Dear Willow
There are so many things I want to tell you, things I’ve felt, pondered and worried over. I wanted to write this letter to you, not just for today, but for someday. So that when you’re older, you’ll know exactly how deeply you are loved, how fiercely you were hoped for, and how much you changed our world the moment you arrived.
Before You Came
Long before we knew your name, before we saw your photo, we were dreaming of you. Our days were filled with paperwork, training sessions, checklists, and more waiting & wishing than I ever thought my heart could hold. But beneath it all, there was this constant thread pulling us forward, an unwavering hope that one day, you would come home.
When We First Met You
The day we met you is carved into my memory with such clarity, I hope it never fades. You were so small, and yet your presence filled the entire room. They all said, ‘such a big personality for a little girl,’ and when we met you, I understood what they meant. I remember the way you looked at us with those wide, wondering eyes and how my heart felt like it might burst from the ache and the awe.
We were strangers, but we already loved you with everything we had.
Our Early Days Together
Those early days were a magical whirlwind. We followed your lead. We listened to your rhythm. We copied your routine to help you feel safe. There were tears- yours and ours, but there was also laughter extreme gratitude and awe at your resilience. And every cuddle, every small milestone, every new smile reminded us: this was where you belonged.
You slowly began to settle. You started reaching for us, physically and emotionally. Trust grew in little ways, in your gaze, your giggle, your grasp on our fingers.
What I Want You To Know
Willow, you are the bravest person I’ve ever met. You’ve been through more in your little life than many do in a lifetime. And yet, you shine. Theres a warmth you bring warmth into every room. You are kind, sweet, curious, clever, and endlessly loved—not because of anything you do, but simply because you are you.
Always know you are wanted and cherished. You are not lucky—we are.
You didn’t come from us, but we were always meant to be us.
Our Hopes For You
My greatest hope is that you always know your worth. That you feel safe enough to be fully, unapologetically yourself. That you always have the courage to ask questions, explore your story, and know that you will be met with honesty and love.
I hope you grow up knowing your voice matters. That your feelings are important. That your past is part of you, but it doesn’t define you. And that no matter where life takes you, you will always have a home in us.
With All My Love
We may not have started life together, but we’ll spend the rest of our lives making up for lost time. You are our daughter, our joy, and our light. Thank you for letting us love you. Thank you for being exactly who you are.
With all my love, forever and always,
Mummy x
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UK Adoption Charities and Support Resources
If you’re currently navigating adoption — here are some trusted organisations that offer advice, community, and emotional support:
- Adoption UK – National charity offering support for adopters and prospective adopters, including forums, local groups, and educational resources.
- First4Adoption (now part of Coram Ambitious for Adoption) – A comprehensive guide for anyone considering adoption in England.
- We Are Family – A peer support community for adoptive parents, run by adopters for adopters.
- PAC-UK – Provides specialist support for all parties affected by adoption and permanency, including training and therapy services.
- CoramBAAF – Offers expert guidance, publications, and policy insight for those involved in adoption and fostering.
- Family Rights Group – Support for families whose children are in the care system, including advice for kinship carers and special guardians.