Laura Ruffino met Elizabeth Diamond in fifth grade, and they remained best friends since that time. “No matter where we were, we always had fun,” Laura told WKBW.
In 2014, Elizabeth was diagnosed with stage 4 brain cancer and soon the single mother of four asked her best friend if she would adopt her children, should anything happen to her.
Laura instantly said yes. “As she started to weaken, you can imagine the fears that I had for the girls and being without her,” Laura revealed.
In April, the single mother passed away and a short time later, Laura and her husband welcomed the four young girls into their home.
Obviously the adoption was a huge financial adjustment for the family, especially for Elizabeth, who has dedicated herself to helping the community through her non-profit Buffalo Wellness Center. Thankfully, people in her community heard about their amazing adoption story and helped them raise $50,000 to date.
“What shocks me is [Elizabeth] is continuing her work someplace else,” Laura said.
“Ten years ago, I didn’t think this would be my life,” Laura’s husband told WKBW. “But if something gets thrown at you, just accept the challenge and do the best you can.”
