiah diligently works on tasks like brushing his teeth, washing his face, and dressing himself, though he relies on the gentle guidance of his foster mother. Although he is not afraid of strangers, Jeremiah warms up to new people after observing them for a while. His stable, sunny disposition and affectionate nature shines through as he cuddles happily in the arms of his foster mother. Though easily distracted, Jeremiah remains engaged with the world around him, his keen curiosity evident in everything he does.

Kevin #

Boy, Age: 3

Region: Eastern Europe

Primary Diagnosis: Hydrocephalus, Spina bifida

Congenital anomaly of the nervous system: internal hydrocephaly; condition after ventriculo-peritoneal anastomosis implantation. Holoprosencephaly. Lumbosacral spina bifida aperta; condition after plastic surgery. Lower flaccid paraplegia. Pelvic-reservoir incontinence. Delayed neuro-psychic development

Listed: Sep 2024

2025 MACC, Available to Large Families, Available to Older Parents, Available to Single Fathers, Available to Single Mothers

Kevin can sit on his own. He plays with toys. He interacts positively with caregivers. He makes some sounds, but is not yet saying any words.

Brandon #

Boy, Age: 5

Region: Eastern Europe

Primary Diagnosis: Congenital Heart Defect, Hydrocephalus

Microcephaly. Hydrocephalus. Agenesis of the left hemisphere, persistent foramen ovale, Interatrial defect and Schizencephaly.

Listed: Sep 2024

2025 MACC, Available to Large Families, Available to Older Parents, Available to Single Fathers, Available to Single Mothers

Please meet Brandon; he has multiple special needs. Sadly Brandon relies totally on the care of others. He sleeps in a room with four other children. The caretaker says he seems to like music and likes the bath. He can make some sounds for speech. He has difficulty feeding and swallowing.

The agency staff member that met Brandon said the following: “According to the caretaker, there is a slight regression, especially in terms of feeding. Unfortunately, I have not been given an opportunity to speak to any of the specialists engaged with the boy and possibly what exactly they are working on. Brandon could have some potential, but it’s very hard to tell. In any case, he needs a lot of love, a lot of attention and a lot of activities.” Could you be the family for Brandon?

Samson #

Boy, Age: 3

Region: Eastern Europe

Primary Diagnosis: Global developmental delays, Hydrocephalus, Spina bifida

hydrocephalus, spina bifida in the lumbosacral area –condition following implantation of a VP shunt and closing of the spinal defect; lower flaccid paraplegia; pelvic reservoir incontinence; delayed psychomotor development; delayed psychological development.

Listed: Aug 2024

2025 MACC, 25 for 2025, Available to Large Families, Available to Older Parents, Available to Single Fathers, Available to Single Mothers

Update Nov 2024: Samson was recently moved from a large orphanage to a small group home for children with disabilities. He loves attention and responds with joy with staff interacts with him. He is described as a calm and radiant child.

Samson sits independently and can stay in this position for extended period of time. He reaches for distant toys by directing his hands and turning his torso towards the desired direction and after that he pulls the toy. He prefers toys with buttons, which make sounds, light or melody, as well as toys with movable elements, which he can spin. He initiates interactions with adults, whom he likes and with children. Samson enjoys being praised and reacts with discontent when something is being denied or forbidden to him. He is fed via baby bottle and spoon.

Dane

Boy, Age: 15

Country Code: E-11

Region: Europe

Primary Diagnosis: Cerebral palsy, Epilepsy/ seizure disorder, Hydrocephalus

Prematurity, post-hemorrhagic hydrocephalus, carrier of a short circuit ventricle-peritoneal shunt, cerebral palsy, spastic tetraparesis, psychomotor retardation, epilepsy, myopia and astigmatism. Frequent respiratory infections.

**** I am eligible for a $5000 Older Child Grant ****
Grant funds depend on available funding; the link above, shows the current available amount!
To inquire about this child, email childinquiry@reecesrainbow.org ***

Available to Single Fathers, Available to Single Mothers

Dawn and Donna #

Sibling Group

Ages: 5, 5

Region: Eastern Europe

Primary Diagnosis: Blind / VI, Cerebral palsy, Global developmental delays, Hydrocephalus

Listed: Jul 2024

2025 MACC, Available to Large Families, Available to Older Parents, Available to Single Mothers

Dawn & Donna are twin girls who were born in Ukraine at 29 weeks gestation. They lived in an orphanage in Ukraine until they were 1.5 years old, at which time they were moved to an orphanage in Bulgaria. They were then moved to a different placement in Bulgaria at age 3, where they still reside.

