Darla's Story

I was removed by social services when I was a few months old. I met my new family when I was 3.5 years old. I still remember that. So I have always known that I was adopted.

When I was 20, I applied for and got my adoption file, heavily redacted, of course. On the last page, a mistake or a gift... one place where my first name was not redacted. My Mom did me the huge favor of applying for more details, and I got my full name at birth and a description of my birth parents.

Years later, in my 40s, I connected via the Adoption Reunion Registry with my very first biological relative, a cousin. He and I became partners in putting our biological family tree together. We spent many hours pouring over government statistics, border records, phone books, newspapers, and voter lists. It is amazing how one small piece of information can unlock so many more pieces.

I did DNA and connected with some wonderful people who helped me unravel more of the tale. The man listed on my birth record was not my biological father, but many, many DNA matches pointed to the man who was. I have been lucky to connect with biological family. Some want nothing to do with me, but some have embraced knowing me.

My biological father had passed away by the time I searched. My birth mother's whereabouts are unknown. She had moved and changed her first and last name, last I heard. Message received.

I have looked for another 1/2 sister. The Adoption Reunion Registry sent a letter that was delivered, but there was no reply. That is okay. Everyone gets to choose.

I am so grateful for the people who helped me with my search and the family I have been able to connect with. I had a need to find answers, and I was lucky enough to get them.