[From the Fall 2023 Showcase of Homes Magazine]
Written By Megin Potter | Photo Provided
“Every child has a purpose and a home to be found,” said Francine Apy, the founder of the Soulfilling by Francine Apy, an Adoption Coach who helps families navigate their adoption journey.
Francine Apy
On all sides of an adoption can reside some heartache (just like in all families) but in every situation, good can also prevail, she said.
“Since you can’t rewrite the past, why not focus on how you can write the future? With the right resources, support, and good people by your side, all can get to the other side and live their most vibrant, fulfilling lives.”
“My commitment is that when I connect with someone wanting to learn more about the world of adoption, I will be a beacon of light, a lighthouse, to help them navigate through their adoption journey.”
A Home for Every Child
For as long as she can remember, Francine wanted to be a mom, “I’m a mom that was blessed through adoption,” she said.
Even before adopting her three boys; now 21,19, and 16, adoption was a big part of Francine’s life. Of her family’s 11 grandchildren, eight have been adopted. She has also been inspired by the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption’s mission to find forever families for children in foster care.
“I knew my mission in life would be giving back to the adoption community in some way,” said Francine.
The Biggest Blessing
With private adoptions like those Francine has experienced, the process begins with creating a compelling personal profile. Francine, a Catholic, attributes what happened next to prayer and the Blessed Mother: she and her husband, Ray, submitted their request in October, were notified of the match in November, and in December, their son was born. The arrival of their other two children was equally fortuitous.
“They didn’t grow in my belly, but they grew in my heart,” she said.
Francine tells the boys what she can about their birth parents.
“I never thought for a moment my children wouldn’t know where they came from,” she said. “In the ‘nature vs. nurture’ discussion, at the end of the day, both are beautiful pieces of the puzzle brought together equally.”
As an adoption coach, Francine strives to mainstream conversations around adoption.
“I believe family is family,” said Francine.
Changing Their World
Francine’s adoption coaching guides birth mothers, adoptive parents, and adoptees with powerful questions, unearthing the answers they already possess within themselves, relieving anxiety, stress, and confusion with compassion, support, and encouragement.
Her leadership, coaching and counseling, performance management, and positive psychology skills were crafted and informed by her English Communications degree from LeMoyne College, 25 years of continuing studies in human resources, and her personal experiences. A recent graduate of the CaPP Institute Coach Training Intensive, Francine is coach, facilitator, and private confidant.
“I can talk to those on all sides of the adoption triangle, pre- or post-adoption. I can be that one person they have to talk openly and freely with about what they are feeling and experiencing.”
“I may not have all the answers, but I can listen, speak from my experience, and help them through their process.”
“Share as much as you can about your decision with your children, closest friends, and family,” advises Francine, “so that you can help educate them and you can support each other on the journey.”
“Join me in the adoption conversation.”
And… throw in some bling.
Tokens of Gratitude
Adoption gifts call attention to how wonderfully special these families are.
Francine celebrates all sides of adoption through SoulFilling's Bright Light Boutique, with unique adoption-related gifts and apparel that she curated herself. The softly whimsical custom triangle and heart pendant (symbolizing the child, birth family, and adoptive parents brought together by love) is available in sterling silver, gold, and rose gold with white gold.
Casual, fun, and pretty come together in SoulFilling's Bright Light Boutique's apparel and gift line, made by Spectrum Designs, a nonprofit creating inclusive employment and vocational training opportunities for all.
Learn more about Soulfilling's Adoption Coaching services, and visit their pop-up store September 17 – December 31 at soulfillingadoption.com.
November is National Adoption Month, for events and more information, follow Soulfilling on Facebook and Instagram.
