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Photographed by Michael O'Brien
Van, Tatum and Crista Cope (left to right) are playing with the pieces of a Jenga game. As the big sister, Crista often gives advice to her younger siblings.
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Photographed by Michael O'Brien
Van sets up a domino effect, while Tatum observes.
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Photographed by Michael O'Brien
"I wondered if I'd ever feel joy again," says author Pam Cope (left), at home in Coppell, Texas, with Crista, Randy, Tatum, Van, and their dog, Truman.
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Photographed by Michael O'Brien
Pam Cope with son Van walking in Duck Pond Park in Coppell, Texas.
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Photographed by Michael O'Brien
The Copes: Crista, Pam, Van, Randy and Tatum (left to right) relax in their Texas home.
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Photographed by Michael O'Brien
Van enjoys some "free time," approved by mom.
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Photographed by Michael O'Brien
"Van's such a momma's boy, so affectionate," Pam says.
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Photographed by Michael O'Brien
Van plays Jenga with his mom.
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Photographed by Michael O'Brien
A mother and son moment
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Photographed by Michael O'Brien
Van enjoys spending time with his dad.
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Photographed by Michael O'Brien
Van and Randy at Duck Pond Park
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Photographed by Michael O'Brien
Van and his mom walking by the lake at Duck Pond Park.
Your story was touching and it gave me a better sense of understanding of how my parents felt when they adopted me. They did not go through the same process, I was actually flown from Korea to the States, but I never realized how happy and excited they had to have been. We do celebrate my arrival every year but your story made me step back and put it in more perspective. I am currently serving in Iraq- for the country that gave me opportunity, and the parents who love me. Thank you.
Your story was touching and it gave me a better sense of understanding of how my parents felt when they adopted me. They did not go through the same process, I was actually flown from Korea to the States, but I never realized how happy and excited they had to have been. We do celebrate my arrival every year but your story made me step back and put it in more perspective. I am currently serving in Iraq- for the country that gave me opportunity, and the parents who love me. Thank you.
Your story was touching and it gave me a better sense of understanding of how my parents felt when they adopted me. They did not go through the same process, I was actually flown from Korea to the States, but I never realized how happy and excited they had to have been. We do celebrate my arrival every year but your story made me step back and put it in more perspective. I am currently serving in Iraq- for the country that gave me opportunity, and the parents who love me. Thank you.
My 21 year old grandson died in a traffic accident on July 1 2005. I cried everyday for 6 months, my friends would avoid me but one friend suggested I get involved helping others, I'm now Chairman of our County Alcohol and Drug Commission helping people in addiction every day.
This story was very inspirational. How can I support the Touch a Life Foundation? I will like to give of my personal time and financial resources.
It is so nice to see the Cope family happy again. This looks like you did years ago. Your life and story are very touching. God Bless you all.
I know this family personally and cannot say enough about the love and compassion they share.... not only with each other, but everyone they meet. I'm sure the roots of the VanDorn's and the Cope's are strong and healthy since they've branched out to reach the entire world. God bless them all.