Sherryn and Veijo

Meet Sherryn and Veijo

Sherryn and Veijo have been married for over 20 years, and until very recently, lived life in the fast lane. Veijo was an executive chef in a fine dining establishment, working long hours, including nights and weekends, and Sherryn had a successful career in management which required extensive travel.

Sherryn and Veijo always knew that when life slowed down a little, they would open their home to foster children. Sherryn had grown up in a big family, and her mum was a foster carer, so she was used to having lots of children around.

That opportunity came around five years ago when Veijo took a 9-5 job and Sherryn got a job in sales where she was about to work from home.

They now care for a teenage boy, Liam*, who has been with them for over four years. The couple also provide respite care for his siblings.

We sat down with the foster parents and asked them some frequently asked questions.

What would you say to someone looking into foster care?

"Spend as much time as possible with other foster carers, ask lots of questions, inform yourself and be patient," Sherryn said.

Foster care has been a huge change for Sherryn and Veijo. "Transitioning from a childless executive home... we are now a family with children and routine is very important. We can no longer just go on overseas holidays on a whim!" they said.

"But that adjustment and challenge has been far outweighed by the rewards. We now do things that are just as fun, but include children."

Did you face any challenges with fostering?

There have been a lot of highlights for Sherryn and Veijo, but of course there have also been some tough times.

"We’ve had a few challenges! We’ve learnt to be resilient and it helps that we are absolutely committed and persistent," Sherryn said.

"Liam was our very first [primary] placement and we’ve had him ever since," Sherryn said.

"He came to us after having more than 10 homes. He had a lot of labels and diagnoses, but we’ve been able to work with his paediatrician very closely, and he’s gone from strength to strength!" Sherryn boasted.

"He’s a school leader, and he’s represented his school in sport, he’s in the school band – he’s incredible!" This young man is clearly destined for great things, shared Veijo.

What is your experience of fostering sibling groups and respite care?

"These children have a family and it’s important for them to remain connected and understand where they’re from... we strongly believe and support this."

Liam's sister has recently had respite care from Sherryn and Veijo.

"For his younger sister to join us this year has been a new thing and we’ve been able to watch him flourish... that has been a real highlight for us."

Sherryn and Veijo are proud of how they have been able to bring Liam's family together. They do respite care for his brother and sister, and arrange for them all to see their mother over and above the mandated contact visits.

Any advice for new foster carers?

"Practice patience, empathy and understanding – all those qualities you think you’ll need, and you absolutely do."