May 10, 2026

This Mother's Day, we are celebrating the beautiful bond that Emilie and her adopted son, Elizabeth Seton Children's Center resident Salvatore, continue to build together - one rooted in patience, faith, belonging and unconditional love.

Sal has a glowing smile that brings joy to everyone around him. And nothing makes him smile bigger than spending time with Emilie - especially when they're reading their favorite books together.

Sal uses eye-gaze technology - a tool that helps him communicate using his eyesight - to choose books he wants Emilie to read during their visits. One of his favorites is "You Are Special" by Max Lucado, a story that celebrates the God-given value within every person. It has become deeply meaningful to both of them.

"He definitely knows I'm his mom and I love him for exactly who he is - just like the lesson woven throughout the book and just like the love the staff at Seton show him every day," Emilie shared. "Our connection is spiritual. He knows he is chosen by me and, most importantly, by God."

For Emilie, the cornerstone of motherhood has always been belonging. As an adoptee herself, who spent time in foster care growing up, she felt a profound calling to open her heart to a child with highly complex medical needs and to be the person who could remind them they were chosen, cherished and never alone. That calling ultimately led her to Sal.

Now, two years after his adoption became official, their connection continues to blossom and grow stronger every day.

This Mother's Day, we celebrate Emilie and all the mothers and mother figures whose compassion transforms lives in extraordinary ways!

 

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