Advice for What Helps Most
posted 16th Jul
Hello,
This is a strange post probably because I am pregnant (18 weeks) and have a beautiful 2 year old. But my sister, who is 3 years older than I am, hasn't been able to conceive and has turned to adoption.
Last April it seemed as if a miracle had happened. My sister and her husband had arranged to try being foster parents. They were called to pick up a healthy 2 day old baby at the hospital! It's a very complicated case, but the birth mom took great care of herself during pregnancy (no drugs, good nutrition, etc). However she had just gotten out of prison for trying to kill her two older children during a psychotic break, and was not going to be allowed to keep this infant. Anyway, the case dragged for a year. TPR (termination of parental right) was always talked about as iminent. All the case workers talked about how shewould almost certainly beavailable for adoption. Then, at about 13 months, the mother came out with the name of a sister that she wanted the baby to be place with after the TPR trial was finished. This aunt is halfway across the country and had never expressed an interest in the baby until then.
Now, the baby is almost 16 months. The trial is almost over for the TPR, and the state has arranged for the aunt to come and meet the baby. The state may recommend that the baby be placed with her, rather than be adopted by my sister after 16 months (or more, after this is all finally done) of living with her!
We are all heartbroken and it makes me sick to think of my sister losing this child. It is her baby as far as we are concerned and you can imagine the devastation she and her husband feel.
My question is, what could I possibly do for her? I feel guilty for my own pregnancy and just don't know what would possibly be helpful or supportive. Please help! I'm sorry this is so long, I guess I just needed some advice for myself - my mother calls to me to talk about my sister, and ask advice, and I don't really know how to explain how helpless I feel.
quoteposted 16th Jul
I have never been in this situation, but all I can say is tell her how much you care and are there for her. Don't feel guilty about your own pregnancy, you have to continue with your life too. I really pray that the court system looks into the best interest of the baby! I am so sorry to hear your sister is having to go through this. Hopefully all will work out for the best.
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