My partner Louise and I have always known we were going to adopt, despite fertility not being an issue for us. Having researched adoption to the ends of the earth, we expected that the first stage would involve a lot of waiting and checks. However, we received an early Christmas present by progressing to stage two. Louise and I found the social worker sessions particularly rewarding – learning more about each other as a couple, despite being together for 12 years.
A few months later, we were invited to panel. Even though we knew we wouldn’t have made it this far without there being a strong chance of being approved, we were both convinced it would be a “no”. However, the warm welcome we received calmed our nerves and the whole experience was far more relaxed than we thought it would be. Tears of relief were soon in full flow when our social worker confirmed their approval.
Just one week later, we were matched with two siblings. While it took a few months for them to be formally placed with us, our love for the children grew each day that we waited. It all became worth it the moment we met our then two-year-old daughter.
Louise and I remember looking at her and just thinking ‘I can’t believe we’re finally together’. The next day, we met our 10-month-old son – another overwhelmingly perfect experience.
The first night we put the children to bed was an incredibly special moment for us; I sat up for hours watching them sleeping, in complete awe. Despite being in different foster homes, their sibling bond has grown quickly and strongly and they’re now the best of friends. We would encourage anyone considering adoption to not let anything hold you back.
If you have room in your hearts and home and you are considering adoption please go for it.
Social workers know you’re human too, so you don’t have to paint a perfect, happy picture all the time. They’re there for you to vent to during the tougher parts too. The immense pride you feel when you’re all at home together and thriving is worth the challenges throughout the process. If you receive a “no” the first time you’re linked to a child, don’t give up, it may not be a forever no. Just remember that love really does conquer all.