Teens Wanted

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Patience is essential. Roland and Maribel Vasquez of Worcester County, Mass., already had two biological children when they decided to open their home to Michael, 17. Over a period of 10 months, the couple and the boy struggled to get to know and accept one another. Michael wondered if perhaps it was too late to adapt to family life. And turning 18, on Feb. 13, was a big event for him. It was not only his first birthday with his adoptive family but also the first time that his birthday was celebrated with gifts and a cake. For his new parents, the rewards have also been great. "You're not just helping someone else," says Maribel. "You're making a decision to grow as a family."