Foster Child Survives Devastating Fire and Finds Forever Family After 7-Year Journey

When Deyvion was just a baby, his life was nearly taken from him in a tragic apartment fire. Left in his bassinet as flames swept through the home, he was rescued by firefighters but suffered severe burns across his face and body. His survival alone was considered a miracle—but what followed was an even more extraordinary journey.

Born in Missouri, Deyvion spent the first years of his life fighting for survival in a specialized burns unit—without a family by his side. Though he endured painful treatments and long recoveries, he never gave up.

It wasn’t until he was 5 years old that he finally found a home with someone who would change his life forever—Beth Plunkett, a single mother raising two children of her own.

“I thought he was a beautiful little boy, and I fell in love with him very quickly,” Beth told WGN9 News.

Beth knew from the beginning that their connection was something special. While many saw her as a hero for opening her heart and home to Deyvion, she felt the blessing went both ways.

“Everyone says, ‘Oh, he’s so lucky to have you,’ but I honestly feel just as lucky to have him,” she said.

After 2,545 days in the foster system, without a permanent family to call his own, Deyvion was officially adopted by Beth—a moment filled with emotion and joy.

Beth’s biggest wish? That her son continues to grow into the amazing person he’s already shown he can be.

“I just want him to be happy. I want him to feel loved, to dream big and achieve whatever he sets his mind to. And I know he will. God definitely has something incredible planned for him.”

But Beth isn’t the only one who holds a special place in her heart for Deyvion. The very firefighters who pulled him from the blaze have never forgotten that fateful night—and they made sure to celebrate his adoption in a big way.

Deputy Chief Eric Smith and his team from South Metro Fire Department in Raymore surprised Deyvion and Beth with a custom firefighter jacket and hat on adoption day. Then they did something unforgettable: they drove the mother and son to the courthouse in a fire truck to make the adoption official.

“He’s an extraordinary kid,” said Deputy Chief Smith. “We don’t always understand why certain things happen, but now we do. He’s here for a reason.”

For a child who began life facing unimaginable pain, Deyvion’s story is now filled with love, hope, and belonging. He has a family, a community, and a fire crew who will always have his back.

This brave little boy is an inspiration to everyone who hears his story—and a reminder of the power of resilience and love.

💙 Let’s show Deyvion even more support—share his story and spread the light he brings to the world.