A family's adoption day turns into a pep rally
- Gateway Longview
- Jun 6, 2025
- 2 min read
A Buffalo Jills alum and her family adopted two children ... and her sisterhood made sure to cheer them on when it happened.
Author: Alissa Clausell
Published: 7:44 PM EDT June 5, 2025
Updated: 7:44 PM EDT June 5, 2025
BUFFALO, N.Y. — What began as a foster placement for two young boys became something much more today — the formation of a forever family.
Four-year-old Zy and 3-year-old Niko were officially adopted by Lisa and Patrick O’Connor, surrounded by loved ones, tears, and even pom-poms — courtesy
of Lisa’s fellow Buffalo Jills alumni.
Lisa, a former Jills cheerleader of seven years, said the moment was “unbelievable” and deeply emotional.
“Having all these people we’ve known for years, and the Buffalo Jills coming out supporting us — that’s like my sisterhood,” she said.
The O’Connors became foster parents in 2019 with support from Gateway Longview, a local foster care and adoption agency.
“It was one of those things — I woke up one day and just kept seeing ads that foster parents were needed,” Lisa said. “I felt like they were speaking to me.”
That calling led Zy and Niko into their home in 2022. Three years later, the bond is unshakable.
“It means everything,” Lisa said. “It’s been three years in the making. We’ve had a lot of ups and downs, and we’re just so excited to have these two officially part of our family.”
The O’Connors’ older, biological children, Owen and Gianna, were just as thrilled to welcome their new brothers.
“We just knew they were the perfect children to adopt,” Owen said. “Feeling really emotional that we get to see these little cutie pies,”
And the fun doesn't end today. The family is heading to Disney World to continue the celebrations.
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