Stacey's Story

How hard is it to give your child up - for a better life?

I've made a lot of mistakes in my life--and I have a lot of regrets. I was 16-years old when I had "Ellie", and I spent the next four years struggling with alcohol and neglecting my daughter.

Growing up I never had good role models or a stable support network of my own--And I wanted that for Ellie more than anything in the world. We had relatives in Kansas who could provide a stable and loving family for her and they had offered to adopt her. In preparation for the transition, my daughter and I met with Kinship House counselors and we were able to better understand Ellie's insecurities. In an art therapy session, Ellie drew pictures of me and asked if I'd be mad if she loved her new adoptive family. With the help of Kinship House, we were able to talk about a heart being big enough to love a lot of people, and she understood that I would always love her no matter what.

It was the hardest thing I've ever done to give Ellie up for adoption, but I love her more than anything in the world and want her to have a better chance at a good life.