Finding a Family is a 2011 made-for-television movie, based on a true story. It follows the life of Alex Chivescu (played by Jared Abrahamson) and his mother Ileana (played by Kim Delaney) as they struggle through various obstacles in life.
As a child, Alex is incredibly proud of his mother and her achievements. He idolizes her and wants to make her proud by attending Harvard. However, as he grows up, things begin to unravel. Ileana is diagnosed with manic depression and refuses to take her medication. This causes her to have severe episodes that result in her being hospitalized and Alex being taken into foster care.
Despite the setbacks, Alex is determined to make something of his life and to keep his promise to his mother to attend Harvard. He works hard, studies every spare moment, and manages to get into a prestigious private school. However, Ileana's illness keeps getting in the way. She disappears for days at a time, leaving Alex to fend for himself, and he is repeatedly forced to go back into foster care.
Fed up with the system, Alex decides to take matters into his own hands. At age 16, he goes to court and gets legal emancipation, giving him the freedom to make his own decisions and take care of his mother. He gets a job at a fast-food restaurant to support them and continues to work hard in school.
Eventually, Alex's determination pays off. He graduates from high school with honors and is accepted into Harvard. The movie ends with Alex and Ileana attending his graduation, proud of everything he has achieved despite the many challenges they faced.
Overall, Finding a Family is an inspiring story of perseverance in the face of adversity, love, and family. It is a heartwarming film that showcases the power of determination and the importance of never giving up on your dreams.