“Minor, correctable special needs.”
Most of us would agree that most kids with cleft palate, small holes in the heart, club feet, and other minor, correctable special needs are really not “special needs” at all. Holt International offers a China program specifically for these children that allows families to bring home children home in less than a year in some cases. It’s a win-win–the wait for both parties is dramatically reduced. These kids are so “adoptable” because we are able to comfort ourselves with the fact that our western medicine can make their medical concerns such non-issues.
So what about HIV positive kids?
Would it surprise you to know that viral load levels can be made undetectable with Anti Retro viral (ARV) medication?
In many cases, living with HIV is no different than living with diabetes.
The key is proper nutrition, medical care, and, sometimes, medication that children cannot receive in third world country institutions.
I can’t really do this topic justice but Project Hopeful is doing a great job of resourcing and educating families. If you are considering adopting internationally, I would encourage you to prayerfully considering adopting a HIV positive child.