April 21-27 is National Infertility Awareness Week. This week is all about making people aware of infertility, supporting those who have experienced it and educating others about the topic. This year, AFTH wants to take time to highlight a story of infertility within the adoption community and how open adoption ended up playing a part in the family’s story.
When Chelsea and James married in 2014, they both knew they wanted to start a family. Unfortunately, the couple began experiencing problems with infertility. Despite this, they knew that still having children was not out of the question. They just wanted to be parents and did not care if the child was necessarily related to them by blood. The couple ended up researching adoption agencies. They chose AFTH after seeing many positive reviews from people who had gone through the agency in their adoption journey. They also chose the agency for its philanthropic efforts, like birth mother scholarships, and its focus on diversity.
As an interracial couple raising two black children, diversity was very important to Chelsea and James. They were open to adopting children of any race and could not be happier with their two boys. Chelsea and James emphasize the importance of education about race and being open with children about the realities of the subject. Inclusion and representation in books, toys, etc. is also important so the boys never feel isolated.
The adoption process was a bit of a whirlwind for the couple. They both described themselves having good days and bad days throughout. One thing they pointed out was helpful was planning activities to do with the children’s grandparents in preparation for each baby. It made everyone feel included while also aiding them in getting ready for the arrival of their child.
Both of their children were placed with them suddenly. They got their call about the arrival of their oldest son during the workday. The call about their younger son arrived while they were at a museum. Despite the unexpectedness, Chelsea and James had no doubt they would adopt the children and give them a loving upbringing. The two boys are biological siblings, so they felt they had to keep them together.
Chelsea and James have an active relationship with their boys’ birth mom. They try to visit her twice a year and send her photos of the boys every month. Most of their communication is through text. They say they think of her as a part of the family and that open adoption is an important part of their story.
During National Infertility Awareness Week, it is important to highlight stories like this to make people aware of their options. Adoption is not for everyone, but if you or someone you know is experiencing infertility, adoption is another avenue to raising children. If you have any further questions, feel free to reach out to AFTH.
