Tampa woman shares joy of adoption, fostering

TAMPA (FOX 13) - Courtrooms can often be places of sadness, anger, and frustration, but that wasn’t the case inside one Hillsborough County courtroom Wednesday.

The judge's orders brought joy, laughter, and hope for bright futures to 15 children and their new families.

And for one Tampa mother, it was a dream come true, making her family complete.

Rosa Diaz said this was the only thing on her Christmas wish list - adopting her new daughter Emma Victoria Diaz.

"Yes, she's finally mine for the holidays," said Diaz.

She walked into the Tampa courtroom Wednesday morning and made it official.

Rosa started fostering kids after she learned she couldn't have children, but she didn't stop with one or two.

"I have fostered 17 kids so far," Diaz told FOX 13 News. "I love kids. They are part of my life."

Rosa says there are a few challenges, however. 

Little Emma was born four months premature and has some medical needs, but Rosa says they will get through it all.

Now that the adoption is complete, it's time for Rosa to introduce her 5-year-old son, Michael to his new little sister.

Hers is a family photo that keeps growing and Rosa couldn't be happier.

"I'm very proud of Emma. I'm just very happy to have you," said Diaz.