Fostering can be a life-changing experience for both children and parents. Meet Teadria and Scott, two of our incredible foster parents, who share their heartfelt story of becoming foster parents through Necco. It's a journey filled with love, challenges, and unforgettable moments. Watch the video to hear directly from them.
A Journey Sparked by Personal Challenges
Teadria and Scott’s journey to fostering began in a difficult place. About eight months before they started fostering, Teadria was diagnosed with cervical cancer. After years of trying to have children, her diagnosis led to a full hysterectomy.
Reflecting on this time, Teadria says, “We didn’t know what to do. My Facebook memories showed my hysterectomy, and it was like, immediately after that, we had three children within the year.”
From "Never" to "Yes"—Welcoming Teenagers
Initially, Teadria and Scott were licensed to foster younger children. They laughed at the idea of fostering three kids or teenagers, thinking it wasn’t in their plans. But life had a way of surprising them. “We have three kids and a teenager now,” Scott recalls, laughing. "And she’s been so much fun."
Finding Support in Necco
One of the key reasons Teadria and Scott chose Necco as their foster care partner was the support they received throughout the process. “Anytime we need help, we can call Lauren,” Teadria shares. “She’s been right there with us. Necco has supported us in every step of our foster parenting journey.”
This support has been a critical part of their success as foster parents, helping them navigate both the challenges and joys of fostering.
Building Cherished Memories With Their Children
Fostering has been a journey of "firsts" for Tedra and Scott. Each child has brought their own unique experiences and moments of joy. From karate classes to joining JROTC to preschool pickups, these shared moments with their children have been celebrated and have a special place in their family's hearts.
Embracing the Chaos—and the Love
Fostering hasn’t always been easy. But with patience, humor, and a lot of love, they’ve built a new life with their children. “Our lives are chaotic, but in a positive way,” Teadria explains.
Before children, life followed a predictable routine. Now, their mornings are filled with the sound of little feet running across the floor, requests for pancakes, and the joy of simply being a family.
The Power of ‘Firsts’
Fostering has allowed Teadria and Scott to experience many firsts, not just for their children but for themselves as parents. From losing a tooth and the magic of the tooth fairy to trick-or-treating and planning trips to the zoo, they’ve shared so many new experiences with their children.
Teadria reflects, “I prayed a lot since I had cervical cancer. And when I had my hysterectomy, I realized that everything happens for a reason. If I hadn’t had the surgery, I never would’ve had my children.”
A Life-Changing Decision
Fostering with Necco has transformed Tedra and Scott’s lives in ways they never imagined. “It may sound cliché, but we didn’t realize how much we needed this kind of love,” Teadria says. “They make us whole.”
For Teadria and Scott, fostering has brought a sense of completeness to their home—a feeling they wouldn’t trade for anything.
Advice for Aspiring Foster Parents
For anyone considering fostering: “Do it,” Teadria encourages. “The research and classes are so important. It’s not always sunshine and rainbows, but with patience, you can get through the tough moments.”
Scott adds, “Pick your battles and laugh a lot. Fostering brings so much joy into your life, even when it’s chaotic.”
Join Us in Creating Families
We are so grateful to have parents like Teadria and Scott be a part of Necco and celebrate their dedication. Together, we can change lives and build a brighter future for children in foster care. We encourage you reading this to #BeHome for them.
If you want to become a foster parent or learn more about the process, visit: https://necco.org/.
If you want to make a difference in the lives of children every day you go to work, visit our careers page at https://.necco.org/careers.