Ever since we got married, my spouse and I have dreamed of expanding our family. We hoped to have children naturally and even pursued fertility treatments, but the path was not as fruitful as we had hoped. Fertility treatments were physically and emotionally challenging, and each unsuccessful result brought feelings of disappointment and, at times, self-blame. Yet, we supported each other as a couple and held onto our shared desire to build a family.

Family Beyond Blood Ties
Through the process of fertility treatments, we came to realize that family is not solely defined by biological ties. Instead of giving up on the hope of building a family, we began to explore new ways to turn our dream into reality. This led us to consider foster care and special adoption as potential paths.

Reaching this decision was not easy. We grappled with countless doubts and concerns: “Can we truly fulfill the responsibilities of being foster parents?” “Can we provide the kind of home that a child deserves?” Despite these questions, our growing desire to offer love and stability to children in need gave us the courage to move forward.

Taking the First Step Toward Foster Care
We chose to pursue foster care because we realized that “family can take many forms.” During our research, we discovered that many children in Japan still lack the warmth and security of a family. Knowing this inspired us to believe, “We can be part of the solution.”

Of course, becoming foster parents is no simple task. It requires completing training, undergoing assessments, and meeting specific requirements. However, we believe that these steps will help us grow as individuals and as a couple. Additionally, we are hopeful about the possibility of forming a lasting family bond through special adoption.

The Power of Support
The journey so far has not been without challenges. It was difficult to share the failures of fertility treatments with others, and in the beginning, we felt a sense of isolation as we considered foster care and special adoption. However, connecting with others who have had similar experiences or who are already foster parents has helped us feel less alone.

These connections have been an immense source of encouragement. Knowing there are people who resonate with our story and support our journey gives us the energy to face the challenges ahead.

Turning Hope Into Reality—Looking Ahead to 2025
For us, 2025 will be the year we begin “turning our hopes into reality.” Our goal for this year is to complete the foster care registration process and prepare for the possibility of special adoption. Through this endeavor, we aim to grow as a couple and create an environment where our future family can thrive.

Some of you reading this may also be contemplating what family means to you or facing similar struggles. We hope that sharing our journey provides encouragement or inspiration. Additionally, by shedding light on foster care and adoption, we hope to contribute to a broader understanding of these options.

In Closing
We’re not just hoping to welcome a child into our lives—we’re striving to create a family built on mutual growth, love, and connection. As we take one step at a time, we hope that our story reaches many people and garners their support.

Please watch over us as we continue our journey toward “realizing our hopes.” For those of you facing similar challenges, we hope to connect with you and work together to shape a brighter future. May our efforts serve as a spark of hope for all who read this.

Thank you for your support and encouragement.