Richelle Carey’s Adoption Journey After 50
In a real and relatable story from Essence.com, Richelle Carey, an Emmy award-winning journalist, shares her journey to becoming a mother after the age of 50.
Overcoming Challenges
At 43, Richelle faced the crossroads of pursuing her career and the wish for motherhood. She made the deliberate choice to freeze her eggs. It wasn’t until she turned 46 that she utilized the frozen eggs for in vitro fertilization (IVF) which was, unfortunately, unsuccessful.
International Adoption Hurdles
Living in Doha, Qatar, Richelle encountered challenges in international adoption. Hiring a social worker from Germany for her home study and finding a U.S. agency willing to work with her from abroad were significant hurdles. Her resilience became evident as she navigated through these obstacles.
Avery’s Arrival
In 2020, undeterred by setbacks, Carey returns to the United States. In March 2021, she gets a life-changing call to meet a birth mother in Dallas with a 6-week-old baby named Avery. The adoption happens quickly, and within just four days, little Avery comes home.
Reflections on Unconventional Motherhood
At 50, Richelle defied societal expectations. Looking back, she remarks, “If you told me that at 50 years old I would be a single mom living in my parents’ guest house, I would think that I had screwed up my life. But actually, everything turned out perfectly, so it’s the exact opposite.” Richelle’s story challenges norms and emphasizes the power of love and the possibilities adoption can bring no matter the age.
