Annette Holmes to many is known as `Nanny Nette’ but in essence she is an angel.
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Annette has been a foster mum to 73 children, some straight from the maternity ward and still withdrawing from the drugs passed onto them by their birth mothers.
Earlier this week we brought you Annette’s story and readers reacted positively to the wonderfully crafted story from journalist Lisa Wachsmuth and accompanying photography from Adam McLean.
You can still find the story on our website if you missed it at illawarramercury.com.au.
In the article Annette told her personal story and backed a Fostering NSW campaign highlighting the urgent need for more families to help vulnerable children by becoming emergency, respite or restoration carers. Or by considering open adoption from care.
Unable to have children of her own and after the passing of her husband, Annette decided to become a foster parent.
That was 23 years ago.
Images of the 73 children she has since tenderly and lovingly cared for now line the wall of her home.
Annette’s stories of her time as a foster carer are equal parts inspiring and heart-breaking.
“I had two boys who’d been shifted so many times they didn’t even have a schoolbag or lunch box – I went out that day and bought them some, and that night I found them sleeping with their lunch boxes under their pillows – they didn’t want anyone taking them back,” she said.
That’s hard for any parent to read.
The love and care Annette has for each of them were evident in her words.
“I’ll never forget any of them, and I hope that if they don’t remember me, they’ll remember the place where they were loved and safe,” she said.
Powerful. Inspiring. Unforgettable.
We love bringing these sorts of stories to you.
It is people like Annette who are truly the heartbeat of our community.
These volunteers go above and beyond to help someone in our community in dire need for nothing more than a hug or a smile.
Annette Holmes you are indeed an angel.
If you think you could help too, please consider becoming a foster carer.
You can find out more information via the Fostering NSW website www.fosteringnsw.com.au or by calling 1800 236 783.
