Did you know there are more ways to be a parent than one? This year, we are looking at three different AFTH families with three distinct roles as parents to celebrate Parents Day.
Adoptive Parents
Kristy: Kristy is the Director of Marketing and Communications here at Adoptions From The Heart. She is also a mother to two biological sons and a daughter, Regan, whom she transracially adopted through our agency.
When initiating the adoption process, Kristy and her husband were fully prepared to be totally open with their potential birth parents as they wholeheartedly believe in open adoption. They envisioned all parties taking vacations together, frequent visits, and having holiday dinners.
When Kristy’s daughter was placed with her family, her birth mother needed space to process her emotions and handle the events in her own life. Kristy was wholly understanding, and while she may have felt saddened at the time, she recognizes that communication ebbs and flows in any relationship, especially an adoption.
Kristy and her husband are glad to have a relationship with their daughter’s birth mother and know she is a part of their family. The couple makes it a point to speak openly about adoption to all of their children. Kristy is incredibly grateful that her daughter’s birth mother is there to answer any questions Regan may have about her birth or heritage.
Birth Parents
Mary: Mary is a birth mother who placed her daughter for adoption with AFTH. She discovered she was pregnant at roughly the sixth-month mark. Mary thought about who she was and the plan she had for her life. She had never pictured motherhood as part of the equation. After much consideration, Mary decided she would facilitate an adoption plan through our agency.
Mary picked a wonderful family for her daughter. One whom she credits with saving her and her daughter’s life. Mary is an inspiring birth mother and shares a beautiful open adoption within her triad. The parents are very close, speaking with each other at least three to four times a week, including Facetime. The triad celebrates special occasions when Mary attends her daughter’s birthday party, and the adoptive parents visit her house for Christmas.
Making an adoption plan for her daughter was one of the selfless decisions a parent can make. Open adoptions are wonderful but can be daunting in the beginning. Mary let her reservations go so her daughter could thrive. Mary is a better, more compassionate person because of her decision.
Step-Parents
Kyle: Kyle’s journey through parenthood is unique as he is both a birth father and stepfather. Ten years ago, he placed his first son for adoption through our agency. He made an adoption plan with his then-girlfriend, Jackie.
After placing, Kyle and those surrounding him continued to acknowledge his role as a father. He and his son’s birth mother celebrated on Mother’s and Father’s Day, respectively. Kyle’s parents and his son’s adoptive father always send their well-wishes for the holiday.
Kyle has since remarried and is a stepfather to his wife’s son. His wife and stepson have joined him in visiting his birth son’s family. They communicate regularly and try to see each other as often as they can. Kyle’s entire family is an extraordinary example of the beauty of blended families.
We have seen three different parents with three unique roles, each one equally important and valuable to their child’s life. This Parents Day, take a moment to recognize the great parents you know in your life, celebrating the love and support they provide for their children.
To learn more about AFTH parents, check out AFTHtv!
