This article was originally published on 24/7Mirror
What you are about to read is a truly inspirational story of a couple who remained patient despite so many setbacks and reaped some unimaginable rewards. Sarah and Andy Justice tried to conceive for many years but to no avail. What happened to them next is surely going to change your perspective about life.
A Happy Married Life
Sarah and Andy Justice of Tulsa, Oklahoma were living a pleasant married life. They were happy and satisfied with their three years of marriage, when they decided that it was time for them to start growing their family and share their happiness with another human being.
As it is the case with most couples who've been married for a few years, the Justices knew that their next step was to conceive a child. It was a big decision but both of them knew each other and had developed a strong bond over the years. It was that special love that prompted them to add a new family member. Unfortunately, fate had a different plan for the lovely couple.
Difficulties in Conceiving
As the Justices took the big decision to grow their family, they started their attempts. However, Sarah had difficulty conceiving. Although the couple remained optimistic, their hope began to fade away as three grueling years of attempts to get pregnant delivered no success.
With years of continuous trying and seeing no success, it started to take its toll on the couple, especially Sarah. The inability of Sarah to get pregnant was starting to cause a strain over their marriage, and so they decided that they had to look into other options.
Visiting a Fertility Doctor
Sarah and Andy were first heartbroken, but not being able to get pregnant was none of their faults. The couple knew that they needed to look into other options to keep their marriage strong.
So, the couple started their search for the best fertility doctor in Tulsa and the closest one they could find was in St. Louis, Missouri. They wanted to go to the most reputable fertility specialists, but traveling to St. Louis, Missouri was a huge inconvenience for them. Still, they were ready to pay this little price. They were ready to make the trip.
Traveling Six Hours to Receive the News
It was 2014 and the Justices embarked on their six-hour-long interstate drive from their beautiful home in Tulsa to the big city of St. Louis. It was a long drive, but they were determined to get Sarah the fertility treatment she needed.
After arriving in St. Louis, Sarah met the doctor and underwent the prescribed fertility treatment. While they were waiting for the results, they remained hopeful. However, they didn't know that more bad news was coming their way. The doctor gave them the heartbreaking news that left the couple devastated. However, they were still determined to have a baby and so they started to look at other options.
Considering In-Vitro Fertilization
Sarah and Andy had done some research on the in-vitro fertilization process and when they asked their fertility doctor whether it could be used as an option to conceive, they didn't get a satisfactory answer. They were told that both of them were suitable candidates for the process, but there was only a 10% success chance.
There was little chance of Sarah getting pregnant and also that she had to undergo a grueling process. It is because the procedure is an incredibly invasive process in which Sarah would've had to have hormone treatments that would’ve taken months before moving on to her eggs getting harvested right out of her ovaries. So, there was huge possibility that after the entire process the embryo wouldn't implant.
Too Much of a Risk
Another reason that was making it difficult for Sarah and Andy to make the final decision was the incredible cost of in-vitro fertilization process. A basic IVF cycle can easily cost from $12,000 to $15,000. So, it was without any doubt a considerable risk as there was only 10% chance of its success.
Moreover, the IVF procedure isn't covered by health insurance and the couple knew that they had to spend about $60,000 on it. Was there another option for the desperate couple?
Turning To Adoption
As Sarah and Andy knew about the huge risk that was involved in the IVF procedure, they started considering the option of adoption. They weren't able to conceive after years of trying and they were growing more desperate to become parents with time.
So, they made the final decision to move forward with the adoption process. People who have adopted or are in the process of adopting a child can agree that the adoption process is quite hectic as well. There is a lengthy application process, the personal lives and living situations of prospective parents get vetted and only after thorough checking they're allowed to adopt a child.
A Grueling Process of Adoption
Andy and Sarah knew that sometimes it could even take years to adopt a child, especially if you want to adopt a newborn. However, they had made their choice and were determined to achieve it. They had made up their mind to stop at nothing.
As they started the adoption process, they met another set of hurdles that seemed destined to come in their way to adopting a child. All the loving couple wanted a child and it became apparent to them that it would not be a short, smooth process.
Adoption Agency Evaluation
Once the adoption application was submitted by the Justices, it got approved by the adoption agency. Now their home had to be evaluated as the agency had to make sure it was fit to raise a child in it. It was a time-taking task, but the biggest part of the adoption process that was giving Goosebumps to the Justices was something else. It was the Interview!
Although they were anxious, they knew that they had to keep their cool and remain clear-headed to pass the interview. The adoption agency went on to organize interviews for the couple with prospective birth mothers who had decided to give their child to a loving family. It seems quite straightforward, right? Well, it wasn't.
