Mark & Rebekah Shideler

We are so excited about the opportunity to adopt the biological sibling of our previously adopted daughter!

We longed to have children for years, but were unable to because of infertility. Through that struggle, God called us to the amazing gospel opportunity of adoption (not as a last resort, but as a first choice).

In 2024, God granted us our desire to be parents by allowing us to adopt our daughter Ashlynn Reese at her birth. Ashlynn turned 18 months old in December and has brought us so much joy! Adoption and parenting have proven to be absolutely wonderful and fulfilling callings.

We have always wanted to have at least two children. Before and after Ashlynn was born, we have been able to have a close relationship with her birth mother. After adopting Ashlynn, we began praying that if Ashlynn’s birth mom became pregnant again that God would allow us to adopt a second child from her as well.

In November of 2025, God answered that prayer! Ashlynn’s birth mother let us know that she was pregnant, and she asked us if we would adopt the second baby. We excitedly said yes! The baby is due in May of 2026.

Being able to adopt a biological sibling is wonderful for us because we get to walk through the birth/adoption process with a mother, attorney, consultant, and hospital that we already know and trust. But it is also wonderful for the children. Growing up with a biological sibling can help tremendously with some of the identity struggles adopted children often face during development.

We are seeking to raise $40,000 to help us with legal/medical fees and home study fees that we have already had to start paying. These funds will also help us with travel costs for when the baby is born and we have to live out of state for at least 2-3 weeks (or more).

We were amazed by the overwhelming generosity of friends and family who made it possible for us to adopt Ashlynn. Although asking for money again is not easy, we know that God will provide.

Thank you so much for praying for us and financially supporting us on round two of our exciting adoption journey!