"I have a very close relationship with my first daughter’s birth mom and I have told her, “You made me a mother.” For that, I am forever grateful." - LeighAnn, adoptive mom #BraveLove

As we all know, adoption impacts people forever. The journey isn't over after the decision has been made. That's why we love to stay connected with those who have shared their stories with BraveLove over the years, like Miranda.

I was not familiar with adoption. I didn't know of anyone who had been through this process.

I thought adoption was a little scary because I couldn’t plan for how I would feel after I gave birth. I knew I was doing the right thing but I was terrified I would change my mind at the last minute and have nothing for a baby at home.

Ana placed her son for adoption 3 and a half years ago. She shared her story with BraveLove about two years ago. So we're catching up and learning what her life looks like these days.

Before my adoption, I didn’t really have any thoughts or opinions on adoption. At least none that I felt particularly strongly about, that I can remember. I knew it was something people did for various reasons, but it had never affected me directly so I had never put too much thought into it. I do remember that my sisters used to tease me that I was adopted and that never made me feel good. It was not something that I wanted to be true.

"It is messy and beautiful. I can't quite describe how rewarding and how challenging it can be, but it is both. And I would not change it for anything!"

"Adoption education is SO vital - for expectant women, prospective adoptive families, healthcare professionals, educators, the list goes on." - Jenny, adoptee #BraveLove

"It is beautiful and hard at times for all parties." - Brooke, adoptee #BraveLove

It's hard knowing that my daughter is calling somebody else "daddy" but, ultimately, it's all part of the process, and in my opinion, more than anything, it teaches us, as fathers, how to be more resilient.