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DoubleScoop/Lisa --
I have a serious question I wonder if you would comment on: So many couples pursue adoption in Russia ... but how do you determine whether your referred child has FAS?
During our Russian adoption process I'm learning what a heartbreaking issue this is.
Our referral, a beautiful year-old girl, looked wonderful to me ... she looked alert and strong in the video.
But our U.S. doc was concerned by her low birth weight, small hc ... and he could not see a distinct filtrum ("dent" above the lip) in the video. All possible signs of FAS, an alcohol-caused mental retardation that can't be cured by love.
I'm broken hearted, but not yet ready to decline this referral (dh is ... ).
How does one determine for sure whether a child has FAS? In my sadness I am suspect that ALL our future referrals may have FAS. I can't stand the idea of rejecting a series of children (altho' they will have no knowledge of it ... and the agency says this particular little girl will be adopted by someone else "in a quick minute."
Any insight would be appreciated. Thanks for your time.
Regards,
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