Donna’s medical diagnosis includes: Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) stage 5, post vitrectomy condition bilaterally; secondary glaucoma. Left eye ROP stage4 Nystagmus. Delayed neuro-psychic development. Condition after low birth weight. Self-aggression. Spastic quadriparesis. Iron deficiency anaemia

Dawn was born first. Her medical diagnosis includes: cerebral palsy – spastic quadriparesis. Spastic quadriparesis. Suspected hydrocephalus with normal pressure and hypoplasia of corpus callosum. Grade 1 hypotrophy. Convergent strabismus; hypermetropia. Condition following very low birth weight.

Update July 2024: After their placement into the foster home on May 14, 2024, the girls have adjusted well and made noticeable developmental progress. They show an attachment to the foster mom and follow her instructions. One of the girls can now walk independently and is well oriented in the foster home. The other girl sits with little support. The girls now eat mashed food from a fork or spoon and chew well. They have learned to speak their first meaningful words and are also observed to repeat syllables. While there’s some jealousy between the sisters when it comes to receiving attention, they are emotionally close and hug/hold hands. Videos from July 2024 show one girl as tenacious in exploring her environment and the other as joyful when playing on the floor. The girls attend therapy twice a week and their foster mom is proactive in seeking additional services for them. They like music and singing and enjoy massage from the foster mom. They are thrilled to be playing in the inflatable pool in the backyard. Their foster mom describes them as positive children who will continue to make progress with the right interventions and lots of love.

From a family who met them in 2023

I met these twins when I visited my daughter for trip one in 10/2023. One twin was active and was able to stand holding on and cruise around her crib. She was able to climb right out of her floor crib and back in herself. It was an activity for her and she did it with great ease. She wasn’t trying to escape at any point and would just flip In and out over and over again. She seemed like what you would expect for a toddler. She stopped what she was doing when someone called her name and turned in the direction of their voice. The other sweet twin was always laying down when I saw her. Sometimes in a crib, sometimes in a seat. My daughter asked for “baby” all the time and they would put this twin in her crib with her to lay together. They said she was more “severe”. She definitely seemed more infantile. They were in a really great place where they got plenty of food and were carried around a lot by the staff there. There were 8 kids on that floor in four rooms. The twins shared a room. I believe they are now in a foster situation. They def were pretty easygoing. They had a lot of musical toys which they seemed to like. The active twin kept herself busy a lot but the quiet twin seemed to love cuddling and other kids being around her. I think some of the delays they have may be related to vision impairments. I would imagine they would do well with siblings.

Phineas

Boy, Age: 4

Country Code: E-11

Region: Europe

Primary Diagnosis: Craniofacial disorder, Deaf / HoH, Epilepsy/ seizure disorder, Genetic Condition (non-DS), Hydrocephalus

Polymalformative syndrome, with craniofacial dysmorphia; suspicion of Goldenhar Syndrome; Hydrocephaly; upper airway malformation with tracheostomy since 10/4/2021. Currently with cannula. Epilepsy. Gastrostomy. Sensory-neuro deafness – uses hearing aids.

Listed: Mar 2024

Available to Single Fathers, Available to Single Mothers

Phineas was previously listed as Phil — he is a sweet boy who was born with a polymalformative syndrome. His condition comes with needs that set him apart, and he was placed in care early on.

Phineas uses a wheelchair in his daily life. He also spends time in a standing frame. He enjoys smiling at people and laughing. Phineas enjoys sensory experiences with tactile or auditory input. He enjoys listening to a maraca or touching a soft stuffed animal.

Vance #

Boy, Age: 4

Region: Eastern Europe

Primary Diagnosis: Cerebral palsy, Epilepsy/ seizure disorder, Global developmental delays, Hydrocephalus

Communicating internal hydrocephalus, implantation of ventriculoperitoneal shunt. Spastic cerebral palsy. Localized epilepsy. Atrophy of the optic nerve. Plagiocephaly. Delayed neuropsychological development.

