[shandrath]

We have been researching adoption in Panama for some time. It seems so unpredictable based on what is said here but far more affordable than Guatemala. I feel very drawn to guatemala but cringe at the costs. I feel somewhat drawn to Panama and like the costs there but can't figure out what to do about the amount of travel required. I have three children here at home that would need care and I just can't leave them for so long and can't see the costs of taking them as reasonable. Also we feel strongly that we are to adopt a two-three year old and a younger sibling or younger unrelated sibling. Two from guatemala is the price of an expensive car. How do you fund it? But Panama might take so long that the cost will be in the form of heartache.
Any suggestions...

Shannon

[ccmccoy]

Our journey to Panama adoption has not been quite as hard as others. We are using a private attorney in Panama. So far she seems great. We are just in the beginning of the process. She has been very helpful and corresponds regularly even though we have not signed a contract yet. If you PM me I can send you her information and you can get in touch with her. It wouldn't hurt just to talk with her and see what she says. She has done another successful adoption with a family from this forum (that is how I got her name).

We are planning on taking out a home equity loan to fund the adoption. We have 2 bio children and plan on taking them with us. We are also looking into getting an apartment for our stay, and a live in maid. No we are not rich by any means. We just know that we cannot leave our children here, we want them as much a part of the process as we are, and maids down there are not very expensive at all!!! Don't forget that you get a tax credit on your income tax return. Our SW told us it is up to $11,000 per child. This should cover all of the costs including an apartment, travel for all of you, and attorney's fees, etc. I have heard of some banks giving loans with this in mind. There are also grants out there. Google adoption grants and you should find some info. if not PM me and I will give the website I have. (I don't know if I can post it here.)

Panama is a beautiful (I visited when I was 12) and safe country. There is so much to see and do there. It would be an experience of a life time for your bio children. I know it is hard to decide. Our story is a long one but we have had positive experience so far. I think every country has its difficulties in one way or another. I wish more couples would adopt from Panama, then maybe the Panamanian gov't would see the importance and make it easier for future families.

If you want to know more just PM me.

Cheryl

[Stephanie4444]

Hello there,

Could you please give me the name of the person you're using in Panama to arrange your adoption? Are you concerned that they are legit? Is there a way to check them out?

How long has your process taken?

Thanks for the help.

[mommytoEli]

this thread is super old, and neither of the members have been on since 2007. lol. why don't you start a new thread asking the same questions. there is not much activity here, as there is not much activity in panama adoptions.

you may learn more by following these links:

Panama Adoption - International, Agencies, Programs, Information, Costs -

http://jcics.org/Panama.htm

Intercountry Adoption Panama

good luck