It was an emotional welcome to the Edmonton International Airport Monday for a little girl whose family has been fighting to bring her home to Canada for years.
Five-year-old Jolie was adopted from the Democratic Republic of Congo by Kevin and Janice Maul of Boyle, Alta. in 2013.
But before her parents could bring Jolie to her new home, the Congolese government closed the door on international adoptions. That means despite legally being her father, Kevin had never met Jolie in person.
“It’s just been Skype and I’ve talked to her on the phone,” he said. “From what I’ve heard and seen, she’s just an energetic little girl, fun loving.”
READ MORE: Local families struggle to bring adopted children to Canada
His wife Janice went to the Congo for a month a few years ago to introduce herself to her daughter. But a lot has changed since then.
“When we were matched with her, she was two-and-a-half,” Kevin said. “She turned five in February.”
The Mauls were one of a number of Canadian families that pushed for Justin Trudeau to urge the Congolese government to release their children.
The pressure paid off and the borders were opened to unite families. The Mauls were among the final five Canadian couples to get the green light.
“Each week, every time a list was released, it was kind of heartbreaking to know that we weren’t on the list,” Kevin said.
“But we were hopeful the end would be coming soon and it finally came.”
Family and friends gathered at the airport Monday to welcome the newest addition to the family.
“We’re excited!” Grandma Dee Seaton said. “I don’t think any of us have slept the last few nights.”
She couldn’t wait for one thing in particular.
“Just to see that moment when Jolie meets her Daddy, when she meets her sister, just to stand back and watch.”
When Janice walked through the doors, Jolie reached for Kevin and he picked her up and held her close. He said he knew exactly what he wanted to do.
“Just give her a big hug, tell her she’s safe and home now, with us, forever.”
“It was pretty overwhelming to finally have her in my arms,” he said. “It’s been a long journey and we’re happy to continue on with our lives now.”
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