SacMomsClub.com

My brother and his wife have a wonderful six year old son. They are great parents and are providing him with a loving, nurturing and supportive home. For whatever reason, however, even with the help of fertility drugs, they were unable to conceive for a second time.  After much consideration, they decided to adopt. They went through the interview process, paperwork, classes, screenings and other necessary steps.  Once approved, they were put on a waiting list. They had been on the list for over 18 months until the silence was broken. On a recent Thursday evening, the adoption agency called to say that a woman had just given birth to a baby girl and they had been selected to be the parents. They could meet their new baby on Sunday.

Thrilled beyond words, they prepared steadily for three days. Putting up the crib, buying diapers and most significantly, opening their hearts, minds and emotions to the thought of welcoming a baby girl into their lives.  

Sunday rolled around and they drove for over four hours to the hospital. (they live in a different state). On the way to the hospital, they called immediate family members to spread the good word. My brother's voice was filled with excitement and anticipation. Something that they had wanted for so long was about to become a reality. Unfortunately, the story doesn't have a happy ending for them. By the time they arrived at the hospital, they were greeted by the representative from the adoption agency. She had a grim look on her face. Apparently there was a breakdown in communication and the birth mother changed her mind on Saturday and decided to keep her baby.

She absolutely has the right to change her mind. I'm convinced it must be one of the hardest decisions a woman will ever have to make. I just felt so badly for my brother and his family. Although they were only notified four days earlier, it was long enough for them to become completely in love with the idea of raising another child. It would be unfair to describe the woman's background, situation and financial means in this blog, because it does not make her feelings for her child any less significant. But it is hard knowing that my brother and his wife would have been able to provide everything this baby could want or need as evidence by their son.

When I spoke to my brother, he described it as a "heart wrenching" experience which is a very strong word for him to use considering that he is a pretty happy-go-lucky guy. I share their heartache with them, but they are also very aware and appreciative for the many blessings they have. If it's meant to be, it will be.