[meaganebrown]

Hi. We just adopted a 17 month boy from Ethiopia. He has a congenital leg deformity (popliteal webbing) that will require an amputation. I'm interested in hearing about other families who have gone through major surgery with their kiddos. How long did you wait? Any advice?

[momraine]

HI, I adopted my daughter six years ago today from Russia. she had various issues, she is missing both fibulas, a tibia and most foot bones and some fingers, she had webbed fingers and other stuff. Anyway, we did an amputation and also repaired her hand in one surgery when she had been home about 6 months. She was 16 months old by then. She did great and I actually think it helped our bonding. We went to specialists soon after she was home, but it took time to schedule everything. She was walking on prosthetic legs by the time she turned 2. She is now about to be 7 and amazing, she dances, cheers, runs and jumps. A great resource is the I-can group. http://www.child-amputee.net/
many of the parents have adopted kids and I learn so much from them.

[Abdulina]

I know this is a very late reply but there is a wonderful yahoo group out there for us. It is adopting children w/ limb differences. I can give you the direct link if you'd like. It is a fantastic resource for parents like us. Our son is missing his leg but it was a congenital amputation. But there are parents on there w/ experience of having done the amputation that would be a great resource for you. Good luck.

Take care,

[fostercarenurse]

I have to give you all kudos for being adopted parents to these special children. I would adopt an international child in a second, I just do not have to funding to do it. I am a nurse and would love to have one of these special children in my life.

[Abdulina]

Fostercarenurse,

Don't ever let money stop you from adopting a child. We are by no means wealthy and we are currently adopting our 6th and 7th child internationally. All of ours are international adoptions. You'd be suprised at what you CAN do. We have just finished up two very small fundraisers but every little bit helps. There are also grants. Two of our children come w/ grants. If you'd like, write me privately and I can give you some more info and websites. We are living proof that it can be done and that you don't need $30K in the bank to do it. These kids need their families. I wish you all the best and do write me privately if you'd liek more information.

Good luck to you.