Policy & Law: Mutual Consent: Testimonials

March 21, 2008

Thomas C. Atwood, M.B.A.

President and CEO

National Council For Adoption

225 North Washington Street

Alexandria, VA 22314

Re:  New York State and Opening of Sealed Birth Records for Adult Adoptees

Dear Mr. Atwood:

Regarding the above, last year a newspaper article staed that New York State is considering, or will be, considering, the opening of these records.

This is to ask your help and consideration to do anything and all that you can, to please not allow that to happen.

Mr. Atwood, my story is tragic and sad.  Many long years ago, a predator moved into our town.  (I have read that these predators can “smell” you from a mile away)  Please excuse that expression.  Simply out, this was a married man, acquanting himself with an 18 year old, naïve, sheltered young Catholic girl, proceeding to rape me, then leaving town, never to return lf be seen again.  I can never forget the beating and shame I received from my parents, who are both now deceased.  I then went to a distant town and under the circumstances, gave up my child for adoption.

Mr. Atwood, I have lived my life with a hidden broken heart.  I eventually met and married a wonderful, understanding, great man.  He died several years ago.  No one else, not my present children nor my extended family knew of my sad, long-ago experience.

I could not and cannot handle any reconnection.  I believe that if New York state has a registry, it is fairest for all birth mothers to use a registry.

I sincerely appreciate anything and all that you can do to help to not allow any opening of sealed records to adult adoptees.  Thank you.

Respectfully yours,

(Please do nto respond as I have had to give a false address)