Adoption & Reunion: Finding Family, Healing Wounds

In this episode of Adoptees Crossing Lines, Lia, Noelle, and Tosha discuss the complexities of reunion and how reconnecting with biological family members can bring both healing and heartbreak. They share personal stories of searching for family, facing rejection, embracing acceptance, and navigating the emotional toll of reunion. With candid insights and thoughtful advice, they explore the ups and downs of finding their families and making sense of their experiences.

In this episode, we cover:

• (00:05) Introduction to the episode and listener submission about reunion.
• (01:03) Defining reunion and how it differs for each adoptee.
• (02:54) Personal reunion stories and unique family dynamics.
• (08:10) Navigating expectations and working with therapists.
• (11:04) The pain of rejection and the fear of abandonment.
• (14:24) Feeling like a disruption and finding acceptance.
• (19:13) How grief and reunion are intertwined.
• (23:32) The importance of support groups and adoption-competent therapy.
• (29:26) Hopes for the future and continuing the reunion journey.
• (32:52) Advice for those starting their own reunion journey.

Resources Mentioned:

• Peer Support Space - Free Global Online Peer Support Group for Survivors of the Family Policing System

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• Website: adopteescrossinglines.com
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Listen to these episodes next:

• Lia's Episode: Lia shares her personal journey of coming out of the fog, confronting the trauma of adoption, and navigating her relationship with her adoptive family and biological roots.
• Noelle's Episode: Noelle discusses her experience as a transracial adoptee, the complexities of reunion, and how identity plays a critical role in her healing journey.

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Special Thanks:

Special thanks to Samuel Oyedele for editing our podcast. Support his work on Instagram: @drumaboyiglobal or email him at [email protected].