I was born in Kharkiv, Ukraine and my two sisters were born in Odessa, Ukraine.  My older brother was born in Hawaii but came from Rhode Island. So, What do we have in common? We are all in the same family and we are growing up together like family. 

First,  I did not have a family like everybody else in the world.  When I was born in Ukraine, I did not know my mom or dad since I was adopted pretty much right away in the orphanage.  Whenever I was in the orphanage, I didn’t know if I would get adopted when I was there.  After about 15 or 14 months of being in there,  my future parents have finally come to adopt me and take me to a home where I would spend the rest of my life.  The day I became adopted, I did not understand what was going on or where I was being brought to.  I was in the car for long hours and on a plane for several days since I had to fly across the world to get to my new home.  I knew in my mind that I would be much happier with my new family that would love me and care for me 24/7 for my whole life.  Since the day I was adopted, I have become a different person in all.  I have grown closer to my parents. About 10 years later, Some very important others came into my life.  My parents have adopted my 2 sisters from Ukraine as well.  Ever since they walked through the airport doors, I have never regretted them being with me and becoming apart of my life.  One thing that I have enjoyed from having them be in my life is they always make my day and they look out for me when I need it the most.  They have taught me how to become a much more happier person and learn how to enjoy life as it is.  

When I tell people I’m adopted, they often have a look of pity on their faces. I don’t want pity, because I am glad I’m adopted. My parents chose to raise me and my sisters. Being adopted makes me unique. Being able to meet people in my life that I would have never met if I wasn’t adopted is a privilege I am lucky to have.

I am so grateful to have my whole family and being with them from the beginning.  My life has changed so much during the 16 years and I am so happy that I have a family that loves me and cares so much for me.  This was my story and I am so thankful to share it.