Listed: Feb 2024

Available to Large Families, Available to Single Fathers, Available to Single Mothers

Meet Vance! This three-year-old boy needs a family who has easy access to the many specialists he will need to thrive, as, in addition to regular medical assessments, he will benefit from ongoing physical and occupational therapies. Vance is able to roll from back to front. He reacts to sounds, and is able to be calmed by familiar adults when he is upset. He can be coaxed to give a smile, and while he does not purposefully play with toys, he does have a favorite teddy bear. He is able to eat from a spoon, though this picky eater cannot feed himself.

Vance was also previously listed as Vinnie.

Izaiah #

Boy, Age: 4

Region: Eastern Europe

Primary Diagnosis: Blind / VI, Global developmental delays, Hydrocephalus

CCFDN syndrome, which includes: congenital bilateral cataracts, facial dimorphism, psychomotor developmental delay, decreased muscle tone and peripheral neuropathy, internal hydrocephalus which does not require neurosurgical treatment at this stage.

Listed: Jan 2024

Available to Large Families, Available to Older Parents, Available to Single Fathers, Available to Single Mothers

Izaiah is now living in a foster family and is receiving physical therapy at a rehabilitation center three days a week. The foster family reports that they are seeing major improvements in his motor skills now that he is receiving support and intervention services. His foster mother reports that he can pull himself up to a standing position using support (example: laying down in the crib and pulls to stand by holding on to the side of the crib). His physical therapist stated that he is making “visible progress” and should soon be independently walking. Izaiah has had surgeries for cataracts in both eyes (2 on the right and one on the left). It is believed he has limited vision from his left eye. He has a diagnosis of internal hydrocephalus, however, his foster mother reports that he was recently seen again by neurology and the diagnosis was dropped. Izaiah understands what is said to him. He smiles and makes eye contact. He says a few single words and also uses gestures and facial expressions to communicate. When asked how old he is he shows two fingers. He is beginning to indicate when he needs to use the restroom, but is still wearing diaper. He holds items in his hands and explores them. He plays with toys and participates in games. He shows an interest in other children.

Silas #

Boy, Age: 4

Region: Eastern Europe

Primary Diagnosis: Hydrocephalus

Pfeiffer’s syndrome (suspected); internal hydrocephalus

Listed: Dec 2023

Available to Large Families, Available to Older Parents, Available to Single Fathers, Available to Single Mothers

Silas has had genetic testing to rule out various genetic conditions. It is believed he has Pfeiffer’s syndrome. More extensive genetic testing that is not currently available in his location is needed to confirm the genetic diagnosis.

He walks independently, runs, climbs and descends stairs with support. He is interested in toys and will reach for them and play with them. His attention span with completing tasks continues to increase. He imitates syllables and words. He follows verbal directions and participates in games with peers. He is familiar with his environment and daily routine and interested in everything happening around him.

Vernon #

Boy, Age: 5

Region: Eastern Europe

Primary Diagnosis: Global developmental delays, Hydrocephalus, Spina bifida

Spina bifida; hydrocephalus- shunt; delays in all aspects of development

Listed: Dec 2023

2025 MACC, Available to Large Families, Available to Older Parents, Available to Single Fathers, Available to Single Mothers

Vernon crawls using his upper body. He plays with toys and interacts with familiar adults. He responds to his name by turning toward the person calling him.

Update 10/24

He has several special needs including congenital internal hydrocephalus and spina bifida aperta (thoraco-lumbar). Vernon is undergoing daily rehabilitation. His condition is monitored by a pediatric neurologist, a neurosurgeon and a pediatrician.

Vernon can turn independently from his back to his stomach and vice versa. He has good head control. He can purposefully grab a toy and hold it. He enjoys personal attention from an adult, laughs loudly at teasing and reacts with displeasure when left unattended. He is mostly calm. No aggressive behavior was recorded. When he is called by name, he turns toward the direction of the sound. He reacts to a noise stimulus. He speaks syllables and long sound combinations.

Archibald #

Boy, Age: 7

Region: Eastern Europe

Primary Diagnosis: Hydrocephalus

Listed: Aug 2023

Available to Large Families, Available to Older Parents, Available to Single Fathers, Available to Single Mothers

Diagnoses include severe prematurity, including damage to the central nervous system –
hydrocephalus; a ventriculoperitoneal shunt was implanted. There is a lag in physical and
neuropsychological development.

