Parenthood
Woman reads about baby surrendered at fire station and knows in her heart it’s her son
She knew right away.
Sasha Alonzo
02.06.24

Imagine a story that begins with a tiny, three-pound baby left at a fire station, and ends with a family filled with love and joy.

This is the story of Sam, a baby boy who was surrendered under Kentucky’s Safe Haven Law at a Louisville fire station.

His journey from being left in the caring hands of firefighters to finding a forever home is nothing short of miraculous.

Chris and Brittany Tyler, a couple who had faced their own struggles with conceiving, were looking into foster care when they heard about Sam.

The moment they learned of his situation, they felt a strong, almost instant connection and knew they wanted to bring him into their family.

WAVE News - YouTube
Source:
WAVE News - YouTube

Sam’s story began under challenging circumstances.

When he was discovered by the firefighters, he was just a tiny infant, weighing about three pounds.

His mother, in a profound act of love and desperation, left a heartfelt note explaining her decision to surrender her baby.

She hoped for a better life for him, a life she felt she couldn’t provide.

Her decision to use the Safe Haven Law, which allows parents to legally and anonymously give up their babies, was a testament to her love and hope for Sam’s future.

WAVE News - YouTube
Source:
WAVE News - YouTube

For Chris and Brittany, the decision to foster and eventually adopt wasn’t new.

They had already opened their hearts and home to 15 foster children, providing a nurturing environment for those in need.

They had also adopted two of those children, Judah and Calvin, who were now integral parts of their family.

When they heard about the Safe Haven baby, they saw it as an opportunity to extend their love and care to another child who needed a family.

WAVE News - YouTube
Source:
WAVE News - YouTube

Brittany vividly remembers the moment she read about Sam.

She felt a deep, personal connection and hoped that they would be chosen to be his foster parents.

“So I read an article that had been posted online about him, and I knew that Safe Haven babies went to foster homes,” she told Good Morning America.

“And so I prayed and hoped that we would be the home chosen.”

Her words reflected a sincere wish to provide Sam with the love and stability he deserved.

WAVE News - YouTube
Source:
WAVE News - YouTube

The call they received, informing them that Sam would be joining their family, was a moment of pure joy and affirmation.

Chris, recalling that moment to WAVE News, said, “They told us about him, and it took no thought.

‘Yes, we’ll absolutely take him.'”

Their immediate and enthusiastic response highlighted their readiness and eagerness to welcome Sam into their lives.

WAVE News - YouTube
Source:
WAVE News - YouTube

Sam’s journey through the foster care system lasted 581 days, but for him, it was a journey with a happy ending.

He was officially adopted by the Tylers, a moment they had eagerly anticipated.

To celebrate this new chapter in their lives, they took Sam to Build-A-Bear, where they created a firefighter bear in honor of the brave first responders who had cared for him in his earliest days.

This gesture was a beautiful tribute to the people who had played a crucial role in Sam’s life.

WAVE News - YouTube
Source:
WAVE News - YouTube

Brittany emphasized the importance of the stability they provided for Sam during his time in foster care.

“He was with us in one home the entire time,” she said.

“So he didn’t bounce around in the system. It just took a while to get the paperwork done.”

This consistency was vital for Sam’s development and well-being, ensuring that he grew up in a loving and stable environment.

WAVE News - YouTube
Source:
WAVE News - YouTube

Today, Sam is a curious and lively toddler, always eager to learn about the world around him.

His favorite question, “What’s that?” reflects his inquisitive nature.

Chris and Brittany are prepared to share with him the story of his birth mother when he’s older, acknowledging her courage and selflessness.

“She’s a role model, she’s a hero,” Chris said, planning to use her story to teach Sam about character and resilience as he grows up.

WAVE News - YouTube
Source:
WAVE News - YouTube

The Tylers’ journey with Sam is a beautiful example of love, patience, and dedication.

They are thrilled to watch him grow into a healthy, happy boy, cherishing every moment as his parents.

Their story, along with the role of the fire department in ensuring the safety and well-being of surrendered babies, is a testament to the power of compassion and community in changing lives.

Sam’s story, from a fire station to a loving home, is a beacon of hope and a reminder of the good in the world.

To learn more about this story watch the video below.

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