single late 30's woman with disability(maintained) unsure if I would be allowed to adopt

February 3, 2002

Originally Posted By Elayne

I am a single 37 year old female with a permanent disability that is well maintained. I have always wanted children but had hysterectomy last year. I have wanted to adopt for years, but had not checked into because of hearing that I would not be eligible to be a parent. I believe I would make a great mother for a child, and have not made this decision lightly. Has anyone had an experience such as this, and are people who are "differently-abled" not usually approved to adoption? Any comments would be much appreciated. I have not found any adoption sites for disabled adoptive parents.

Thanks,

Elayne

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February 19, 2002

Originally Posted By Lee Varon

Elayne, I have worked with countless people with disabilities who have adopted. You do not say where you are located but it will be important that you contact an agency that will work with you and not see your disability as an impediment. You will need to show the agency that you have thought your adoption plans through carefully and that you have a realistic sense of what you might need. For example, would you need extra support or assistance to help with child care? In many cases a so called disability can be a postive asset when it comes to adopting a child. Often dealing with a disability can give one a greater sense of empathy and patience when it comes to dealing with the many issues adopted children struggle with. Try to locate other single people in your area and see what their experiences were with different agencies. Then talk to the agencies and explain your situation. Good luck and let me know what happens.

Lee