Archibald cannot walk independently. He moves by pushing when placed in a walker. Stands up on his own and stands on his feet when in his crib. He can get out of bed by himself. He can go around the whole game room. He can sit for about 15-20 minutes. In terms of fine motor skills, he can pick up a toy himself if it is nearby; he plays for a long time and prefers to manipulate with his left hand. If the toy is at a distance, he tries to reach it. He likes musical toys. He recognizes adults. He has a good emotional tone, he enjoys contact with adults he knows; he loves when they praise him. He gets angry if his toy is taken away and tries to keep it in his possession. Archibald cannot speak but he makes long sounds. In interpersonal relationships he shows preferences for certain adults and initiates contact with them. He plays with toys. The child doesn’t have independent household hygiene habits. He is calm when changing and bathing, as well as in his sleep. Archibald does not take an afternoon nap, he eats everything. He is very stubborn and when he decides that he wants to pick up an object, no matter how heavy and large, he does his best. He still uses a diaper, potty several times a day. His sleep at night is
peaceful. He has daily kinesitherapy and sessions with a teacher. He is followed by a
neurosurgeon.

Jesslyn

Girl, Age: 3

Country Code: Asia.2

Region: Asia

Primary Diagnosis: Epilepsy/ seizure disorder, Global developmental delays, Hydrocephalus

Listed: May 2023

Jesslyn is a snuggly baby that likes to be cuddled and hugged by her caregivers. When tired or upset she is able to relax when she hears music or soothing sounds. Although Jesslyn is not able to say words yet, she is able to vocalize through babbling.

Jesslyn needs parents who are comfortable with the many unknowns that are presented by her significant special needs. Jesslyn has epilepsy, hydrocephalus, global developmental delays, and vision concerns.

Ashton

Boy, Age: 7

Country Code: LA-2

Region: Latin America

Primary Diagnosis: Hydrocephalus

Hydrocephalus and Developmental delays

Listed: Nov 2022

2025 MACC, Available to Large Families, Available to Single Fathers, Available to Single Mothers

Ashton is an adorable little boy who is described as a social child who loves to be around others who give him affection. He shares with the people around him. He loves to hear music and pleasant sounds. He likes painting and watching animated shows. Contact the agency to learn more about Ashton and his special needs!

NEW VIDEOS:
https://vimeo.com/maaspecialkids/maa-ashton3
https://vimeo.com/maaspecialkids/maa-ashton4
https://vimeo.com/maaspecialkids/maa-ashton05
Password: Adoptmaa

OLDER VIDEOS:
https://vimeo.com/maaspecialkids/maa-ashton1
https://vimeo.com/maaspecialkids/maa-ashton2
Password: Adoptmaa

Brock

Boy, Age: 11

Country Code: LA-2

Region: Latin America

Primary Diagnosis: Cerebral palsy, Epilepsy/ seizure disorder, Hydrocephalus

Listed: Oct 2022

Available to Large Families, Available to Single Fathers, Available to Single Mothers

Brock is a very social boy, who likes to kick a ball. Brock has continued to develop and grow. Agency staff met Brock in July of 2022! We hope his forever family will see him soon! The agency has additional information available for inquiring families.

VIDEO:
https://vimeo.com/maaspecialkids/maa-brock
Password: Adoptmaa

Georgi

Boy, Age: 11

Country Code: EE-6

Region: Eastern Europe

Primary Diagnosis: Hydrocephalus, Spina bifida

Spina bifida; hydrocephalus

Listed: Jun 2022

*** I am eligible for a $2,000 Grant! ***
This grant is offered by Reece’s Rainbow, for children in this specific country. Grant funds are dependent on available funding. For more information, email childinquiry@reecesrainbow.org ***

Available to Single Mothers

Augustus #

Boy, Age: 7

Region: Eastern Europe

Primary Diagnosis: Cerebral palsy, Hydrocephalus

Internal hydrocephalus: state after implantation of a VP-shunt; epilepsy; spastic quadriparesis; cortical blindness; delay in the neuro-psychic development

Listed: May 2022

2025 MACC, Available to Large Families, Available to Older Parents, Available to Single Fathers, Available to Single Mothers

Sizable Grants $2,500+

Augustus was born full term, and was found that he has internal hydrocephalus; at the age of 4 months a liquid drainage valve system was implanted. The child lies in bed; he has spasticity in his limbs and his active and passive movements are limited. He depends completely on the care provided by adults. He receives kinesiotherapy. The child is subject to observation by a neurologist and by a neuro-surgeon.