They Were Chosen, But...
The couple was ecstatic at hearing the news by the adoption agency that one of the mothers that they had met had decided to choose them to raise her child. Sarah and Andy were exhausted by the extensive interview process; the news felt like a breath of fresh air to them. They felt their prayers have been answered and they were just one step closer to becoming happy parents.
The Justices gave their undivided attention and support to the birth mother through her pregnancy while they also prepared themselves for the new addition to their little family. However, they didn't know that things would take a turn for the worst just when everything seemed to be going perfect.
So Close Yet So Far
Sarah and Andy were happy that soon they'll welcome a new child into their home, but they found out that the birth mother decided to back out at the last minute. They were heartbroken, but they decided that they need to keep on trying.
They contacted the adoption agency to let them know that they are still as determined as they were before and they want to become parents at any cost. They had to go through the same procedure again and this time a new birthmother chose them as well. They were happy but they didn't know that another setback was coming their way. The second potential birthmother also decided to keep the baby. These setbacks were starting to take toll of both Sarah and Andy.
They Remained Determined
Sarah and Andy knew one thing and that was to not give up on their dream. Although the Justices stayed with the birth mothers at every step of the way, both of them decided to keep their babies at the very last minute.
The Justices, despite feeling heartbroken, had to respect their decision. But it doesn't mean they were left so devastated that they gave up. Up until this point, the Justices showed some remarkable resilience. Giving up was not an option for them. Hence, they decided again to keep on trying.
A Life-Changing Call
Both Sarah and Andy didn't lose all hope, but one can understand that they were disappointed and a little discouraged as well. As they kept praying to hear the good news, their prayers were finally answered as they received a call that would go on to change their lives forever.
They had to go through a lot and it is really amazing how they were able to contain themselves even after experiencing failure so many times. It was their belief in their God and determination that helped them.
Getting Lucky
The Justices felt at the lowest point of their married life when the second mom backed out. But when Sarah received a call from the adoption agency, the kind couple started dreaming again.
The agency told the Justices that there was a third mother who'd chosen them to adopt her baby. They were excited again, but little did they know that the third mother had something else up her sleeve that would have a huge impact on their lives.
A Big Surprise
Sarah and Andy couldn't believe what they heard and they took some time to absorb the thrilling news. As they were involved with previous mothers, they were also there for the third mother at every step. They got super excited when the third mother invited them to an ultrasound appointment.
At the appointment, the couple saw their new child for the very first time. However, the scan showed something else that surprised everyone. The birth mom was actually carrying three babies instead of one.
Not One, Two, But Three Babies
The birth mother, doctor, Sarah, and Andy were completely shocked when they saw there were three heartbeats on the ultrasound monitor. They didn't lose hope when the first mother decided to keep the baby, they remained resilient when the second mother also decided to keep her baby and they were expecting just one bundle of joy. But they didn't know that the universe was planning on making up for previous chances that didn't deliver the results the couple wanted.
At that point, they just wanted to adopt one child. However, it all changed when they saw there were three babies coming their way. The Justices started preparing for the new additions.
Ready For the Challenge
The Justices were not expecting triplets even in their wildest dreams, but they were ready to face the new challenges with some concerns and excitement.
They knew that they had to raise more than one child down the road, so why not raise three at the same time. It also meant that they didn't have to go through the tiresome adoption process multiple times. This adoption was giving them the family they always wanted.
Commencing Preparation
The Justices weren't expecting three bundles of joy in their humble home. So, they had to prepare for their arrival without wasting any time. Firstly, they baby-proof their entire house (including strollers and cribs). Secondly, they also bought the necessities for the triplets.
Their dream was finally becoming true and they wanted to make sure that everything was in order. They couldn't be more excited. They spent hours ensuring they had everything ready.
Premature Births
As Andy and Sarah waited for the birth of triplets, they came to know about the news of birth mother going to labor eight weeks early as her water broke. The couple went to the hospital and anxiously waited to meet their new babies. It was grueling labor and after hours of wait, the birth mother was able to deliver three cute, tiny babies.
The weight of each baby was just three pounds. They named the babies Hannah, Joel, and Elizabeth. Before the couple could take the babies home, they had to overcome another hurdle.
Another Wait
As the triplets were born eight weeks early, the doctors considered the births premature. That's why they had to be kept in the neonatal intensive care unit for a while before they were healthy to go with their new parents Sarah and Andy.
The couple remained positive and waited patiently for the triplets to get healthy. They were really excited to expand their family, but there was something else that would happen.
Something Unexpected Happened
Sarah began to feel sick one week after the birth of triplets. It wasn't out of the ordinary as the lengthy adoption process and seeing two mothers back down at last minute took its toll on the Justices.
