"It is out of LOVE an adoption plan is made." - Gerrianne #BraveLove

I was a single mother, with three small boys. I was living on public assistance, in low-income housing, with plans to begin college in the Winter Semester... I didn't know how I could emotionally handle another child.

"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

"To the birth mothers and fathers, never lose sight of the dreams you have for the children that you created. Hold on to the hope that you released them with. " - Angell, birth 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!"