It’s been a journey filled with hope, heartache, and incredible joy. For Sammie and Gabe Galvan of White House, every step has led to the moment they finally brought their adopted baby girl, Alora, home.

Alora was born on January 2, arriving two days earlier than expected.

“We got a text that her birth mom was in labor, and just hours later, we received a photo of Alora,” Sammie recalls. “Labor went fast, and the next morning we hit the road for Indiana.

”At the hospital, the Galvans met with Alora’s birth mom and extended family, sharing quiet moments filled with emotion.

“When her birth family left the hospital room, I broke down,” Sammie says through tears.“It was so heartbreaking for them … but at the same time, it was the most exciting moment of our lives. Adoption is filled with these mixed emotions that you can’t really prepare for.”

Sammie and Gabe stayed in Indiana for about a week, waiting for interstate paperwork to be processed. During that time, they bonded with Alora and began their new life together, even if that meant starting out at an Airbnb.

“We brought her ‘home’ to the Airbnb on January 4 and just soaked in that first week as a family,” Sammie says. “Finally, on January 10th, we made the drive back to Tennessee, trying to beat the snow so we could start our life at home.”

Their homecoming was met with love and support from friends and neighbors.

“We had a meal train set up, and people we didn’t even know very well brought us food,” Sammie says. “We’ve felt so loved by our community.”

Part of that support came last year through a community auction the Galvans organized to help cover adoption expenses.

“We thought maybe we’d raise a couple thousand dollars, but people showed up in ways we never expected,” says Sammie. “We raised over $7,000. Friends donated handmade items, services like babysitting, and even a stay at a beachfront condo. It was incredible.”

Sammie has been touched by how many people have followed their adoption story.

“I hear from people on Facebook who say how much they’ve loved learning about adoption through our experience,” she says. “Some have even asked for advice because they’re thinking about adopting themselves. It’s been so special to share this with others.”

Alora’s adoption has opened Sammie’s eyes to parts of the process she hadn’t considered before: “The biggest eye-opener was seeing how emotional it is for everyone involved. There’s so much excitement, but also sadness, for the birth family saying goodbye. You feel that deeply as an adoptive parent, too.”

The Galvans keep in touch with Alora’s birth mom, offering updates and photos when she wants them.

“Every adoption is different, and every birth mom has different needs,” Sammie explains.“We always check in first to see if she wants pictures before sending them. We want to be respectful of where she is emotionally.”

Now, six months into parenthood, Sammie and Gabe are soaking up every moment and happily report that Alora is thriving.

“We’re so thankful,” Sammie says. “We can’t believe we get to do life with her. It’s truly a dream come true.”

And the Galvans’ story isn’t over. They hope to adopt again when the time is right.

“If I could, I’d start the process again right now,” Sammie laughs. “But we’re enjoying this season with Alora. When we’re ready, we’ll definitely apply for more grants and continue sharing our journey. We want to grow our family again one day.”

In the meantime, Sammie hopes their experience inspires others.

“Adoption can be hard, but it’s also beautiful,” she says. “We’re so grateful for Alora, for her birth family’s trust, and for the amazing community that’s surrounded us with love."

Check out our earlier coverage on the Galvan Family's adoption journey here.