Donations in Support of Adoption UK

Hi, my name is Coillin. I’m 17 and I’m from Belfast.

This July will mark the 14th anniversary of my adoption.

This coming February, I’ll be turning 18. As I move into a new chapter in my life, it also feels like a new chapter in my adoption journey.

For my birthday, I’ve decided that I don’t want big presents or parties or anything like that. My birthday wish is to help children who have gone through — and are still going through — the same process I’ve experienced over the past nearly 18 years.

I’ve decided to start a GoFundMe for family and friends to donate any money they were planning to spend on birthday presents or parties. Anyone else who would like to support this cause is also more than welcome to donate — any contribution will be deeply appreciated.

All of the money raised will be donated to a charity called Adoption UK.

Adoption UK is the leading charity for adopted and care-experienced people, adoptive families, and others parenting children who can’t live with their birth parents. This charity is active across Northern Ireland, Scotland, England, and Wales.

Their vision is of a society where every child or young person unable to live with their birth parents can thrive in childhood and has an equal chance of a bright future as an adult.

Their purpose is to secure the right support at the right time for children and young people who are unable to live with their birth parents — from childhood into adulthood.

Growing up, this charity has always held a special place in my heart, and now I believe it’s my turn to give back to the people who helped and supported me along the way.

Thank you all so much for your love and support through everything.