The number of older-child adoptions is on the rise. In fact, of the nearly 8,700 international adoptions that took place last year, more than half were between the ages of 1 and 4, and nearly a quarter were between the ages of 5 and 12. This new image of adoption-due in large part to the 2008 ratification of the Hague Adoption Convention-presents new challenges for families looking to expand or start a family. From Half to Whole is a raw and honest look at the trials and tribulations of one family's struggle to adopt and raise two young boys from Poland who came to America not only with a few stuffed toys in their backpacks but also the trauma of their past. Sharing her personal diary entries, Regina Radomski reveals her compelling yet tumultuous journey to acclimate her adopted children to their new environment and the solace she found in family, friends, and valuable resources she discovered along the way. Inside you'll find . . . -Meaningful insights from licensed clinical social worker Barbara Jean Keane. -Personal letters from Radomski's husband, adopted children, and her biological child candidly describing their feelings throughout the last eight years. -Heartfelt advice from Radomski on what she's learned-and what she would have done differently. -8 key rules to successfully parent the adopted child. -Resources she recommends to help you through the adoption process. -And much more! From Half to Whole is a complete perspective on the battle scars of adoption, the love that grows from bonding together, the pride of seeing your accomplishments, and the humor that springs forth from the unexpected.
The number of older-child adoptions is on the rise. In fact, of the nearly 8,700 international adoptions that took place last year, more than half were between the ages of 1 and 4, and nearly a quarter were between the ages of 5 and 12. This new image of adoption-due in large part to the 2008 ratification of the Hague Adoption Convention-presents new challenges for families looking to expand or start a family. From Half to Whole is a raw and honest look at the trials and tribulations of one family's struggle to adopt and raise two young boys from Poland who came to America not only with a few stuffed toys in their backpacks but also the trauma of their past. Sharing her personal diary entries, Regina Radomski reveals her compelling yet tumultuous journey to acclimate her adopted children to their new environment and the solace she found in family, friends, and valuable resources she discovered along the way. Inside you'll find . . . -Meaningful insights from licensed clinical social worker Barbara Jean Keane. -Personal letters from Radomski's husband, adopted children, and her biological child candidly describing their feelings throughout the last eight years. -Heartfelt advice from Radomski on what she's learned-and what she would have done differently. -8 key rules to successfully parent the adopted child. -Resources she recommends to help you through the adoption process. -And much more! From Half to Whole is a complete perspective on the battle scars of adoption, the love that grows from bonding together, the pride of seeing your accomplishments, and the humor that springs forth from the unexpected.