Deborah Amazon

Deborah Amazon recounts the story of how she came to adopt her daughter, Leah. Leah did not want to participate, but told her mother it was ok for her to share her own story.

I remember that day in mid-January 2001, I was listening to the radio when I heard about an adoption agency in Connecticut that caters to singles! You see, I was in my late 40’s, had been through a couple of long- term relationships but never married. I knew it was now or never for a child, but I could always continue my look for Mr. Right. I immediately called the agency…and from there it was smooth sailing. The waiting part was exceptionally exciting, every day I woke up with a smile on my face knowing I was going to be a mother. It was such a huge change for me to get together with other mothers of young children and share our thoughts and ideas. I was on Cloud Nine for the entire wait, which was 13 months from dossier to referral, nothing compared to these days. The referral call will always remain as one of my most memorable moments…All I could say back to the social worker that called with the good news was “OMG OMG”…and then I was emailed a picture of my beautiful daughter. In a daze I printed it and went door to door to just about everyone I could to show her off. My best friend, who is a pre-school educator and mother of twins, accompanied me to China. She was a wonderful helper. All went perfect on the short 10 days in China. Home in Vermont my daughter, Leah, who is now 15, adjusted beautifully. It took me a little bit of time, though. My life was completely changed, but within a few weeks I had the knack of it. I am so very grateful to all that encouraged me along my adoption path, although I would have done it alone the support was priceless. And today I know I made the best decision of my life back on that cold January day.