Birthmother's Stories

Sara
Mary

Sara's Story: A Letter of Thanks
Dear Ann,
I want to thank you so much for all of your help, guidance and encouragement through this extremely difficult decision. You will never know how much it meant to me. I am getting better day-by-day.

At first, after the birth, I had a lot of bad days, especially around the holidays. My family, friends and co-workers have all been so supportive. I have followed up with counseling and support groups, which has also helped. The birthfather, Adam, has been so strong. We have been keeping in touch, and its nice to talk to someone who is feeling the same way I am.

I keep pictures of the baby close to me at work and at home. I thought it would be easier to just put all the memories in a box and try to move on. But that is not the case for me. Instead, I like to look at the pictures and keep them out for people to see. It helps to talk about him and to tell people what a great family he has. Before it was like I was ashamed of my decision and felt as if I made a selfish choice, but everyone tells me how strong I am and that I made a very unselfish decision.

I am just so grateful to have had you come into my life when you did. You are such an amazing woman, both personally and professionally. I would not have wanted anyone else with me in the hospital or when signing the papers. I never felt pressured and thought of you more as an advocate for me regardless of what your title was. I will never forget our first meeting and how comfortable I felt with both you and the adoptive family. After that meeting, I knew everything would be okay for the baby and for me.

Thank you,
Sara

Mary's Story: Wrong Time, Right Decision
I was 23 years old, single and the mother of a three year old. I cant remember a time in my life when I was more confused or more afraid than when I found out I was pregnant again. For the first few months I chose to deny the pregnancy. I knew I could not afford this baby. I turned to a friend who gave me the support and love and permission I needed to make the decision to place my child for adoption.

I was surprised to learn that as the birth parent I was able to make all the decisions concerning my child. I selected my adoptive parents and chose to receive letters and pictures as the child grows.