Unique Open Adoption

We have a very unique and special situation. My husband and I adopted my youngest sister's baby. She decided early in her pregnancy that she was too young, and felt that she would not be able to provide for her baby like she would like to. When my parents told us that she wanted to give the baby up for adoption, we immediately said we would adopt him! We have one 6 year old biological child, and had been talking about having another baby soon.

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Unknowing of our offer, she asked my parents did they think we might be interested in adopting the baby? And so the plans were set. We are very close, even though there is a 13 year age gap between us. We talked about our feelings and the future and how we would handle situations that come up in the future. I went with her to her Dr appointments and my husband, daughter and I rushed to the hospital when she went into labor to be there for the delivery! It was beautiful. She asked me if she could breast feed him at the hospital--this was her way to help contribute to his healthy start. I knew it would make it hard for her to part with him, but she showed the most courage and strength I have ever seen someone have! The day we brought him home was REALLY emotional. I felt as thought I was stealing this perfect child...but she told us..."he is a gift" And she is right! We have an open adoption. She and the birthfather visit 3 or 4 times a month. In fact we all spent Christmas together, including his biological grandmother (birthfather's mother). We have also met his biological greatgrandmother. It is like a really neat extended family. I cannot predict the future, but so far this has been wonderful. I think the key to a succesful open adoption is keeping in mind what is the BEST for the child. To all birthmothers, I commend you for having the courage to choose a life for your child that you cannot provide at a given moment. It is with the utmost love and unselfishness that such a decision is made. Our son will never have to question where he came from, or if his birthparents loved him!!! He will always know!

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