Wednesday Child Success Story

Northford (WTNH) - A local family is telling their story of overcoming heartache. They opened their home not once, but twice, to take in a child and they're hoping their story will inspire others to do the same.

One of the easiest things to spot at the Bathija-Salani home is a smile. But it took the family some time to get there.

Dr. Nick Bathija and his wife Dr. Varsha Salani had their hearts broken when the first child they took into their home for three years was returned to his grandfather. Ironically, that pain helped them realize just how much love they have to give and inspired them to adopt Samir.

"The inspiration was that we weren't going to let that incident affect our happiness," Nick said.

And Samir -- his mom and dad say -- has added a lot of happiness.

"He brought a whole new dynamic to the house, from going from a girl and everything princessy to a rough and tough boy. But the two of them get along great," Varsha said.

Samir and Thara are brothers and sisters in every sense, but birth.

"We speak Hindi to him, just like we do to our daughter. He actually prefers Indian food over American Food at this point," Varsha said.

And once Samir graduates from these carefree days of non-stop play and starts school his parents say they may even adopt another child.

Varsha and Nick say it's not about the size of your house or your bank account. It's about finding room in your heart to help a child in need.

"I would encourage anybody who has the means and the resources and the capacity for love. And I don't mean the financial resources because that's not necessary. These kids are happy and content just knowing they have the warmth, compassion and love of a parent's love," Varsha said.

And there are dozens of children all across Connecticut -- like Samir -- who need just that.

If you are interested in adopting a child or if you'd just like to learn more about becoming a foster parent, please call 800-842-6348.