Several years ago, Myke Rousell started dating Sarah, and eventually dating turned to marriage. In the midst of their romance, the had couple quickly adjusted to life as a blended family with two children each from previous relationships.
Myke instantly hit it of with Sarah’s daughter, Camryn. As her step-dad, he never missed a game, recital, or big moment in the child’s life.
“I came into Camryn’s life when she was 5,” said the Temple, Texas father. “We were thick as thieves soon after me and her mom started dating. We just had so much in common.”
When she was 7, Camryn asked Myke if she could start using his last name as her own. He said yes, and she uses “Rousell” pretty much everywhere. The one exception is school, where they need to use her legal last name. Sarah agreed that Myke should start the process of officially adopting Camryn. It took three years, but in June 2021 the family was ready to share the good news with Camryn, who was 10 by then. Where better to share the news than at school?
Myke and Sarah showed up at Camryn’s school carrying signs announcing that she is officially a Rousell. When Camryn saw the signs as she walked down the hall, her face was the picture of excitement and joy. As soon as Myke lifted her into his arms, she broke down in happy tears – and she wasn’t the only one!
“Seeing Camryn’s face… She broke down, and in turn, I broke down,” Myke said.
“Camryn’s adoption, for me, was a promise,” Myke explained. “I promised that I would always be there for her, I would love her unconditionally, and that I just wasn’t in her life by accident.”
Myke also shared some thoughtful words for his fellow step-parents.
“I understand what it feels like to go to baseball games, and to go to soccer games, and feel like a third wheel a lot of times,” he said. “But you show up anyway. I just want you to know that you are appreciated, you are valued, and you are making a difference in these kids’ lives. Our babies cannot have enough people in their corner.”
Very true, Myke. There’s more than one way to find your family. Congratulations to Camryn on officially being a Rousell for several years now!
Watch the moment Camryn learns the exciting news in the video below, and be sure to share.
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