Michael and Nick never imagined parenthood as part of their journey – but everything changed with one unexpected phone call. When they found out their two-week-old niece Armina needed someone to care for her, the couple didn’t hesitate. They immediately altered their lives to ensure that she was safe and well loved, including new jobs that would allow them to work remotely and purchasing a safer car. Friends and family came together to provide diapers, formula and all the newborn necessities.
Although Armina was only with them briefly before being reunited with her birth parents, the experience of kinship care inspired Michael and Nick to continue fostering, and they temporarily provided care for an older child with severe medical needs.
In November 2022, Armina returned to their home. Pressley Ridge stepped in immediately, guiding Michael and Nick through an emergency recertification and completing all necessary paperwork within a single day. The staff constantly checked on the family, providing clothes and necessities for Armina.
Michael described Pressley Ridge as more than just a support system. “Pressley Ridge is truly a family. You constantly have someone, a point person, an advocate to make sure you have what you need and help get information.”
Once the path was clear for Michael and Nick to adopt Armina, Pressley Ridge remained a steadfast partner, helping the couple navigate the maze of paperwork and ensuring they had the resources to support Armina’s unique needs.
Michael and Nick also leaned on a network of fellow Pressley Ridge foster parents, whose shared experiences helped them manage both the emotional challenges and the “red tape” of kinship care and adoption.
Finally, on September 26, 2025, Michael, Nick and Armina officially became a family.
Pressley Ridge Treatment Coordinator Liz Stewart enjoyed helping the family through kinship care and celebrating their adoption. “Michael and Nick were organized and had a positive outlook, not only for Armina’s case, but as a family. They were always looking for ways to improve Armina’s development. They taught her about different types of breathing as a regulation tool and came up with their own regulation activities.”
Among the many tools they’ve developed to support Armina’s emotional growth is a cherished ritual they call the ‘burger hug’ – a family group hug that brings comfort and connection.
Now officially a family, Michael, Nick, and Armina continue to build a life rooted in love, resilience and community. Their journey – from an unexpected phone call to a joyful adoption – reflects the power of kinship, the strength of chosen family and the unwavering support of organizations like Pressley Ridge. With every ‘burger hug,’ they celebrate not only their bond but the village that helped make it possible.