Shatell

I placed my son for adoption because I wanted him to have a stable lifestyle and a two-parent household. I didn't want him to struggle in life. I already have four children, so I wasn't ready for another.

How did Angel Adoption help you choose adoption?

Angel Adoption helped me choose a family for my son by sending me portfolios of the families that were ready for a child.

What were your concerns going into the adoption process?

I was terrified about not finding the right family for my child, and if anyone would judge me for doing what I chose to do.

What helped ease your concerns while going through the adoption process?

I got to talk with the adoptive family all day, every day. They reassured me they were going to take care of the child the way I would have.

How did Angel Adoption help you through the adoption process?

They took care of finding the family for my child's needs and connected me with the people I needed to get everything taken care of.

What were you looking for in an adoptive family?

I wanted an outgoing couple that really had a want for a child. A family that was not able to have a child of their own. The adoptive mother wasn't able to have a child for herself and she and her husband were ready to have one. The first phone conversation we had we clicked very quickly and still talk to each other to this day.

How did your baby's adoptive family help you through the adoption process?

They talked with me on the phone a lot. I got to FaceTime them during all the doctor’s appointments. They made sure I was ok if I started to feel down about the decision.

What type of adoption did you choose?

I chose an open adoption because I still want to be a part of the child's life. Just so I know they made it ok.

Describe your thoughts and emotions before and after the baby's birth.

Before, I was an emotional wreck. After I had the baby, I cried hard at first, but when I got to see the adoptive parents interact with the baby, I knew that was where he was supposed to be.

What are you looking forward to now that the adoption process is completed?

I look forward to seeing the pictures and videos of him growing. It’s funny because he actually looks like the adoptive father!

What advice would you give to other pregnant women who are considering adoption?

I would just tell them they can't let someone else decide for them. The choice is up to you, and if you know placing that child is going to be better for the life of that child, then do it. These people only want to love the child as if it were their own. Make someone's world better for them and give them a gift nobody else can.