North Texas Family Reunites with Adopted Daughter Rescued from Haiti Amid Ongoing Violence

PLANO, Texas — A North Texas family’s emotional journey has finally reached a joyful turning point. After months of fear, uncertainty, and prayer, Kathleen and Jordan Smith of Plano are now celebrating the safe arrival of their 7-year-old adopted daughter, Esther, from war-torn Haiti.

Speaking from Tampa, Florida, where the rescue operation concluded, the Smiths shared their gratitude and relief. “We’re so grateful for all the people who coordinated this,” said Jordan Smith. “It was a huge undertaking… and we didn’t have those resources. We’re thankful God provided.”

The adoption process began in December 2023, but political unrest, gang violence, and the closure of the U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince brought everything to a halt by March 2024. Despite repeated pleas to the U.S. State Department, progress stalled. That’s when Grey Bull Rescue stepped in.

A Risky Rescue Amid Chaos:
Led by Bryan Stern, founder of Grey Bull Rescue—a private organization known for high-risk extractions—the team executed a complex mission. Flying by private jet to Cape Haitien and then via helicopter to Port-au-Prince, they navigated the capital’s gang-ridden streets and ongoing gunfire.

“We actually had gunfire,” Stern revealed. “We had to peel out to the north and east because fighting had erupted just down the street from us.”

Esther had been moved to a safe-house for protection prior to the rescue. The operation also included the extraction of two other Haitian girls.

Family Finally United:
Upon arriving safely in the U.S., Esther FaceTimed with her three American siblings, who eagerly awaited her return to North Texas. Kathleen Smith shared, “We’ll be one giant happy family. We’re so pumped.”

Esther currently resides in the U.S. on a visa as the remainder of the adoption process is finalized. The Smiths say she’s already bringing laughter and warmth to their home and plan to spend the summer bonding as a family.

Community and Government Support:
The family expressed appreciation for Texas Congressman August Pfluger, who assisted in the rescue effort. The mission was further complicated by a recent travel ban imposed by former President Donald Trump, though Stern assured it was carried out legally and safely.

Jordan Smith added a message of hope for others considering adoption: “Just because it’s hard doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do it. There’s a need everywhere. Take the step.”

Esther’s journey to North Texas was anything but ordinary—but her story now begins a new chapter, one filled with love, safety, and belonging.