In this heartwarming episode of "Fortitude," meet Reid and Jessi Johnson, a devoted couple living in Sioux Falls, SD. With seven children, ranging from six months to nineteen years old, Reid and Jessi's lives are a beautiful tapestry of love and adoption.
Reid, who was adopted as a baby from Menno, South Dakota, had his own extraordinary adoption story. When he was seven, he traveled to Romania with his parents, where they welcomed a six-month-old boy into their family. This early experience of adoption sparked a deep love for the power of family and instilled a desire to give back.
Years later, as Reid entered his senior year of high school, he had a life-changing experience - he met his biological family. This newfound connection with his parents, brother, and twin half-sisters opened his heart even further, creating a strong bond that has lasted to this day.
In 2017, Reid and Jessi crossed paths and discovered an unexpected commonality - they each had three children from previous relationships. This shared experience of blended families became a natural talking point as they embarked on their journey together.
In June 2020, Reid and Jessi decided to join their families, bringing all their children together. Although their wedding plans were delayed by the unforeseen circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic, they remained resolute in their commitment to one another and were married the following summer.
Their love and dedication to family grew as Reid officially adopted Jessi's children in March 2022. And in May 2023, they joyfully welcomed their first child together, completing their beautiful blended family.
Despite the demands of juggling a busy schedule, Reid and Jessi understand the importance of carving out quality time for their loved ones. They find solace in their faith, always remaining true to the Lord who has blessed them with abundant love and unwavering support.
In this episode, join Reid and Jessi as they share their remarkable adoption journey, their challenges, and the profound love that binds their family together. Witness their commitment to volunteer work, hear tales of their travels, and discover how they find strength in their unbreakable bond with one another and their faith.
Reid FB - https://www.facebook.com/reid.johnson.9674
Reid Insta - reid24johnson
Jessi FB - https://www.facebook.com/jessi.l.haugen
Jessi Insta - jesslynnhaugen
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