[MMcpadden]

Hi all.

I just had a reunion with my birth family and I am pleased to say it was an overwhelmingly positive experience. I was doing some random research online last December and learned that the State of Massachusetts, where I was born and raised, had recently passed a law granting most adult adoptees the right to their original birth certificates. I sent in the request and within a few months I had my certificate in my hand.

My birthmother's name and address were on the birth certificate, but not my birthfather's. Even though she has married -- not my birthfather -- and has a new last name since giving me up for adoption in 1969, she still lives in the same house. Imagine that!

We ended up making contact and she was extremely receptive. Her family had actually been looking for me. My mom and dad were so excited too. My mom made her a photo album of me from the time of my adoption until the present --complete with my husband and two children. I met her, her mother and her husband at my parents' house in April. It was amazing. Since then, I have met my half-sister from Colorado, my half-brother and his two kids, my birth grandfather, aunt and uncle and their families. My mom and dad and my sister and her family have met them all too. We all got together at a barbecue for the 4th of July.

The best part about all of this has been knowing that the guilt and sadness my birthmother has felt for 39 years is finally being eased. She did a wonderful thing when she gave me up for adoption. I have a fantastic family and have lived a good life. Now it is her turn to have some much deserved happiness. :-)

I wish all of you who have not yet found your birthparents the same good fortune I have had in finding my birthmother.

[sstuart]

I am glad to see this. I meet my dd tomorrow!! and I am so glad to hear positive experiences. YAY!!

[bothsides]

That is really great news! Congratulations! Can't wait to hear more...

SSTUART - good luck to you tomorrow! Also very exciting.

[JustPeachy]

Thank you for sharing your reunion story. As someone hoping for a reunion, it is reassuring to hear that things can and do go smoothly!

[kelceesmom]

That is great to read. I hope many more people have a positive experience.

[jrainbow]

Congratulations ... and thanks for sharing such a happy story. Keep in touch - it is always good to hear about happiness.

[wishfulthinker]

Congratulations! It's wonderful to hear about a happy reunion - keeps hope alive!