In a world where the orphan crisis has heartbreaking statistics, where many international orphans, especially those with disabilities, face grim odds, one family’s story shines as a powerful beacon of hope. The Burman family is a living testament to resilience, love, and the profound impact of dedicated support.
Their home is a bustling, joyful hub for 14 children, a beautiful blend of biological and adopted members. This is their story, and the story of the organization that provides an essential anchor in their extraordinary lives.
A Family Built on Purpose
Long before their first adoption, Shelly and Bryan Burman had a blueprint for their family. As a teacher for children with special needs, Shelly always knew her calling was to build a large family, one that intentionally included children who are often overlooked. “I always knew that I would have a large family,” Shelly shares in the video, a conviction that shaped their life’s purpose.
Their biological children, Meline and Ethan, were part of the journey from the start. By the time the first adoptions began, 3-year-old Ethan charmingly remarked that new siblings “come from airports.” This foundation of empathy set the stage for a household that would blossom to 14.
The Ukraine Awakening: A Vow to the Orphan Crisis
The family’s first international adoption journey to Ukraine was a life-changing shock. Expecting to meet three 5.5-year-olds, they were instead met with children the size of infants: nonverbal, immobile, and showing the devastating effects of severe neglect. “The overall darkness of the country… really was hard,” Shelly recalls, describing the cries of children left behind and the treatable ailments left to ravage small bodies.
This experience forged an unbreakable vow. The Burmans dedicated their lives “to the orphan crisis,” whether by adopting more children or becoming fierce advocates. Their family grew, welcoming children like Evelyn, Hudson, Owen, Reagan, and Carrington, all with Down syndrome, from Ukraine and a 7-year-old with Down syndrome from Serbia. Their home became a symphony of progress, filled with high chairs, zooming wheelchairs, and the chatter of snack-time.
Evelyn’s Song: A Breakthrough Fueled by Patience
Amidst the loving chaos, one moment stands out. Evelyn, adopted from the isolating environment of the orphanage, was nonverbal. For three years, the family patiently and gently worked to connect with her, to draw her out of the silent world she had retreated into.
Then, one afternoon at the kitchen table, a miracle. Evelyn, who found solace in music, picked up a pair of headphones, handed them to Shelly, and then, for the first time, clearly signed the word “music.”
“That was… the first time she communicated to me,” Shelly says, her voice breaking with emotion. “She came out of her world into mine.”
This single breakthrough, a bridge built from patience, love, and music, symbolizes the family’s entire mission.
The Anchor: How Helping Restore Ability Makes it All Possible
A family of 14, many with complex medical and developmental needs, requires an incredible support system. For the Burmans, that anchor is Helping Restore Ability (HRA).
Breakthroughs like Evelyn’s are only possible when the family has the bandwidth to provide consistent, one-on-one attention. HRA’s services unlock that potential. For nearly three years at the time of the video, HRA partnered with the Burmans, enabling them to have an in-home caregiver, Sarah.
Sarah is more than a helper; she’s an integral part of the family. “Sarah feels 100% like our family,” Shelly beams. Sarah’s consistent presence is invaluable, especially for Evelyn, helping her build stable bonds and thrive. She handles daily routines, hones developmental skills, and provides the individualized care each child needs.
“Having just one caregiver… gives Evelyn a lot more stability,” Shelly notes. “My children’s future is really going to shine because we do have Helping Restore Ability and… they genuinely care about my kids.”
The HRA Legacy: Empowering Texas Families
The Burmans’ story perfectly illustrates the mission of Helping Restore Ability. Founded in 1977 by Sam Provence, a polio survivor and iron lung patient, HRA was born from a vision of dignity and independence for people with disabilities. Today, that legacy is stronger than ever.
HRA empowers families across Texas, operating in counties like Collin, Dallas, Denton, Ellis, and Tarrant, with a client-centered approach. Here’s how they make a difference:
- Consumer Directed Services (CDS): This is the program that gives the Burmans such flexibility. It allows clients statewide to hire and manage their own caregivers (like Sarah), while HRA expertly handles the payroll and administrative burdens.
- Agency Directed Services: In North Texas, HRA provides a suite of services including medical assistance, in-home care, and vital respite for families.
- VetAssist Program: HRA also proudly offers no-cost in-home care for veterans and their spouses, helping them navigate VA benefits and live independently.
HRA’s impact is staggering. By directing 95% of its funds directly to care, the organization has reduced client emergency room visits by 50% and hospitalizations by nearly 100% since 2019, proving that compassionate, in-home support saves lives and fosters independence.
The Burmans’ journey, from the shadows of a Ukrainian orphanage to a vibrant Texas home filled with signed songs and wheeled races, is a powerful reminder that miracles thrive on support. HRA provides that support, turning statistics into stories of children who “shine.”
If you or a loved one in Texas could benefit from in-home support, or if you are inspired to contribute to their mission, please visit Helping Restore Ability.