The Murphy Family Text and photos © 1995 Michael A. Schwarz last updated September 15, 1995

Things are often a bit hectic at the suburban Atlanta home of John and Jeanette Murphy. With 19 children, life can seem like an endless parade of laundry, meals, homework and doctor visits. In addition to their four biological children, John and Jeanette have 15 adopted children, 13 with Down Syndrome. The Murphy family began growing in 1982 when 5-year-old Shannon was adopted. The parents' background working with children and adults with disabilities had convinced them that the best environment for children with Down Synrdome was in a loving family, so they began adopting. At first the Murphys sought out children to adopt, but eventually they became sought after by parents and agencies looking for adoptive homes for children with Down Syndrome.

From top: John Murphy has a quiet moment with son Cody. Jeanette Murphy comforts son Jimmy as he waits to have his hair cut. Four children line up to brush their teeth before heading off to school. Six of the Murphy children cool off in the family swimming pool on a hot day. The latest additions to the Murphy family are Nathan and Emily. John and Jeannette Murphy traveled to Virginia to adopt Emily, an 11 month-old child with Down Syndrome and a heart defect. Nathan was given up for adoption to the Murphy family immediately after being born. Nathan also has Down Syndrome.