She thought it would be better to visit a doctor just to be on the safe side, mainly because the babies were coming home and she wanted to be in her best health for them. After a thorough evaluation by the doctor, the reports came and Sarah could hardly believe what she heard.
She Got Pregnant!
The doctor conducted so many tests to find out why Sarah was sick. Well, they discovered the reason and it was something that no one was expecting - not even in a million years. Sarah was experiencing the symptoms of pregnancy. She was indeed pregnant.
It certainly was a huge shock for Sarah and Andy as they had just recently adopted triplets. It was such incredible news for them, but it also made them nervous as it now meant that they had to raise three newborns during pregnancy. Sarah and her husband were mentally prepared to take on the challenge – little did they know that it wasn't the end of their blessings.
They Keep On Coming
At first, Justices tried their best to become parents and when Sarah couldn't conceive a baby they went for the adoption. Even at adoption they faced quite a lot of complications and adopting a single child seemed like a big ask. But then the fortunes of the Justices changed dramatically.
After a few months into the pregnancy, the Justices discovered that Sarah was pregnant with twins. It was astounding news for the Justices as they were happy and somewhat nervous because they were about to raise five babies at once.
A Unique Parenting Experience
Not many parents out there can say that they've had experience of raising newborn triplets during a pregnancy. The Justices did get a bit stressed out over it, but they soon started to see the humor in the situation and were more than ready to roll with what was happening to them.
They felt rather fortunate and considered it an incredible blessing. It surely felt as if the universe was trying to pay them back for the years of wait they had to endure. Sarah and Andy started to enjoy the unique experience for the first time and felt super blessed.
A Fast and Life-changing Transformation
From a family of two to becoming a family of seven, it all happened in just under a year. It seemed as unbelievable to them as it seems to us right now. Sarah went into labor a few months before the triplets turned one year old. The Justices welcomed twins into their lives after a long, exhausting delivery. They named their twins Andrew and Abigail.
By raising five beautiful babies, Sarah and Andy felt blessed to have a complete family. It seemed as if life was finally getting less difficult for them and they were super excited at the prospect of seeing their family grow. Adjusting the twins wasn't a lot difficult because Sarah and Andy already had gained experience in raising newborns (triplets). But of course, it was a lifestyle adjustment for Sarah and Andy as they had lived alone for many years.
Others Stepped Forward to Help
Even when there is just one newborn, most new parents experience a lack of sleep. In the case of Justices, there were five growing babies and it did seem like a lot. Thankfully, there was the loving support of their family and friends who ensured the Justices don't get deprived of sleep.
The community also chipped in to help the Justices because people started to realize that it would take time for the new parents to adjust to an entirely new lifestyle. Tulsa's Eastland Baptist Church helped by donating baby formula and cooked meals for the growing family. The Justices felt blessed to receive help from a lot of people.
Everyone Wanted to Help
It wouldn’t be too wrong to describe the situation of the Justices as a miracle. When the word got out and people started to know about the incredible story of the Justices, even the strangers were compelled to help the new parents.
The friends and family of the Justices helped by offering to babysit while both parents went to work; there was also support from strangers from all over Oklahoma. As the Justices had to manage 200 diapers and at least 84 bottles of milk a week, strangers from Oklahoma started sending bottles, diapers, clothes, and blankets.
The Trick of Telling The Babies Apart
Sarah and Andy had to adjust to some of the definite changes in their lives and they had to shift their personal schedules to accommodate the babies. They also had to invest in a bigger van because their vehicle wasn't big enough for the entire family.
Telling their babies apart seemed like a big challenge for them as well. To overcome the challenge, Sarah and Andy painted each baby's toenail with a different color.
Something Unbelievable Happened
The story of Sarah and Andy is, without a doubt, something truly incredible. As most remarkable things in the digital age get viral, the Justices' story started to make rounds on the internet as well. Like most stories, the Justices' story gained attention on Facebook.
The story got shared so many times that people started to become obsessed with the Justices and wanted to know more about them. The Justices, as expected, gained a huge following from all over the world and the followers eagerly looked forward to the updates about the five cute bundles of joy. As things were going great, something else happened. Sarah became pregnant again!
Waiting for Another Family Member
The incredible story of the Justices went viral, but it didn't happen until the triplets and the twins were already toddlers. So, it became a bit of huge news when Sarah discovered that she was pregnant again.
It may seem overwhelming to others, but the Justices were super thrilled on the news of another addition to their family of seven. In 2016, Sarah and Andy welcome their sixth child, a boy, into their little world. Sarah told Today, "We just really love having these children."