The child’s lower and upper limbs are highly spastic and are with diffuse muscle hypotonia. His fine motor skills are not developed. He does not grasp a toy given to him. Atanas holds his hands bent in fists. He is seriously delayed in his psychomotor development. The boy reacts to tactile stimulation by adults. When teased, he does not smile. He is unable to interact with the other children. Atanas depends completely on the care provided by adults. He is fed by a bottle. From time to time he cries when given a shower. He sleeps well.

Ethan Adrian #

Boy, Age: 10

Region: Eastern Europe

Primary Diagnosis: Cerebral palsy, Deaf / HoH, Hydrocephalus

Bilateral neuro-sensory hearing loss; hydrocephalus (controlled without a shunt); developmental delays; reflux; premature; Cerebral palsy, spastic form – moderate degree. Bronchopulmonary dysplasia /BPD/. Delayed physical and psychomotor development.

Listed: Mar 2022

Available to Large Families, Available to Older Parents, Available to Single Fathers, Available to Single Mothers

Ethan is well developed for his age. He is a warm and curious little boy. His best toy is a ball. He laughs and shouts every time he got his ball. Ethan is a cheerful and peaceful child. He likes the other children. Observes and manipulates with toys. He knows how to charm his caregivers and receives lots of attention.

With a familiar adult, Ethan has a good emotional tone – he enjoys a hide and seek game and sometimes gives his hand for “hello”.

He cannot walk yet, but he sits, crawls and staying straight caught for fixed support, showing progress in his motor skill development. The child has flat feet with valgus deviation of both feet – it was recommended to wear orthopedic shoes. Ethan stands up on his own until he is caught on a fixed support, stands on tiptoe, does not step aside, placed in a walker, moves short distances; pronounces long sound combinations.

A family met Ethan in late 2024 & would be willing to share their experiences with another inquiring family.

Myles

Boy, Age: 8

Country Code: Asia.2

Region: Asia

Primary Diagnosis: Cerebral palsy, Global developmental delays, Hydrocephalus

premature (27 wks) – multiple medical complications, hydrocephalus, epilepsy, retinopathy (vision impairment), CP, hearing impairment, global developmental delays; birth mother smoked cigarettes & drank alcohol during pregnancy.

Listed: Sep 2021

Myles was just starting to wake up at the beginning of our Zoom call and as his caregivers slowly nudged and tickled him, he showed us the biggest smile and sweetest little giggle. Four-year-old Myles is not speaking, but we learned from his caregivers that he is a quite boy who prefers not to be disturbed. His favorite toy is his teether, he likes being tickled, and dislikes being moved around.

Myles diet consists of mashed foods, his favorite being fruits. Myles spends most of his time in his bed or in a support chair. Because he is only allotted one therapeutic device per year, he doesn’t currently have a child walker. With more opportunities to put weight on his legs, he may possibly have the potential for assisted walking in the future.

Myles was born prematurely and has been diagnosed with global developmental delays, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, hydrocephalus and hearing impairment. Myles resides in a nursing home and receives 30 minutes of occupational and physical therapy at a local hospital each week. The agency has much more information on Myles! Could your family be the one he needs?

Emma #

Girl, Age: 9

Region: Eastern Europe

Primary Diagnosis: Epilepsy/ seizure disorder, Global developmental delays, Hydrocephalus, Other Special Needs

Condition after herpes-viral encephalitis. Hepatitis caused by CMV. Hypotrophy. Hydrocephaly – of mild degree. Congenital dyserythropoietic anemia. Delayed neuro-psychological development.

Listed: Sep 2021

2025 MACC, 24 for 2024, Available to Large Families, Available to Older Parents, Available to Single Mothers

Emma was recently transferred to a group home where she can receive more specialized care to help her continue to develop and receive appropriate medical care. She is receiving monthly blood transfusions at this time for her anemia. She had surgery to correct clubbed feet in 2020. She can sit unassisted, stand next to a stable support, walk around fixed supports and walk while holding the hand of an adult. Videos from May 2021 show Emma playing with an electronic toy. She is pushing the button to get the toy to make a sound. Her fine motor skills are not well-developed at this time, due to her spasticity. Emma responds positively to adults and other children. She smiles and laughs when adults interact with her.

