[Isabelle]

I have recently had a daughter born with a rare genetice syndrome. She will be severly mentally retarded and autistic. We are considering having her adopted. I would like to hear from anyone who has either given up their special needs child or has adopted a speical needs child. Also, I would like to hear from anyone who has something to add to this subject. How do people feel about adopting children with syndromes?

[Barksum]

There is a site where you can contact people who have biological and/or biological children who have many forms of physical and mental difficulties. They work with families who are rearing their children with disabilities, they work with families wanting to locate children with physical/mental disabilities to adopt, and with biological parents who are trying to decide whether to place their children for adoption. This is a Christian based organization, so their philosophy follows that belief system. http://www.chask.org

[Barksum]

I meant to say that the people on that site are rearing "biological and/or adopted" children. Too many distractions and I didn't proof read! Sorry.

[yael]

We have three adopted children with special needs. One daughter has Prader Willi Syndrome and our twins have not had their syndrome identified specifically, but they definitely have a syndrome.

We have raised other biological children and felt drawn to the idea of raising children who are particularly vulnerable. We have been asked many times why we would want to take this on, and I just have to look at my three daughters who are thriving and progressing, to know the answer. This is the most rewarding thing I have done in my life. It is not that raising my healthy children has not been rewarding, too, but this is a very special kind of rewarding. (We hope to adopt one more Jewish child with special needs.)

I assume you have looked into resources for raising your child yourself. But, know that there are people and organizations to help you should you decide to do this. Best of luck.

Yael