Our Adoption Story: The Johnson Family
Noelle and Brian Johnson had never really thought about adopting a child. Brian had two older children from a previous marriage, but they still wanted to grow their family. However, after their wedding in 2013, they started having issues with infertility. Thus, after a few rounds of IVF, one of which resulted in a miscarriage, they turned to Adoption Choices to help them achieve their dream. Their dream finally became a reality when they adopted their daughter Mackenzie in March 2019.
The Johnson Family’s Adoption Story
For the Johnsons, the most challenging part of their adoption journey was the wait time and not having control over what happened. They initially matched with a birth mother who was due in one week, but she changed her mind the day before the baby was born. However, despite their sadness about the last-minute change, that situation made them even more grateful for Mackenzie when she entered the world.
Additionally, Brian notes that his children, who are currently ages 18 and 24, were okay with the idea of adoption, but his daughter, Emma, was a little “hurt” at first. Yet, now, she absolutely adores her little sister.
When it comes to Mackenzie’s future, Noelle and Brian plan to be very open about her adoption story – she will always know that she was adopted. They are already talking to her about her birth parents (the Johnsons have a semi-open adoption), but plan to add more details as she gets older.
As an adoptive mother, Noelle encourages other adoptive families to “Trust in your journey and the system. It will happen – you just have to be patient.”
Additionally, she noted that birth mothers might feel like adoptive families are judging them for “giving up” their kid and that their kid might not be accepted. She wants birth mothers to know that is “ absolutely not the case at all – it is more respect than anything because of the choice you had to make.”
Adoption Story Note to Birth Mothers
Everyone’s adoption journey is different. However, we guarantee that somewhere out there, there is a loving family, just like the Johnsons, who is ready to welcome your baby with open arms. We hope that this story encourages you and provides a sense of peace as you review prospective adoptive parents for your baby.
If you have any questions or are ready to start your own adoption journey, please don’t hesitate to contact any of our Adoption Choices of Oklahoma staff members.
Adoption Choices of Oklahoma is a private adoption agency, licensed by the state of Oklahoma and leader in the adoption community. We have been assisting birth parents, children, and adoptive families in Oklahoma for over 19 years. Our staff members are committed to providing an ethical, empowering, and personalized adoption experience to all involved in the adoption process. If you are currently in the process of adopting a baby and have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact us.
Toll-free: 800-898-6028 | OKC Local: 405-755-1999 | Tulsa Local: 918-447-7777 | Text: 405-310-8790 | Email
Meet the Author: Grace Myers is a sophomore digital media major at North Greenville University. She loves writing and hopes to pursue a career in journalism or public relations after graduating.
An adoptee herself, Grace is passionate about writing for adoption. She especially loves hearing adoption stories and getting to know a variety of people.
