Katrina Mullen, aged 45, formally adopted Shariya Small, aged 17, on February 6th, marking the culmination of a journey that began more than two years ago when they first crossed paths during Small’s pregnancy, as reported by Today.
Reflecting on their bond, Mullen recently shared with Today, “Has it been easy? No! She pushes limits just like any other teenager. But I love her. I’m her mom — and I’m never going anywhere.”
Small became a mother while in 8th grade, delivering Serenitee, Samari, and Sarayah in 2020, as per the report. She received care at Community Hospital North in Indianapolis, where Mullen is employed as a nurse.
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Initially, Small was hesitant to share details about her life, as noted in the report. However, over time, she formed a close bond with Mullen. Mullen observed that Small, as a new mother, would often spend long periods alone by her babies’ side.
The triplets spent over five months receiving care in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at Community Hospital North, according to Today. Before their discharge, Mullen provided Small with her phone number and encouraged her to reach out if she needed assistance or support.
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The connection between Mullen and Small remained strong, leading to a visit by Mullen to Small’s home in Kokomo. It was during this visit that Mullen discovered the harsh reality of Small’s living conditions: she was sleeping on a couch, while her children shared a playpen for sleeping.
Upon witnessing this, Mullen realized the unsuitability of Small’s environment for raising her babies. She described it as unfit for nurturing children. Mullen also noticed that one of the babies, Samari, appeared unwell and was later diagnosed with failure to thrive.
Following this revelation, a case worker from the Department of Social Services contacted Mullen, informing her of Small and the children’s imminent removal from their home. Small expressed her desire to live with Mullen, prompting Mullen to accept the responsibility despite the anticipated challenges.
Over the course of 688 days, Mullen provided foster care to Small and her three children in her own home, alongside her three younger children. Small eventually graduated from an alternative high school and received guidance from Mullen on childcare.
Recently, Mullen finalized the adoption of Small, as well as her 2-year-old triplets. To secure a better future for them, Mullen initiated a GoFundMe campaign, which has garnered over $35,500 in donations. The funds will support Small’s future educational pursuits and adventures, as she aspires to pursue a career in social work.
Reflecting on her journey, Mullen expressed immense pride in being Small’s mother and admired her daughter’s resilience and determination.
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