Episode 7: Guadalupe’s Rose
Introduction to Rosa’s Family
Rosa Hood has been happily married to Paul Hood for 25 years. Together, they have three wonderful daughters – Anna Grace, Cecilia, and Isabella. Their path to family wasn't without challenges; after experiencing miscarriages, Rosa learned patience and how to pray for others longing to become parents. This experience deepened her gratitude for her family and how they came to be.
Rosa’s Adoption Story
Rosa shares her unique connection to adoption, being an adoptee herself. From a young age, her father instilled in her the knowledge that she was loved because she was chosen. Rosa's biological mother bravely decided against an abortion in a time when it became legal, instead opting to place Rosa with a loving family. This pivotal choice has been a significant source of gratitude for Rosa throughout her life.
Her adoption story began when her adoptive grandparents learned from a family acquaintance about a young woman seeking an adoptive family for her child. Rosa was lovingly welcomed by her adoptive parents, Alejandro and Guadalupe Ramos, who couldn’t have biological children.
Braving Life’s Challenges with Faith
Rosa’s life journey isn’t only about adoption but also about facing life’s trials with faith. When Rosa’s mom, Guadalupe, fell ill with ovarian cancer, Rosa was young; despite the difficulty, their family’s faith never wavered. Guadalupe’s commitment to showing her strength and maintaining a nurturing home for Rosa inspired Rosa throughout her life. After her mother’s passing, Rosa found healing in her faith, knowing her mother was finally at peace and had adored Rosa till her last breath.
The Strength of Two Mothers
The connection Rosa feels with both her mothers is profound. Guadalupe, her adoptive mother and a guiding force in her life, named her Rosa Maria, a symbol of love and a precious rose. Rosa acknowledges the strength and courage of her biological mother, Juanita Alvarez, and is grateful for the choice she made. Though Rosa has never met Juanita, she holds a place of honor in her heart, recognizing the strength it took to choose adoption.
Defining Family and Embracing Heritage
Family for Rosa is a blend of love and shared experiences. While she grows closer with her daughters, she is reminded of the courage of her biological mother and the nurture of her adoptive parents. Her children provide a beautiful mix of genetics and upbringing that continue to enrich her life. Rosa cherishes her heritage, her connection to her Hispanic roots, and the love that embraced her in the form of her adoptive family.
A Ministry of Connection and Giving
Today, Rosa channels her life experiences into her work as a teacher and in ministry. Her story and faith fuel her dedication to sharing the love of God and the sanctity of life. Teaching Spanish at a Catholic school, she gently infuses pro-life values into her lessons, contributing to the world by nurturing young minds.
