The Story of Everly & The Thankful Ones
How a holiday sleepover turned into a multi-year courtroom battle, an adoption finalization, and over $380,000 in support for children in need.
A Thanksgiving That Changed Our Lives Forever
Written by the Founders (Katie & Family)What started as a simple “cousin sleepover” the night before Thanksgiving in 2015 quickly evolved into a life-changing journey my wife, Katie, and I never imagined. At the time, our immediate family consisted of myself, Katie, Emme (3), and Easton (2).
When five-year-old Everly arrived at our house on November 25, 2015, severe concerns arose surrounding her biological mother's health and behavior. We soon learned that both of Everly's biological parents were struggling with severe drug addictions that were deeply affecting her physical safety, emotional well-being, and future.
June 21, 2016: The Courthouse Battle Begins
After six months of attempting rehabilitation efforts and facing continued heartbreak, we made the decision to legally fight for Everly's future. On June 21, 2016—Katie's 31st birthday, and just days after learning she was pregnant with our third child, Ellis—we appeared in the Fort Bend County Courthouse for our first custody hearing.
Approximately two years later, following dozens of court appearances, mandatory drug screenings, court-ordered mediation, and thousands of dollars spent out-of-pocket, we won the custody battle and were granted the legal right to move forward with full adoption.
On November 16, 2018 (National Adoption Day), nearly three years after that initial holiday sleepover, we formally adopted Everly Frances into our family as our beloved daughter and big sister to Emme, Easton, and Ellis.
Everly Today
Everly turned 16 in June 2026 and is thriving in high school. She loves spending time with her friends and is active in theatre arts and floral design. While the journey required immense sacrifice, faith, and perseverance, Everly is forever safe and cherished.
Journey & Milestone Timeline
The Cousin Sleepover
A Thanksgiving Eve that changed everything
Five-year-old Everly arrived at the Mantovani home for what was intended to be a simple holiday sleepover. Concerns quickly arose regarding her biological parents' severe substance abuse and the perilous environment she was facing.
Stepping Up in Court
Fighting for a child's right to a safe future
After 6 months of attempting rehabilitation for the parents and facing continued heartbreak, Katie and family filed for legal custody at the Fort Bend County Courthouse—on Katie's 31st birthday, while pregnant with their third child, Ellis.
Birth of The Turkey Trot
Turning personal struggle into community action
Recognizing how overwhelming the financial and emotional toll was—and knowing that thousands of families lacked the resources to fight such legal battles—the family created the Annual Pecan Grove Turkey Trot fundraiser.
National Adoption Day
Everly Frances officially becomes a forever daughter
After three years of court appearances, mandatory drug screenings, mediation, and thousands of dollars, the legal adoption was signed and finalized on National Adoption Day.
A Growing Statewide Village
Over $380,000 granted across Fort Bend & West Texas
From Fort Bend County to Midland/Odessa, The Thankful Ones has expanded its grant programs, assisting over 100 children and their heroic adoptive parents. Everly is now a thriving high school student active in theatre and floral design.
Our 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Charter
Federal Tax ID (EIN): 81-4247715
The Thankful Ones is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to provide direct financial grants and loving support to families navigating the costly, complex legal adoption process—specifically for children from foster care or affected by parental addiction.
Proud supporters and partners of Child Advocates of Fort Bend.
Grants are disbursed directly to verified attorney trust accounts and medical providers.