"I was scared to share my story out of fear of people being judgmental. Today, I am very open to sharing in hopes of it helping someone." - Nacole, birth mom #BraveLove

Leading up to my daughter’s birth, I was so nervous. I knew placing her for adoption was the right decision for me and for my baby. I also knew it was going to be very difficult, physically and emotionally.

"I thought adoption was giving up. I didn't abandon my son... I chose what was best for him." Watch as Sarah and the family she placed with, share an honest portrayal of not only the struggle, but also the joy and beauty that has come from their open adoption.

What's it like for birth moms to date? Read these tips from one birth mother to another.

"If the world knew the love, sacrifice and thought put forth by the birth parents, they wouldn't think of it as such a risky topic." - Allie #BraveLove

"Everyone impacted by adoption needs a strong community of love and support!" - Wynter #BraveLove

"The biggest lesson of the last few years is that fear is a thief! " - Tamra #BraveLove

I have been a birth mom for 21 years and navigating what that journey looks like ever since. For a season, I didn’t share my journey, it was mine, and honestly, it was very personal. I didn’t want to invite anyone else into it; kind of like a kid with candy! I wanted to keep all the good stuff for myself.

I placed my daughter for adoption in 1996 when I was just 17 years old. During my pregnancy, I struggled with my adoption plan, but one look at her perfection, and the doubt was gone! She was perfect and deserved so much more than I was equipped to provide.

Of course, when I think about things for any length of time, I tend to see them in view of adoption. There is no moment in life that I can think of where joy and grief are more present (in an all-out battle, if you will) than during an adoption.