Five years ago, Christie and Wesley Werts began their journey as a married couple, bringing their individual families together to create one united home. Christie’s daughter, Megan, and Wesley’s children, Austin and Dakota, became siblings under one roof, forming a beautifully blended family. Their love and dedication to each other provided the foundation for their family’s happiness. However, their journey took an unexpected and extraordinary turn that would lead them to adopt a baby boy named Levi—a decision that forever changed their lives.
The path to adopting Levi was not easy. It required unwavering patience and determination from Christie and Wesley. Over the course of 16 months, they worked through the complexities of the adoption process, enduring emotional and logistical challenges. Despite the obstacles, the Werts family remained committed to bringing Levi into their home and hearts, confident that he belonged with them.
Levi’s story is one of hope and resilience, but it is also marked by tragedy. Born prematurely at 33 weeks in Texas in August 2021, Levi faced an uncertain start in life. His biological mother, Wesley’s ex-wife, had struggled with substance abuse and contracted COVID-19 during her pregnancy. Tragically, she passed away just four days after Levi’s birth. The devastating news was delivered to Wesley by his ex-wife’s sister, and it left the couple reeling. However, amidst their grief, Christie and Wesley saw an opportunity to honor Levi’s life by giving him a stable, loving home.
For Christie, the decision to adopt Levi felt almost predestined. Having grown up in foster care herself, she understood the importance of providing children with a nurturing and consistent environment. But what made Levi’s story even more extraordinary was Christie’s connection to him before she ever met him. For three months leading up to Levi’s birth, Christie experienced recurring dreams of a blond-haired, blue-eyed baby. When she first saw Levi, she immediately felt a powerful bond. “When I walked in and saw this blond-haired, blue-eyed baby, I immediately fell in love. It was a very surreal feeling. This was my son,” Christie shared.
The road to adoption was fraught with challenges. Infant adoptions often involve legal complexities, and Levi’s case was no exception. Christie and Wesley made significant sacrifices to ensure the process moved forward. They sold their home in Ohio and relocated to Texas, where they stayed for court proceedings and other legal requirements. Among the most difficult steps was the termination of Levi’s biological father’s parental rights, a necessary action to secure Levi’s future with the Werts family.
For over a year, Christie and Wesley endured numerous home inspections, interviews, and court hearings. Each step brought them closer to their goal of officially making Levi a part of their family. Finally, after months of uncertainty and effort, the adoption was finalized. Levi became their son, and the Werts family’s journey reached a heartwarming conclusion.
While many people celebrated Christie and Wesley’s story, the couple also faced criticism after Christie shared their experience online. Some social media users questioned the appropriateness of posting such a personal and emotional story publicly. One commenter expressed concern, saying, “I mean, poor baby, he’s gonna see this when he grows up, and it’s gonna give him a lot of depression and more.” Another added, “Some things you don’t share on the media, and this is one of them.”
Despite the backlash, others applauded the Werts family’s selflessness and love. Supporters left messages of encouragement, with one person writing, “I’m so happy for you guys! Levi is lucky to have such loving parents.” Another added, “This is a beautiful story. Ignore the negativity and focus on the happiness you’ve brought into Levi’s life.”
For Christie and Wesley, the decision to adopt Levi was deeply personal and rooted in love. While sharing their story online opened them up to criticism, it also allowed them to inspire others with their unwavering commitment to family. Their journey to bring Levi home is a testament to the power of love, resilience, and the belief that every child deserves a chance at a better life.
What do you think of this family’s story? Would you have made the same decision? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
