Andrea is from the northeastern corner of Pennsylvania as a result of a church outreach. She finds herself quite busy each week with many hours spent on the road to take her foster children to and from appointments.
Andrea never imagined where all God would lead her when she committed her life to Him over 21 years ago. The journey has not always been easy, but she has found strength in her Creator. As a young girl, she entertained the idea of becoming a registered nurse, but God called her to the mission field of Nicaragua for 2 years instead.
The desire to help others remained, however, and when she returned from Nicaragua, she started nursing school with the plan to use her nursing degree in the foreign mission field. Little did she know that God had a different plan for her life. As she entered the last semester of nursing school, she entered a relationship with a young man, who became her husband 8 months later.
But her story doesn’t end here. Within the first year of being married, Andrea and her husband felt called to move from Lancaster County, PA to Wayne County, PA. As they settled into a new area with a new church and new friends, they began a walk of infertility.
After two pregnancy losses, Andrea and her husband felt the call of God to open their home to other children by becoming foster parents. This was a walk unlike any other. Many tears were shed as they spent hours working with children who had experienced unknown trauma.
After agreeing to welcome a 3rd foster child into their home, they found themselves walking through the pain of yet another pregnancy loss. Andrea and her husband wrestled with thoughts of “Why?” but God had a bigger plan than either of them could ever imagine. In the fall of 2023, Andrea learned she was expecting yet again. The thought of another loss was terrifying, and she wondered what God’s plan was in it all. But in the spring of 2024, Andrea and her husband Linford welcomed a rainbow baby into their home.
This last year has truly been a journey, but one thing that is quite clear is the presence of God and His strength in the trying moments. They have recently seen God’s hand as they have made a few positive steps forward with their foster children’s situation. Their prayer is that one day these three foster children will legally be part of their family.
Andrea and Linford enjoy just spending time together as a family, whether that is by taking walks, going to a local park, or even going away for the day. Making memories is what is important to them.
Some of Andrea’s hobbies include sewing, cooking, and this year she also realized how much she enjoys canning and preserving things for her family. Sewing is not only a hobby for Andrea; you can often find her at her sewing machine when she is stressed and just needs some time to herself.
Crystal Weaver
Good to see you Andrea & Linford! Your testimony is inspiring to me. Thank you for sharing.