The agency staff member who visited her during March of 2024, says the following:

Emma is a sweet little girl who needs a loving and supportive family environment. During my brief visit, the child was constantly on the move except for the brief moments when she played with a particular toy or during her brief moments of protest. At the present time, the child’s needs are met at a basic level, with particular attention paid to her medical needs. The lack of systematic and in-depth work of specialists (such as a rehabilitator, occupational therapist, special pedagogue, speech therapist and others) is felt, which the institution currently does not have the opportunity to provide. By falling into a suitable loving family, receiving more attention and adequate care and activities, Emma could show her potential to a greater extent.

Update 8/2024

Special needs: low birth weight – 1800 gr; condition after herpes viral encephalitis; condition after hepatitis caused by CMV; congenital dyserythropoietic anemia; hydrocephalus – mild degree; infantile cerebral palsy – spastic quadriparesis; symptomatic epilepsy; delayed neuropsychological development

Therapy: Convulex 4+4+4 ml., Clonarex 2 x ¼ tablet, Repitend 4 ml – 0,4 ml. Carsil – 2 x ½ capsule daily, EXJADE – 1 tablet daily, Urinal x 5 ml daily, Vitamin D3 x 2

Emma makes steps but always and only with the help of a support. She does not control her physiological needs and wears diapers. She listens to children’s songs and fairy tales and claps with her hands. She holds a toy she has been offered but she would most often put it in her mouth without playing with it.

Emma needs monthly blood transfusions and regular consultations with a neurologist and hematologist.

Zeek #

Boy, Age: 6

Region: Eastern Europe

Primary Diagnosis: Hydrocephalus, Spina bifida

Spina Bifida; shunt placed for hydrocephalus

Listed: Sep 2021

2025 MACC, Available to Large Families, Available to Older Parents, Available to Single Fathers, Available to Single Mothers

Zeek is being taught to use a wheelchair. He can currently turn, but has not yet mastered going forward and backwards. He is also learning to pull his torso up and move around when in his bed or on the floor. He can physically handle toys. He picks them up, transfers them between hands, looks for them and retrieves them if he drops them. He can push buttons and activate sensory toys. He follows simple directions such as “give me”. He plays peek-a-boo. He enjoys interacting with the staff. He will hold out his hand for a hand shake, make kissing noises, and reaches to be held. He uses his hands to show how big he will grow up to be when asked by an adult. He is pronouncing sounds and syllables.

Updated May 2022: Zeek was recently moved from a large orphanage to a small group home, where he’s now receiving more interaction and attention. His language skills have started developing. He can now say several words. He enjoys interacting with staff and responds when he receives attention. He enjoys music.

Tyson #

Boy, Age: 8

Primary Diagnosis: Cerebral palsy, Deaf / HoH, Hydrocephalus

Listed: Apr 2021

2025 MACC, Available to Large Families, Available to Older Parents, Available to Single Fathers, Available to Single Mothers

Bilateral sensorineural hearing loss (with hearing aid); shunt due to internal hydrocephalus; spastic cerebral palsy

Tyson was born premature and had several complications after birth. He can sit on his own with good balanced reactions. He crawls following the correct motor model. He stands up and walks sideways vertically. He can walk when one of his hands is held and has more control when it’s his right hand being held. He can stand up straight without falling for 2-3 seconds. When walking with a walker, he begins to bend his knees. He purposefully grabs a toy that is handed to him and can switch it from hand to hand. He shows an interest in musical toys and enjoys them. He has started making sounds and simply syllables such as “ma-ma”. He enjoys having someone sing to him and likes to receive hugs. He eats from a spoon. His overall development is delayed.

Photos and videos from August 2020 are available through the agency.

Jesse #

Boy, Age: 12

Region: Eastern Europe

Primary Diagnosis: Cerebral palsy, Hydrocephalus

Jesse has Moderate external hydrocephalus; Arachnoid cyst – cortical atrophy; Infantile cerebral palsy – spastic quadric paresis; Hypotrophy; Delays in the neuro-psychological development; Severe mental delay.

