Father’s Day: Dad shares story of his adopted daughter’s journey through Larsen syndrome

On this Father’s Day, I find myself reflecting back to 2010 and how this dream of fatherhood became a reality. Libbie was in China and my wife, Julie, and I were still looking for airline tickets, waiting on a date from the U.S. Consulate. Three weeks later we were approaching the Civil Affairs building in Zhengzhou, and I could feel myself getting nervous and overjoyed with excitement.

This was the moment I would become a father and actually see my daughter and hold her for the first time. Dressed in an outfit that didn’t fit her, she was scooting around because she was unable to walk. I think she was trying to get away. As I went to pick her up, the tears just streamed from her little eyes. She was so pretty yet so unprepared for the journey we were about to embark on together, one that would take her to a new home, and a lot of time at Children’s Wisconsin.

Libbie has become such a wonderful little girl, and my love for her is always growing. We have such a great time together. From flying kites to riding bicycles, she brings a smile to my face every day. Thank you for making each Father’s Day so special for me.

Fred Coleman Guest Blogger

Pediatric orthopedic specialists at Children’s Wisconsin have the advanced training and expertise to provide the most qualified care to growing children and teens. Recognized as one of top programs by U.S. News & World Report, the program provides orthopedic care from spine, trauma and fracture care, to sports medicine and concussion care.