At ten years old my life split in two. My parents dropped me off at Gran’s “for a little while” so they could focus on my younger sister Chloe’s gymnastics career. That temporary arrangement became permanent. Gran did her best, but she was aging and struggling. A few months later my Uncle Rob and Aunt Lisa took me in. Unable to have children of their own, they called me their miracle kid and treated me as one from the start.

Over the years they became the parents I had always needed. Lisa braided my hair and attended every school event. Rob spoiled me with ice cream and endless dad jokes. When I was sixteen they officially adopted me. Meanwhile my biological parents drifted further away. There were no birthday cards, no calls, and no support. By the time I turned twelve I stopped reaching out. I built a full life with Rob and Lisa, discovered a passion for IT, graduated, and started a career I love.