Ted Wilson

Angels in Adoption 2005 - Colorado

Selected by Representative Bob Beauprez

As a parent, all you really want is for your children to grow up and be healthy, happy, and contributing members of society. Despite parental good intentions and every effort expended, sometimes what you end up with is not the result you wanted. Parents are then faced with a tortuous proposition, what do you do? Ted and Norma Wilson chose to gather their family and resources, and move on. Ted and Norma are a Native American couple. They have been together for 26 years and each brought to their marriage children from previous relationships. The Wilsons believe in the value of a strong family and in supporting their children. Their family valued led them to a very important role in the life of their granddaughter. Norma and Ted were asked to baby-sit Norma's sons two young girls while he and his wife vacationed. When the parents returned, they took their elder daughter with them, leaving their younger, Desiree, behind. Desiree was only 2 months old at the time. Ted and Norma assumed the daunting responsibility of raising Desiree with the hope that Norma's son would eventually return to raise her. Unfortunately, Norma's son did not return. Desiree is also Native American and had to be registered when she reached 1 year old. Desiree has two tribal lineages, which makes registration difficult. This was just one of the many challenges Ted and Norma encountered and surmounted. Ted and Norma legally adopted Desiree when she was 13 years old. They continue to care for her today, loving her as their own. Desiree in now 17 and a student at Brighton High School. She plans to attend college next year. Ted and Norma exemplify the spirit of their ancestors - noble, dedicated, tenacious, and family-focused. Ted is 84 and in failing health. He has been hospitalized for the past month and will probably require surgeryif his strength returns. Norma is 62 years old, does not drive, and relies on public transportation to get to the hospital and nursing home to see Ted. Desiree continues to be a source of support to her grandparents during this time. Ted, Norma, and Desiree's family was created through necessity and love. Their bond was built and continues to grow through deliberate choices they have made of commitment to each other. Ted and Norma have certainly been a remarkable presence in Desiree's life, but she in return has been a blessing to them. Their family will continue to thrive, despite whatever challenges or blessings they encounter.
http://www.omnitrace.com/birth-family.html

California