SUCCESS-ERIC

ERIC - A SHELTERING WINGS SUCCESS STORY

Eric's mother, Blandine, was just 19 years old when he was born. His father, Joel, was still a student and was just 18 years old when he was born. His parents were not married. Joel refused that he was the father of Eric. He refused to help the Blandine during her pregnancy or after Eric was born. A paternity blood test proved that Joel was the father.

Blandine struggled to provide for herself and for Eric. Sometimes she slept at the train station because she did not have a home to go to. (Because of the shame of her pregnancy outside of marriage, she was kicked out of her family courtyard.)

Over time, Blandine became involved with another man and had a child by this man. This man invited Blandine to be his wife, but he would not accept the responsibility of Eric who was not his child. Out of desperation to survive and to care for her new baby, Blandine went to Social Action and abandoned Eric.

When Eric came to the orphanage he was about 2 1/2. He was malnourished and so weak that he could barely walk. Now, Eric is 3 1/2 and he is a healthy, happy toddler. We will wait for a few more months and take his case back to the judge to see whether Joel wants Eric or if he will be released for adoption.