Nearly two years ago, Chris and Brittany Tyler stumbled upon a news story about a newborn surrendered under Kentucky's Safe Infants Act. Little did they know, this chance encounter would lead to the adoption of a now-toddler named Samuel.
Facing infertility challenges, the Tylers became foster parents seven years ago, already adopting two sons aged 5 and 7. The news story about the surrendered infant struck a chord, and they fervently hoped to be asked to foster the baby.
Firefighters Respond to a Special Delivery
On May 12, 2022, firefighters in Louisville received an unexpected doorbell ring during a shift change. Upon opening the door, they discovered a newborn named Samuel, accompanied by a note from his biological mother. Swiftly, emergency services were notified, and Samuel was transported to a children's hospital for a health check.
Days later, the Tylers received a call to foster Samuel while out for a walk. Visiting him in the neonatal intensive care unit, they eagerly embraced the opportunity. After a few weeks in NICU, Samuel, weighing just 3 pounds, joined the Tyler family on June 2, 2022, seamlessly fitting into their home.
After nearly two years of fostering, the Tylers officially adopted Samuel on Dec. 18, 2023. Following a family tradition, they celebrated with a visit to a Build-A-Bear store, where Samuel crafted a firefighter bear, commemorating the special connection to the fire station.
Maintaining a strong connection to Samuel's birth story, the Tylers visited the fire station, capturing moments and celebrating milestones. Firefighters, recognizing the unique bond, handed the Tylers the note left for Samuel, a precious keepsake for the family.
Chris Tyler and his wife ventured into foster parenting nearly seven years ago, a decision rooted in their years-long struggle with infertility. As parents to two adopted sons, aged 5 and 7, the Tylers expressed that upon reading the news story about the infant surrendered at the fire station, they fervently "prayed and hoped" to be given the opportunity to welcome the baby into their home.
Raising Awareness of Safe Haven Laws
Lt. Col. Bobby Cooper from the Louisville Fire Department expressed pride in their role in Samuel's story. Cooper hopes the Tylers' journey raises awareness of safe haven laws, providing options for mothers in crisis situations and ensuring the safe surrender of newborns.
With 114,000 children waiting for adoption in the U.S. foster care system, the Tylers aim to raise awareness not only about safe haven options but also the urgent need for fostering and adoption. Their story serves as a testament to the transformative power of love and familial bonds.
Tale to Tell as Samuel Grows Older
As Samuel grows older, the Tylers plan to share the incredible story of those who played a role in making him a part of their family. Chris Tyler emphasizes the importance of conveying to Samuel that he was loved, cherished, and entrusted to a good place by his biological mother.
In sharing their remarkable adoption journey, the Tylers hope to inspire others, not just with their story of adoption but also by shedding light on the broader issues of fostering, adoption, and the existence of safe haven laws across the United States.
Images provided by Heather Shay Photography LLC
