When Lily first came to Boys Town North Florida’s Therapeutic Foster Family Services program two years ago, she had already faced many challenges in her young life. Having experienced neglect and maltreatment, she entered care with both physical and emotional needs.
Lily used a g-tube to ensure she received the daily nourishment her body required, and she had a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder. Though high-functioning, Lily’s early experiences made it difficult for her to trust others. When she first arrived, she was shy, reserved and often experienced nightly terrors.
From the very beginning, Lily showed quiet determination and courage. Her first foster parent recognized her gentle spirit and worked patiently to build a loving, secure bond with her. Through play and encouragement, Lily began to explore her world again. She learned various social skills, how to make eye contact and participated in shared activities. Over time, she took the brave step of greeting others and even introducing herself, which is something that had once felt overwhelming.
When her first foster parent needed to step away from caregiving due to medical reasons, everyone involved took great care to support Lily through the transition. With pre-teaching, gradual introductions and day visits, Lily moved into her new home with remarkable resilience. Her ability to adapt and trust again was a testament to how much she had already grown.
In her new foster home, Lily continued to flourish. Her foster parents recognized her eagerness to learn and her love for discovery. They created opportunities for her to assert her independence, engage in social interactions and participate in community and peer activities. With their support and her own determination, Lily truly began to blossom.
Today, Lily attends a mainstream kindergarten class where she is thriving academically and socially. She knows her letters and numbers, is learning to read, and can even count backward from 100, an achievement she proudly shares with those around her.
Lily continues to maintain a strong, positive connection with both her previous and current foster parents, showing how capable she is of forming healthy, trusting relationships. Her journey is a powerful example of what can happen when a child is surrounded by consistent care, encouragement and belief in her potential.
Thanks to the unwavering support of her foster parents and the therapeutic guidance from Boys Town North Florida, Lily’s journey continues to be one of transformation and growth. Her progress is a testament to what’s possible when a child is surrounded by compassion, consistency and belief in their potential. With each milestone, Lily reminds us that healing is possible and with the right care, every child can thrive.