In the last 20 years there has been a steady, sizable increase in the number of single-parent adoptions. The desire to nurture and to share life as a family is a strong universal need that is felt by a large number of people and one that is not exclusive to married people or couples. We spent One Minute with JoEllen to find out more about Single Parent Adoptions.
Was adopting easier or harder than you imagined?
A friend of mine (who adopted) told me once that I’ll become the mom to the exact child I should be the mom to… and she was right. Adoption is a complicated and beautiful process. It was incredibly painful at one point – a failed match after many months of communication – but the minute I got the call about Leila’s birth. It was it. I was her mom. Last year at this time, was so different. Now, I’m a mom to the most amazing, smiley, sweet, funny daughter.
What advice would you give another single parent interested in adopting with our agency?
Ask questions, be patient and thoughtful – approach this process with an open heart. I know it sounds corny, but I tried my best to live by these principles. While adopting my daughter was the best day in my life – it was probably her birth mom’s worst and may be complicated for my daughter. Just know that and be sensitive to that dynamic.
Did you attempt to work with any agencies prior to Adoption Choices of Texas?
If so, what happened? If not, how did you find Adoption Choices of Texas?
I worked with an adoption consultant who recommended Adoption Choices of Texas. I was “active” in 3-5 agencies.
What advice could you give birth parents when they are looking at single parents for a possible match?
Trust your instincts, ask questions, and if you’re open to placing your child with a single parent know that they will be loved.
Thank you JoEllen for sharing your experience and adoption journey with us!
