Starting Ukraine Process

Louie · 12-18-2003, 11:55 AM

Well, we've already decided long ago that the Ukraine was our place and that we would definitely proceed if we had another m/c. We just had m/c #3, which came as no surprise because the pr was not healthy from the start. We are finally emotionally ready to start the process for adoption.

It's been a while since I researched this though and am wondering if anyone can update me on things. Last time I looked into it, adoption from Ukraine was running around $15K. Does anyone know if this seems right? We don't have much money so this is one reason we want Ukraine. Also, I recall that boys are more available than girls (which is fine for our needs) and that you may request a child under two but may have difficulty finding one. Is all of this still right?

Then, I recall reading a lot about "independent" adoption in Ukraine and that some people go through agencies while others hire a translater or lawyer and do it all themselves. Is it less expensive to do it independently? Has anyone here done that or does anyone know anything about it? Also, does it still onkly take about 6-8 months before you get to travel?

I assume that I have to start out by choosing an agency (I have one in mind already) and getting a homestudy. We have a kitchen rennovation going on... does that need to be finished before I get the homestudy? Will that hold things up for us? Also, my DH is thinking of switching jobs... should he stay put until this goes through?

Sorry for all the questions... Any info would be really helpful.

dna · 12-18-2003, 02:46 PM

Yay ! Another Ukrainian Angel getting a forever family

Congrats on your decision...unfortunately I dont know how much help I will be since you live in the US and I in Canada...

Do a search on Ukrainian Adoptions and look for the name Cathy Harris if you want to know about independant Ukraine adoptions...we cannot do that here in Ontario.

I know there is also a Yahoo! Group that I belong to that is primarily USA people and it keeps up to date on all the changes..

Boys are mostly available (I am lookin at one!) and they are available under 2, there are children coming off the registry everyday...You may just have to wait a day or 7 while in country...

I do not believe that renovating your kitchen is going to hold you up, not sure about the switching of jobs deal though you will have to check with your agency.

If you have any more questions
I am here

Amy

Lisa67 · 12-18-2003, 07:41 PM

Hi Louie,

I am sorry to hear of your loss but am so happy for you that you have a starting point now. I am sure that is somewhat of a relief (if that's the right word to use here) that you can move on to the path of adoption.

I don't know anything about the Ukranian process so I'm of no help there! When we started out in this process we looked into Wide Horizons For Children out of Waltham. They seemed great to work with, although we went with an agency that is strictly China.

I do want to give you one piece of advise in choosing an agency. I would try to choose one that is local, or at least within driving distance. I know through my China email groups that those people who are not close to their agencies have to wait to hand in papers or pay to have the fed ex'd when I can just make a quick drive to Brookline and be done with it! Just something to think about!

As for your homestudy--don't fret about the kitchen remodeling--I could almost guarantee that wouldn't be an issue. Talk to your agency about your husband's job once you are sure what's happening. They'd be able to advise you on whether they think the country would look favorable on him changing jobs or not.

Best of luck to you--you know I'm here when you need me!

(((((((((((HUGS))))))))))))))))

Louie · 12-18-2003, 10:29 PM

Thanks Lisa and Amy!

Lisa, I think that it was through your suggestion that I did focus in on WHFC as an agency and will probably go with them. I got stuff from them in the mail and they seem pretty good and within driving distance. You're absolutely right that it is somewhat of a relief to us. After 3 losses in a year's time, we are terribly burnt out and just SO looking forward to taking a cutie home with us from the Ukraine. All we want is a child to share our lives and love with... and adoption is such a wonderful way to do that. You must be so excited about your little one in China!

Amy, It's good to hear that there are enough boys under two still available. Idealy, I'd love to adopt a child between 1 and 2 years old, though I would definitely be open to slightly older boys as well. I've seen your photos of your little one and he is totally adorable! I cannot wait to go and find the child who is meant to be with us. It's going to be such an experience. I found the web site you mentioned and read up on the independent adoption. I feel a bit more comfortable with an agency, but will go independent if there is a huge savings. Will have to see what the agency charges.

Thanks again for your help!

skiboo · 12-18-2003, 10:56 PM

Louie: I am so sorry to hear about your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. We are glad to have you here with us on the adoption option and look forward to sharing your adoption journey over the next few months. It won't be long until your little one is home with you...

I know that our agency said that stability is important and showing a good job history is also important. We needed to have letters of reference from our employers for our homestudy... so I would double check with your home study agency before switching jobs... I dont think the kitchen renovation will be a problem.

Keep us updated...
(((((hugs))))))
Janie

Lisa2008 · 12-19-2003, 01:44 AM

sorry for your loss, it sounds like you are ready to make the step towards adoption. so congrats. im afraid i cant give advice on Ukraine adoption, but welcome!!!! i felt such a relief when we dicided to adopt as well, no more counting days. Now with such a little one i am really hoping i wont get pregnant. good luck, and keep us posted, lisa