That’s how many children have known love and stability thanks to CatholicCare Hunter-Manning foster carer Megan Powell.

From respite care through to guardianship/permanent care, Megan has welcomed children from all backgrounds to help them move forward and grow.

When it comes to why she got into foster care, the answer is simple.

“I had a lot of love to give and felt that I could shower that love on vulnerable children when they need it most,” she said.

“These children have done nothing wrong; it is not their fault, they did not choose this pathway. They deserve support to become happy and healthy and go on to bigger and better things.

“It’s an honour to help them and show them love.”

For Megan, her journey as a carer has been full of ups and downs.

“Saying goodbye to the children is really difficult, and it is 100% the reason that most people say ‘I could never do it’,” she said.

“But the reality is somebody has to, and I've always maintained that I am stronger than they are so I can absorb it.

“There is no doubt that I grieve every single one of them, but I'm a big part of their life, and that outweighs it.

“I’ve helped set them up for a lifetime of happiness and given them the ability to bond and attach to someone and have a chance at a good life.

“I am very proud of that.”

Over the 15 years, Megan has experienced many highlights, but nothing was more special than being awarded guardianship over her two sons – Noah* and Riley*.

In 2016, she decided to pursue becoming their legal guardian after caring for them since they were babies.

It took three and half years, but with the support of both boys’ birth families, Megan was eventually granted guardianship and now has three children – her sons Noah and Riley and her biological daughter Lara*.

 “It was a long journey, but it was certainly worth it. I love them both so much,” she said.

Now, as an emergency carer, Megan looks after newborn babies who have no one else to turn to.

She takes care of these children until their birth families are strong enough to welcome them back home.

“I have looked after some babies who have had a very traumatic start to life, so I do believe that I've played a part in saving their life and giving them a chance,” Megan said.

At the time of writing, Megan was caring for seven-month-old William* and had not long said goodbye to six-month-old Daisy*.

“It’s an emotional rollercoaster, but you have to be open to the wonder of foster care. The ride is definitely worth it,” she said.

Early last month, Megan was recognised for her incredible work when she was nominated and became a finalist for Emergency Carer of the Year at the My Forever Family NSW Carer Recognition Awards.

She was both shocked and honoured by the nomination.

“It's very kind. It's nice to be recognised for what I've done, and will continue to do, for children in need,” she said.

“I am very passionate about child protection and will continue on this pathway for as long as I can.”

Megan encourages anyone thinking about becoming a foster carer to do their research and start slow with respite care.

“I've always believed people should start with respite care,” she explained.

“Sometimes people go into it thinking that loving a child is enough, but that is just not the case.

“It's fantastic that you do love the children, but it's not enough because there's much more involved.

“These children often come from traumatic backgrounds and will need a lot of support to settle in.

“You have to be open to being part of a team, to be open to embracing birth family, and be willing to bring someone new, not only into your life but your whole family’s lives.

“It will impact every single part of your family, so you need to make sure everyone is ready for it.

“It is life-changing and a rollercoaster of ups and downs, but it is absolutely worth it.”

Since becoming a foster carer, Megan has been with CatholicCare Social Services Hunter-Manning. She says the agency is a great support and that she has had so many wonderful caseworkers over the years.

For more information on becoming a foster carer with CatholicCare, please visit fostercare.catholiccare.org.au

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