Pregnancy Hotline Blog

Birth mother, Kami, recently answered questions about the adoption plan she made for her child as well as how she feels about adoption today.

Q. Kami, is there a specific memory that sticks out in your mind about your Gladney adoption story. How did you feel, and what did it mean to you?

Five years ago, I placed my daughter. You’d think what stuck out the most would be the day I signed the papers, but it’s not. The day I remember vividly is meeting the adoptive parents. We were all nervous I’m sure. I remember being in a sea of people just watching and waiting to see if I saw the faces that I had watched on repeat from their “about me” video. That’s when they walked in, both tall, gorgeous and exactly what I expected. I remember the Christmas trees that were around us in the restaurant and the Christmas tree that was in the giant snow globe they gifted me, it still sits out every year and will now be a way to incorporate adoption into every Christmas. I remember standing outside after lunch and asking the adoptive mom if she would be in the delivery room. I remember the tears and the pain and joy all in one single moment. If there was ever a moment that described adoption perfectly that was it—beautiful, full of love, and full of pain.

It's easy to be confused about all the different phrases and terms while making an adoption plan. We created some videos that help to define adoption through the different steps.

We recently had the opportunity to ask birth mother, Jessie, questions about the adoption plan she made for her child as well as how she feels about adoption today.

We're living in a really stressful time -- especially when you're pregnant and unsure of what to do. You are not alone. You are in control. You choose the parents.

Dear Mama,

I know times are unsettling. You’d think I mean the world around you right now, but I’ve been in your shoes before and I, actually, mean I know your world is unsettling right now. I cannot imagine the added worry that you face being pregnant in today’s COVID-19 climate. But what I do know, is that you are strong. I don’t know what brought you to adoption, but I can tell you from my story, my main reason was always because I love my children so much, that I set them up for a different life than I could give them. But my love never wavers, it in fact grows as an outcome of our story. I see them blossoming into amazing young adults. They are funny, smart, talented, and such loving kids. I could have never imagined the full reality of where they are today, when I was talking to them through my belly. You see, while the beginning seems like the hardest and longest part, for me it was just a bittersweet season in the lifelong journey. I was scared, hurting, and felt alone sometimes. But I am strong, and I pulled through because I wanted to for them. I don’t know your story, but I want you to know that I have been daily thinking of you. My heart is with you and I hope you know that you are not alone, there is a sisterhood of birth mothers who support and applaud your strength, courage, and emotions. When you feel alone, tell baby all about the dreams you have for them. I know they are just as big as the dreams I have for you.

21 and pregnant. Parenting not an option. After talking with one of Gladney's Options Counselors and receiving education on how she could make her own adoption plan for her child, Megan chose adoption. Watch her share her 'why'.

We want you to know that we're here for you.

The Gladney Center for Adoption is deemed by the government essential to the communities we serve.  Because of this status, our adoption team is working to make sure we are providing help to expectant parents and parents currently parenting who want to make an adoption plan for their child(ren). We are practicing social distancing, but that won't stop us from giving you the help you need.  

Xena is a loving and charismatic person but most importantly, a strong woman. She unfortunately had to face the struggles of being a single parent and placing her second child for adoption. Placing her child for adoption was the hardest thing she has ever done. Even so, all Xena wanted was the absolute best for her.

Our Options Counselors are here to walk you through every step of what adoption looks like for you and the child you are placing for adoption. They are here to answer your questions and provide you with information that you might not even know you need yet.