An Emotional Appeal
Standing in front of the embassy representatives, Francesca spoke with a heartfelt voice about the family’s desperation and longing during the previous five years. She added, her eyes beseeching, “We need to heal, to understand.” The bureaucrats found resonance in her statements, which gave the paperwork and procedures a human touch. Sophie was not just a case at that point; she was a piece of a family’s heart that was missing.

An Emotional Appeal
Gaining Custody
It took a long time for the embassy officials to agree. They declared, “We will release Sophie into your custody.” Francesca and her grandfather felt a wave of relief. Though tempered with the somber reality of the trip ahead, it was a tremendous victory. They expressed their sincere and profound gratitude to the officials for giving them the opportunity to heal and reconcile their broken family.

Gaining Custody