[maimms]

Hello Matt,

I recently adopted a 12 yr old girl from the foster care system. She was from Connecticut and I live in NY.... she was more than willing to move. I am a 55 yr old single women, and I wanted to adopt a teenager. We met, spent several days/overnights together, then she moved in on Nov 25th. So far, things are going very well. It is challenging and I sometimes feel overwhelmed at this change taking place in my life, but I am committed to her and she is a gift.

People willing to adopt older children are considered 'golden' by adoption professionals, as there are many older children available for adoption in the US and, statistically, the older the children get, the less likely it is that they will get adopted.

My recommendation to you and your wife is to do your homework. There are many resources available on the internet to learn about the adoption process. I went through an agency called Downey Side....they have offices in several states including NY. MA, MO.... they are terrific. I went through the photolistings, and reading about some of the children can really be frightening. I was ultimately matched with a child that was not listed, and when I read her profile, I felt nothing....but I decided to keep an open mind and learn more about her. It is true that older children come with a variety of 'issues', but I am amazed at how truly resilient they are.

As you learn more and more about these 'special' children, it can seem overwhelming and scary, but you will get past it. So, if this is something you want to do, go for it..... there's a daughter or son out there waiting to join your family!

Best of luck to you.
Marge....new mom to Sandy.