Dear Harlan:
I read the letter in your column this morning from “Scared”–the soon- to-be 16-year-old who is pregnant by an 18-year-old.
I think part of your advice was very good–you recommended talking to someone who could give her some advice. I think it would have been nice to mention that there are also many adoption agencies out there that are more than willing to counsel and help pay for the prenatal care all the way through birth. They even offer counseling for the mother after the birth to help cope.
I adopted a little girl just over a year ago. This is probably the most blessed event of my life and brings me so much joy. There are so many deserving couples out there waiting to adopt. I think you should reconsider your advice and also mention adoption agencies in the future. By the way, I am also an adopted child.
John
Dear John,
After reading your response, I put a call into the National Adoption Information Clearinghouse. I spoke to a counselor who has trained hundreds of individuals who counsel expectant mothers on adoption education and procedures.
According to the group, referrals for adoption at ALL pregnancy counseling centers are only about 2 percent. The overwhelming outcome: Adoption is something that needs much more attention.
Like you said, it’s a great way to give a gift of life. There are so many people who would love to receive that gift. If you’re pregnant and interested in adoption, please go to www.adoptioncouncil.org to find an agency near you.
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Harlan@helpmeharlan.com.
For more, chicagotribune.com/advice.