Preparing for Another Bundle of Joy
When the Justices received the news that their sixth baby was on the way, the triplets and the twins were already about two years old. As parents who were already raising five kids, welcoming another member and raising him seemed like a walk in the park.
Some people might even say that it was way easier because now there was just one infant rather than multiples. However, parenting is never an easy journey and the Justices had to face numerous challenges.
It Was Hectic Nonetheless
Although the triplets and the twins were almost two years old at the birth of their baby brother, they were not old enough to take on some of the responsibilities in the house. So, it meant that Sarah and Andy had to take care of everything and it got pretty crazy at times for them. But it still seemed like something Sarah and Andy didn't mind doing the work as they prayed for years to become parents.
With cute triplets Hannah, Joel, and Elizabeth, and twins Abigail and Andrew and the sixth baby, they were one big happy family. The Justices would often go out with the children despite the fact that it was a bit challenging to keep track of everyone.
Everything Was Moving Fast
As Sarah and Andy welcomed their sixth child, Caleb, into the mix, the triplets and the twins were nearing four years old. So, it was pretty obvious that everything was moving fast for them.
While Sarah and Andy focused on their newborn, they didn't have to worry a lot about the other five kids as they had already completed the process of potty training. What came as a massive relief to the Justices was the fact that the five kids were growing up and were starting to do things on their own.
A Dream That Took Years To Come True
One can say that being overwhelmed was the last thing on Sarah's mind at that point because her dream, which she saw with her husband, finally became true and they became parents of not one, two, but six children. No one thought that they would be able to grow their small family of two into eight members in such a short period.
In an interview with Babyologyin, Sarah said, "Having a number of children is a dream come true. When you wait for something you appreciate it that much more when you get it." They indeed waited a long time to see children playing in their home and they were ever so grateful to finally see voices of kids playing, laughing, and sometimes crying in their own home.
The Transition from Cribs to Toddler Beds
As Sarah and Andy had to adjust a lot in their lives, it was time for the kids to do the same as well. In 2016, the kids had to experience the transition of moving from their cribs into toddler beds.
It can be a worrying time for the parents because now the kids have to adjust sleeping on a bed without walls. Another worrying thing is that the kids can now get out of bed themselves. Sarah told Babyology that, "Having five in toddle beds is an adventure. But we are getting there."
Developing a New Routine
When it comes to raising six infants, you'd have to be extra careful as it is not an easy feat. The Justices had to devote their full attention to the kids. How did they do it? Well, one thing that they did was to ensure everything was organized. They made sure that their day was fully planned and everything was done on schedule.
They knew that schedule plays a pivotal role in raising a big family and that's why they made sure they follow plans with very little leniency. For instance, every day started with a morning walk and then it would be followed by breakfast, play dates with friends, and taking on chores in the evenings.
The Biggest Challenge of All
What do is think was the biggest challenge the Justices had to face? Well, it was none other than potty training. "Potty breaks are a big part of our day when you have five children at the same life stage," Sarah said. It can be pretty stressful, depending on how you are able to handle it.
Every parent can understand it because trying to potty train even one kid can be really demanding and the Justices had to potty train five kids at once. It was by far their biggest challenge and we can surely understand why.
A Strong Bond
When there are so many children who are relatively the same age, parents don't have to worry a lot about any child feeling that he/she is left out. As all of the Justices Children are about the same age, except for Caleb, they have developed a strong sibling bond.
The triplets and the twins take care of Caleb and do everything together. “We never lack playmates and work to promote love and care between the siblings. Our children will always have a friend and will never need to feel lonely,” Sarah told Babyology.
Baby Brother Getting The Love and Care
When Caleb entered the beautiful family of seven, the Justices were more than prepared to take on the new challenge of raising an infant. It is because they went from using hundreds of bottles and diapers a week to just a few.
All the older siblings adore and take care of their baby brother. "All of the kids absolutely adore their 'baby Caleb.' He has the best fan club ever and we cannot imagine life without the sweetest, most loved little guy in the world," Sarah said.
The Fruit of Patience is Sweet
The quote by Aristotle, “Patience is bitter, but its fruit is sweet,” perfectly fits for Sarah and Andy. They waited for years to become parents and they might've even lost all hope, but they kept on trying. They faced several disappointments, but they remained persistent and hopeful.
"They bring a great deal of joy to our lives and we enjoy watching them love life," Sarah told Babyology. The patience of the Justices helped them reap some unimaginable rewards. The story of the Justices tells us why we need to remain patient even when things are not going our way. Their story tells us that we need to stay positive in most heartbreaking moments.