A Gift of Hope Adoptions

This week is National Infertility Awareness Week, and as an adoption agency the majority of our adoptive parents seek us out because they have not been able to resolve their infertility biologically. This is challenging, and grieving a lost biological child is intense whether born, unborn or never conceived. The mental jump needed to adjust expectations is intense and necessary, and reality is not everyone can do it. The goal has to change to having children, rather than having biological children.

Another “Don’t Ignore” is the reality of this process. It’s not easy; it’s not designed to be. Much like infertility treatments you get poked and probed, only this time it’s about your lifestyle, your background and social history, all of which is done to prove you would be a good parent. Then, much like pregnancy, you wait…and wait…and wait. Once you are chosen or get your referral there is more anxiety, and a legal process to make that child yours forever. However, once you get past that part, it has the same outcome – you are parents. The child is legally yours and you start the next phase of life.

Believe it or not I have actually had parents tell me that looking back they are so grateful for their infertility, because if they were able to conceive biologically they would never have their beautiful child. While you may not be able to fathom being in that place now as you explore your options, it does exist. Don’t ignore any of the options you have because the one you initially think is not possible may just be your path towards your new family.

Looking for support and more information about infertility?

• http://www.resolve.org/infertility101  (Basic understanding of the disease of infertility.)
• http://www.resolve.org/national-infertility-awareness-week/about.html (About NIAW)

Looking for more information about adopting through A Gift of Hope Adoptions? Fill out our Adoptive Parents Contact Form.