A mother's true love: An adoption story

THE WOODLANDS, Texas - For as long as I can remember, my parents have always been very open about my adoption. From introducing me to children’s books early in life, like A Mother For Choco and Over the Moon, to educating me about the different aspects of my adoption, they made sure I was aware and content with my situation. As Mother’s Day approaches, I’d like to reflect on the story behind my adoption and how it is so special to everyone involved in the process.

Generally speaking, adoption is the act of legally taking on the responsibility of a child that is not biologically yours. You’re probably thinking, ‘It’s not that simple,’ and you’re right! Adoption means something different for everyone. Needless to say, it is a very complex web that can be tactfully woven into a beautiful bundle of love.

I was born in Dallas, Texas from a brave, young woman that did not have the resources and capabilities to properly care for me. To my biological mother, I cannot begin to express the gratitude I have for giving me the opportunity to have this amazing life, let alone describe the love and appreciation I have for her. I was born with a small ‘hole in the heart,’ which is a congenital heart defect that affects the valves that control the blood flow through your heart. Fortunately, the brilliant doctors and nursing staff were able to conclude that I was strong enough to heal on my own without any surgery. I was transferred to a foster home in San Antonio with a woman, who apparently put me on ‘the perfect schedule’ because I was sleeping and eating regularly by the time I met my new family. To my foster mother, thank you for being there for me through this delicate transition process.

Over twenty years later, my parents and I still talk about the day I was accepted into their family and how much we cherish one another. To my parents, I am utterly thankful for them for taking me in with open arms and giving me the opportunities I would not have, otherwise, like going to college or getting married. It was an interesting and long car ride home from San Antonio to say the least because I cried for the entire three hours! Sometimes we joke, ‘Why didn’t you come with a manual?’ The funny thing is that the majority of new parents, regardless of adoptive or biological, say that at some point! I grew up as any normal child would with supportive and unconditionally loving parents, who eventually adopted their second child - my brother.

Adopted or not, I’m asking you to reflect on Mom and your family this year for Mother’s Day and celebrate one another. Think about the people in your life that helped mold you to be the person that you are today because after all, it takes a village! Happy Mother’s Day!