Listed: Jun 2015

**** I am eligible for a $5000 Older Child Grant ****
Grant funds depend on available funding; the link above, shows the current available amount!
To inquire about this child, email childinquiry@reecesrainbow.org ***

Available to Large Families, Available to Older Parents, Available to Single Fathers, Available to Single Mothers

Sizable Grants $2,500+

Update November 2015: He demonstrates interest in musical and mechanical toys. He will play for a short time – studies a toy, puts it in the mouth, transfers it from one hand to the other. He likes activities involving music. He recognizes familiar areas of the orphanage and understands his daily routine related to familiar tasks such as eating. He is very happy when interacting with familiar adults.

Update 2018: Jesse attention span is short-lived and unstable in relation to objects and people. There is some sharing with a close adult. Jesse responds when called by name. His memory and speech are poorly developed. When happy, he laughs loud and when anxious, he cries. Sometimes he pronounces unspecified sounds and separate syllables. He is sensitive and emotional and tends to be nervous around strangers. When given a toy he reaches out and takes it. He is working on the pinch grip. He hasn’t mastered fully the ability to move a toy from one hand to the other. Jesse is fed with a spoon and sleeps calmly through the night. He cannot control his physiological needs. Jesse is entirely cared for by the team in his orphanage.

(Jesse was also previously listed as Andy)

Paddy #

Boy, Age: 13

Region: Eastern Europe

Primary Diagnosis: Hydrocephalus

Hydrocephalus, Thalassemia, astigmatism

Listed: Mar 2017

**** I am eligible for a $5000 Older Child Grant ****
Grant funds depend on available funding; the link above, shows the current available amount!
To inquire about this child, email childinquiry@reecesrainbow.org ***

Available to Large Families, Available to Older Parents, Available to Single Fathers, Available to Single Mothers

Paddy can turn over on his own, and sits independently. He will walk holding hands or using a walker, but does not like to walk over uneven surfaces. He likes musical toys and has recently started imitating simple actions like a ring stacker. Paddy likes to interact with familiar adults and may pout when they leave. He eats mashed food and drinks from a cup.

Update from a family that met him in 2015: Paddy is a truly beautiful boy! He does have some behaviors, shrieking and flapping for the majority of the time we observed him. He did not make eye contact with us or the staff. We asked the staff about his medical information and they stated that he did not need regular transfusions, but did have a seizure disorder. A family that is prepared to deal with autistic like behaviors would be ideal!

Mila #

Girl, Age: 9

Region: Eastern Europe

Primary Diagnosis: Cerebral palsy, Global developmental delays, Hydrocephalus

Hydrocephaly; Strabismus; G-tube feeding; delays in development

Listed: Jul 2018

*** I am eligible for a $2,000 Grant! ***
This grant is offered by Reece’s Rainbow, for children in this specific country. Grant funds are dependent on available funding. For more information, email childinquiry@reecesrainbow.org ***

2025 MACC, Available to Large Families, Available to Older Parents, Available to Single Mothers

Mila turns her head towards sound and looks at people and objects of interest. She recognizes the faces of the staff. She can roll over, but still has difficulty with head control. She enjoys musical toys that spin and will focus on those for short periods of time.

Update 8/2024

Special needs: low birth weight (2410 gr.); congenital anomaly of the central nervous system: moderate ventriculomegaly; cyst of the cave of septum pellucidum and cave Vergae; rejected prior diagnosis of hydrocephalus; brain atrophy; infantile cerebral palsy; syndrome of congenital anomalies mainly affecting the facial area; convergent strabismus; nystagmus; occipital alopecia areata; severely delayed physical and neuropsychological development; severe mental delay

Family history: born from a high-risk pregnancy by a mother with positive serology for hepatitis B and epilepsy (on three medications for epilepsy).

Molly turns independently in bed. Although she is unable to sit independently, Molly maintains a sitting position for a more continuous period at the presence of additional support. She has no stable support in the legs.Molly selectively responds with an appropriate emotional reaction to different situations and objects. She is able to express discontent from internal discomfort through crying. She smiles as a response to a smile, speech and closeness from the caregiver, she positively reacts to positive stimulation. Molly easily handles being moved from one space to another, she is calm and sometimes demonstrates interest. She has formed emotional preferences to certain significant members of the staff, mostly the rehabilitator who works with her, as well as the teacher from the group at the Center for Special Educational Support. Molly laughs at specific sounds coming from a musical toy. She shows preferences for specific children’s songs while she does not react to others.

