Guest Author - Jessica Steinmetz

My husband and I are taking in an exhange student with cerebral palsy. I also have cerebral palsy.

In early June, I was contacted via email about taking an exchange student who had cerebral palsy. The organization, AYUSA, is the one that contacted me. They said they had a student who had mild CP and wondered if we or we knew someone that would take her.

My husband and I have no children. We want children and are trying, but no luck yet. We discussed foster care and adoption, but we kept putting it off. So, when they emailed me, we felt it was time to give.

A representative came to our house and interviewed us. She liked us and thought it would be a perfect match. We had to give references and paperwork. In about a week, we knew we were accepted. The excitement built.

We have an extra room that we had to clear, and buy furniture for. Other than that, we are so excited. She comes July 30 - May.

My biggest fear is getting really attached and then saying goodbye. I don't believe our disabilities will be a major deal. She can basically care for herself. We heard that many families do not want exchange students with disabilities, but all they need is a chance.

If you're interested in being a host family, contact AYUSA today!