A Child is Waiting: McKanize Hopes for a family & trip to Disney

By Honey Murray for Digital First Media

Ten-year-old McKanize (pronounced "McKenzie") loves nothing better than curling up with a staff member and reading.

"We have a closetful of books," says McKanize's worker, "and throughout the day, any chance that's available, she'll pick a couple of books to read with staff."

"Kenzie, as she likes to be called, is helpful, relaxed, funny and playful," her worker describes. "She is always very caring, trying to do the right thing."

Her worker explains that, due to the trauma she has experienced, McKanize struggles with a tendency to get upset quickly and is working very well learning to de-escalate and to express emotions appropriately and calmly.

"She has gotten really good at asking to take a break before becoming upset," says her worker. "She is doing great with her coping skills!"

In addition to reading, McKanize enjoys playing board games like Sorry, Apples-to-Apples, Battleship and cards and with Legos and Barbies.

“She likes ‘girly’ things – like shopping and doing her nails and hair,” her worker shares, “as well as watching movies, coloring and playing outside.”

“I like riding my bike,” Kenzie says in her M.A.R.E. (Michigan Adoption Resource Exchange) video, “and going to the park or the pond.”

"And I love math!" she says.

“Kenzie really seems to enjoy social studies," her worker says, "and says she'd like to be a policewoman or firefighter when she's an adult."

"If I could visit one place on earth, it would be China,” Says Kenzie. “I want to learn about their culture. But,” she smiles, “I would also like to go to Disneyworld!”

Meanwhile, McKanize is hoping for adoption.

Her workers state that she would do best with a mom and dad who are experienced and have knowledge of the impact of trauma on a child and who must be fierce advocates for the services that will allow her to thrive.

“Her parents must be able to give Kenzie the attention she requires, and it would help if they have a strong support network. She would also do best as the only or youngest child in her new family – though it’s not a must,” says her worker, “just preferable.”

McKanize shares her own wishes about a forever family.

“If I was adopted, I wouldn’t have to move any more. I wouldn’t be left out.”

She smiles and adds, “I’d like a mom and a dad. And sisters and brothers. And a dog, two cats and, Oh! A hamster!”

For more information about adoption or mentoring, contact Orchards Children’s Services of Southfield at 855-694-7301, or visit www.orchards.org.