I am embarking on a dream to adopt a child!! Will you be part of this journey with me?

I know many of you are probably not surprised by this news, having known my heart for orphaned and underprivileged children for so many years. The truth is, becoming a mother through adoption is something I started dreaming of since I was a teenager and although I have been serious about it for many years, this is the time that has felt right to do so.

The process to adopt is a long one (to say the least). I have spent years researching, meeting with professionals and doing tremendous soul searching, until I finally decided to take tangible steps towards this dream last July (2020). I completed the mandatory adoption course (PRIDE), hired an adoption practitioner to undergo a series of interviews, collecting documents, having a home study, completing medical examinations/reports, as well as an in-depth psychological assessment by a registered psychiatrist. It has been a year of dedication, filled with a tremendous emotional investment. The months of preparation would then mean the submission of my portfolio to the Ontario Ministry of Child and Youth Services for approval to be eligible to adopt domestically or internationally. And just recently, I received that as well, which was very exciting!

So where am I adopting from?

Initially, I was interested to adopt domestically within Ontario through Children's Aid Services (CAS). Unfortunately, however, not only does domestic adoption not play in favour of a single applicant, but there are also numerous restrictions within the CAS adoption system that make my chances highly unlikely. The list is a bit long, but I'm always happy to discuss them with whoever might be interested to learn more about domestic adoption in Ontario - this includes our lack of programming/options for fostering to adopt.

When I began to look into international adoption, it didn't take long before I learned that many countries either do not allow single applicant adoptions (including Iran), while some had very long waiting periods (approximately 5 years). I learned that currently, the most suitable countries for single applicants to adopt from are Thailand and India. Being more familiar with Indian culture and having close friends with the same background since childhood, it was a more appropriate fit.

What's next?

My request to work with one of the international adoption agencies I was interested in was accepted after an interview process. Since I have received my "stamp of approval" from the Ministry, I'm all set to submit my application package (dossier) to India through the agency - to adopt a girl, 0-48 months.

The help I need ...

With only a two year window before my certification to adopt expires (and my age limiting me with each passing year), I really don't have the opportunity to have things materialize at my leisure. The hefty cost of international adoption is a hurdle that I need to sort out. In order to start the application process with India, I am required to make a first payment of $11,000 right away. Once I am matched with a child (which could take up to one year), I am required to make another big payment (approximately $15,000). Near the end of the adoption finalization, there are additional costs for lawyer/representation at the court in India, as well as immigration and citizenship to be able to bring my child home. The total quote is $25,000 - $30,000.

Knowing so wholeheartedly that a child is waiting for me to call me mother, I have a hard time turning my back on this journey due to the cost that international adoption entails. So many of you have supported me over the years with the fundraising I have done for orphanages and group homes in Iran. I was constantly blown away by everyone's generosity and I knew that each dollar that amounted to thousands over the years came to me with love and a heart for making a difference in a child's life. This adoption will be a blessing to me, if I will ever be so fortunate to become a mother in this way. Above all, however, it will also be an opportunity for a child to grow up in a forever family. I came across a quote that read, "if there is a cause worth fighting for, it's this: children belong in families" (Nicole Skellenger). This is something I strongly believe in and I am ready to do what I can to make it a reality for at least one child in my lifetime. Therefore, as difficult as it is for me to seek out financial support, I am doing it because I don't want to ever regret not trying simply because there were obstacles standing in my way.

Your giving will mean the world to me. However, your prayers, good energy and love will also mean so much to me. I truly hope that in the near future I will be able to introduce you to my forever daughter from India.

With love and gratitude,
Maryam