7 Siblings’ Adoption Journey Celebrated at the Foster Love Gala

In September 2019, 7 siblings faced a heartbreaking tragedy. Fifteen-year-old Adelino, thirteen-year-old Ruby, nine-year-old Aleecia, eight-year-old Anthony, seven-year-old Aubriella, five-year-old Leo, and four-year-old Xander lost both parents in a devastating car accident. All 7 children were placed in foster care, facing the painfully likely possibility of being separated from one another.

Aleecia, who was just six years old at the time, recalls, “I was so scared. We were going to be separated, that was scary.”

Not long after, Pam and Gary Willis—former foster parents from Menifee, California—came across a Facebook post about the Willis siblings. With their own 5 children already moved out of the house, the couple had been preparing for retirement. But when they learned about the siblings’ story, everything changed. They made the life-changing decision to adopt them, ensuring all siblings would stay together as a family.

Pam lovingly calls them the “second chance seven,” because it was their second chance at parenting and a second chance at a life together for the kids.

The Beginning of Their Adoption Journey

When Pam first sent the post to her husband, she fully expected his hesitation. “I thought Gary was going to tell me I was wacko,” Pam joked in a People Magazine interview, “We were getting ready to retire.” But she says Gary instantly felt the same way. “He looked at me for a second, and he said, ‘We should adopt these kids.’ He was totally on the same page as I was.”

The couple, already parents to five grown children, had been foster parents before but had never planned to adopt. But something about this felt different, like destiny.

Their decision was only deepened when they learned what the children wanted most. For Christmas, their wish was to be adopted. Pam said, “It really pierced my heart. Honestly, I just knew I was supposed to be their mom.”

Looking back, the family sees their story as nothing short of extraordinary. “The main thing I learned is that miracles do happen,” Adelino said.

Why Siblings Are Placed in Different Foster Homes

Stories like the Willis family’s are rare because, all too often, siblings in foster care are separated. Children may be placed in different homes due to factors such as the availability of foster parents, limited resources, or the need for specialized care that a single household cannot provide.

While temporary placements are meant to provide safety and stability, they can also leave kids feeling isolated and unsure about the future.

The Second Chance 7 are a remarkable story, one that could become more common if more people choose to open their hearts and homes to foster children. Their journey is also a powerful reminder of why events like Disney Days are so important—giving siblings in foster care a chance to make memories, share joy, and feel the magic of being together.

You can follow their journey as it unfolds on Pam’s Instagram: @second.chance.7 and on their website at www.secondchance7.org

A Night to Remember at the Gala

At the Foster Love Believe Gala, we honored the Willis family with the “Family of the Year” award. Their story of resilience, commitment, and unshakable love is an inspiration to people across the country.

From the day the siblings walked into their new home to the night we celebrated them at the Gala, the Willis family’s journey has been a powerful reminder of what family means. Their lives have been filled with new experiences, hope for the future, and the security every child deserves.

READ THE FOSTER LOVE BELIEVE GALA RECAP HERE