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Foster Spotlight: Joann Stephen

FEB 2023 × Foster Spotlight: Diane Goulden

May 18, 2023 by Friends For Life


Joann is a long term foster currently fostering adoptable Koby.

A little over two years ago when I started my foster journey, I was concerned about how FFL could trust me and wondered whether I would succeed as a foster. How, in this crazy world, could you trust me? I also wondered how and if you’d be able to support me when I have questions or challenges fostering. 

I had very little experience with cats before I started my foster journey. ( Yes, I was one of those dogs only people)

But I knew I wanted to help.. And I knew I wanted to be worthy enough to earn the animal’s trust and love. 

So, I started fostering, quickly learnt that each cat has a different personality and I wanted to be better for them and thanks to FFL and Melissa, I started my BV journey. YOU taught me to be better. I kept fostering.. it broke my heart when they got adopted and had to leave. It made me question again, whether this is the right journey for me. 

Two years and 12 cats later, I still question whether I should be doing this, I still fear the tearful goodbyes. 

This morning, I woke up to see Koby sleeping on my husband, not a care or fear in the world and I knew this is why I do what I do. I may not change the world but at least for this one animal, I will make his world beautiful.

I really want to thank everyone in FFL for giving me and the animals the platform to have such a beautiful foster and volunteer journey. None of the most joyful parts of my life are possible without FFL – not the fostering, not the learning journey, not the amazing friends I have made (both people and animals), none of it. 


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Friends For Life Shelter

107 E 22nd Street
Houston, TX 77008

713-863-9835

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Wednesday - Monday: 11AM - 4PM
Tuesday: Closed

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