Mature couple believes it’s never too late to make room for a child

SAN ANTONIO—When Pat and Thad Siweckis married, they never expected to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary by adopting a 2-year-old girl, but that’s exactly what happened.

With five grown biological children, one adopted son and grandchildren already in high school, the Siweckises found their house feeling empty.

That’s when they decided to volunteer as foster parents through Baptist Child & Family Services .

Ariel was only 4 months old when she came into the couple’s home with 10 broken bones.

“She stole our hearts right away, and we realized pretty quickly that it would be hard to give her up,” Pat Siweckis said. “I prayed God would give us the strength if that was his will.”

Strength—and energy—could be an issue. Pat Siweckis is 65, and her husband is 69. But when Ariel’s parents’ rights were terminated in April, the Siweckises knew they couldn’t let her go. They wanted to adopt her.

“We know that she is a gift from God, and she gives us a reason to get up in the morning,” Siweckis said.

The Siweckises have a huge support system, including their home church, First Baptist of Universal City, as well as family to help them love and care for Ariel.

The couple also had the opportunity to meet Ariel’s biological mother and the grandmother of Ariel’s half sister, who has custody of her sister and brother. Now, Ariel can grow up knowing her siblings.

“We truly believe that Ariel’s mom loves her. She’s just not at a point in her life where she can care for her,” Siweckis said.

The Siweckises believe they have been blessed with a spiritual gift of caring for children, knowing the kingdom of God belongs to little children such as Ariel.

They say their motto is, “There’s always room for one more.”