Bob: Not the "Property of Texas"

Bob’s story is one of resilience and regaining control. Bob first came to America from Ukraine at the age of 5. He was adopted into a family who subjected him to horrible treatment, until finally at the age of 12 he entered the foster care system. Bob went from placement to placement until he was adopted by his third placement. However, after being adopted, the relationship between Bob and his adoptive family crumbled. For many years, Bob had hardly any sense of control over his own life. He was told where to go, how to act, and who he was as a person. He even found out that his birthday had been changed by his first adoptive family. His whole identity had been determined by the foster care system and those involved in it.

As an adult, Bob is courageously embracing his past trauma and taking back the control of his life that the system took from him. He wants his story of overcoming adversity to inspire others who may be facing similar circumstances. He wants foster youth to know that they are not the “Property of Texas,” but are instead worthy, intelligent, brave individuals capable of succeeding and deserving of love. He wants youth in the foster care system and those who have aged out to know that it’s never too late to take control of your story.

If you are a former foster child who aged out of the system and want to share your story, email us at agedoutproject@gmail.com! You deserve to be heard.

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Credits:

·      Interviewee: Bob

·      Interviewers: Lauren Ferrie and Brooke Sutter

·      Editor: Soheil Abdmousavi

·      Editing Team: Alexis Young, Lauren Ferrie, Brooke Sutter

·      Music Credit:

o   Nostalgia by Tobu https://soundcloud.com/7obu

o   Music Promoted by Audio Library https://youtu.be/03Aky9bhOMU

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of SMU or the W.W. Caruth, Jr. Foundation.