Molly wears diapers, easily goes to sleep and easily wakes up. She eats food from a spoon

Anthony #

Boy, Age: 10

Region: Eastern Europe

Primary Diagnosis: Hydrocephalus

Neonatal, cerebral schemia; hydrocephalus; ventriculoperitoneal shunt

Listed: Mar 2017

2025 MACC, Available to Large Families, Available to Older Parents, Available to Single Fathers, Available to Single Mothers

Anthony is an adorable, sweet boy! Anthony has a lack of development physically and neurologically. In late 2015, a ventriculoperiteneal shunt was placed and he has been free of seizures since then. He cannot sit upright by himself and does not talk, but responds to sound. Anthony is tube fed due to lack of suck reflex. He does not react well to teasing or tactile stimulation by smiling but by irritation and crying.

Emery #

Girl, Age: 13

Region: Eastern Europe

Primary Diagnosis: Hydrocephalus

hydrocephalus-shunt placed; delays in development

Listed: Jan 2021

**** I am eligible for a $5000 Older Child Grant ****
Grant funds depend on available funding; the link above, shows the current available amount!
To inquire about this child, email childinquiry@reecesrainbow.org ***

Available to Large Families, Available to Older Parents, Available to Single Mothers

Emery can move using a walker and can make a few steps with support, too. Specialists are working with her to continue to strengthen her legs and are hopeful that she’ll become more independently mobile. Emery likes listening to music and is able to reproduce some of them. She can say a few words and makes short sentences as well. She receives support and intervention from specialists in the local community. She likes to receive an individual attention. She has emotional bonds with adults. She eats by herself and her sleep is calm.

Brendan

Boy, Age: 15

Country Code: LA-2

Region: Latin America

Primary Diagnosis: Hydrocephalus

born prematurely with a generalized systemic immaturity; Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia and Hydrocephalus caused by Periventricular Leukomalacia

Listed: Aug 2012

**** I am eligible for a $5000 Older Child Grant ****
Grant funds depend on available funding; the link above, shows the current available amount!
To inquire about this child, email childinquiry@reecesrainbow.org ***

Available to Large Families, Available to Single Fathers, Available to Single Mothers

Brendan is an adorable little boy. He was born prematurely with a generalized systemic immaturity. He spent his first four months in an incubator, where he was diagnosed with Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia and Hydrocephalus caused by Periventricular Leukomalacia. Due to prolonged incubation, he currently has vocal chord paralysis. He has delays in his gross and fine motor skills according to his age; however, he is able to search with his eyes for visual and aural stimuli, can open and look at his hands, and is able to hold objects in his hands. He is usually active, awake and aware of his surroundings, and with therapy will be able to continue to develop gross and fine motor skills.

This sweet boy deserves a loving family who can provide him with care and support as he continues to grow and progress.

Bennett

Boy, Age: 12

Country Code: LA-4: Due to the in-country crisis, government offices and courts that process adoptions may be closed or delayed.

Region: Latin America

Primary Diagnosis: Hydrocephalus

Listed: Aug 2019

**** I am eligible for a $5000 Older Child Grant ****
Grant funds depend on available funding; the link above, shows the current available amount!
To inquire about this child, email childinquiry@reecesrainbow.org ***

Available to Single Mothers

Sizable Grants $2,500+

Bennett is a very social child. Whenever he sees his friends, he eagerly greets them with a smile, a hug, and a “Happy Birthday!” He had hydrocephalus as an infant that was treated with a VP shunt. The shunt was later removed but he still has macrocephaly. He does have a history of seizures which are very well controlled by medication. He receives physical therapy twice a week and has made tremendous progress over the past several years.

He is fully mobile, can feed himself, and go to the bathroom independently. Bennett wears a helmet to protect his head. He has become fond of his helmet though because he can show off his headstand. You will often find him enjoying jumping on the trampoline, playing on the playground or going on a walk. He needs redirection often because he is always on the move. Although he is generally happy, he can get frustrated when people do not do what he wants to do or if he is being asked to do something he is not ready for.

Bennett’s favorite part of school is circle time because he likes to sing songs and answer ALL the questions even if his answer has nothing to do with what was asked. He understands and speaks English as well as his native language. He is known for reciting the four seasons in English quite well. At home, he loves to ask other people to dance and sing with him too. Bennett loves to make people smile!

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