A Family Meant to Be: The Allen Family’s Journey to Teegan
For Jessica and Beau Allen, the dream of becoming parents always existed, even if the path to get there was far from simple. Although the journey to have a family was fraught with so many obstacles, the Allens always knew that if they couldn’t have children biologically, they would adopt.
That hope turned into reality when they connected with the Heart Gallery of Tampa, a nonprofit that shines a light on children in foster care who are still waiting for their forever families. The Heart Gallery specializes in advocating for children who are often overlooked: teenagers, large sibling groups and children with special needs.
Through striking photography and storytelling, the organization introduces the community to these children, reminding everyone that they are not just numbers in a system, but vibrant individuals deserving of love and belonging.
For the Allens, the Heart Gallery became more than a resource. It became the bridge that led them to their daughter.
“From day one of our adventure to find our child, they were there to guide, help, coach and cheer us on,” Jessica remembers. “The process can be so long and daunting, but having them on our side not only sped things up, it made everything easier. They were there through our tears when our patience was wearing thin, through our laughter when we were so elated we couldn’t contain it, and through seeing our dream become a reality the day our little girl became ours.”
That little girl is Teegan, a lively ten-year-old who quickly stole their hearts.
“She has such a great personality,” Beau shares with a smile. “She’s funny, she’s smart, she’s a wonderful dancer and she completely changed our lives from the moment we met her.” From the very beginning, it felt like Teegan had always been part of their family. While every transition has its ups and downs, the bond between them was undeniable. “From day one, she came in and it was like she had been in our lives forever,” Beau says.
For many who consider adoption, the first thought often goes to infants. But for Jessica and Beau, the decision to welcome an older child felt natural.
“Age shouldn’t come into it,” Beau explains. “These are kids who haven’t gotten a fair chance at life. They haven’t had all the experiences that most children do. We didn’t want to turn our backs on someone who deserves that. They all do.”
The Allen family’s story is one of resilience, hope and the power of community. They know their journey would have looked very different without the unwavering support of the Heart Gallery team. “Teegan is our world, and we are so grateful for the chance to be her parents,” the Allens say.
Their story is a powerful reminder that adoption is not only about creating families. It is about rewriting stories, restoring hope and showing children that love truly can last forever.
READ MORE Inspiring Stories about Family:
- Give the Gift of Home this Holiday Season by Becoming a Foster Parent
- Farron’s Unexpected Blessing: Daytime Co-host Farron Hipp welcomes her first child through adoption
*Presented by the Heart Gallery of Tampa | Originally published in the November 2025 issue of Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine.