ST. GEORGE — In February the Fanene family heard about a little boy with medical needs on the island of Tonga in need of a forever family. Unprepared but willing, they immedicately jumped on board.
Just a few weeks after hearing about this little angel, and with only an hour notice, John (Dad) took 6 flights to reach the child and 3 more to go before the US embassy in Fiji to request a medical visa to bring him to the US for immediate medical care on his leg. The visa was denied, twice. The family scrambled for a plan B.
Planning to be apart only 3 days, they are now going on 6 weeks with months ahead and mountains to climb for an international adoption. The trial has taken a physical and emotional toll on all four of them, affecting the family business and touching many areas of their life. However, spirits are high with the incredible support they’ve received at home and in the islands.
The little boy is worth the fight.
A dinner and silent auction will be held Wednesday from 6-8:30 p.m. at the Cottontown Village Dance Hall, 25 N. 300 West, Washington City, to help raise money for this unexpected journey. Thank you for joining us and we look forward to a memorable evening.
If anyone would like to donate products/services for the silent auction, apply here.
Additional items to send to the island will be collected at the event. Items needed include:
- School supplies.
- Art supplies.
- Underwear.
- Clothing.
- Books.
- Puzzles.
- Backpacks.
- Healthy nonperishable food items.
- Hygiene products.