I will be as brief as possible..Basically I am unable to have children so when my married sister got pregnant, we agreed that my husband and I would adopt the baby. She wanted the baby too but knew how badly I wanted to be a mommy!! My son is 2 1/2 months old now and I’m just wondering how and when I will tell him that his Aunt and Uncle are really his birth parents? They are still in his life, but he will know them as Aunt and Uncle….I’m thinking the earlier the better so he will grow up with it being "normal" to him. I think if I wait too long he will be upset and take it harder…Looking forward to some advice from experienced adoptive parents. Many thanks!

I ask this question because I am an adoptive mother whose child has a genetic disorder that we would not have known about had the state he was born in not done expanded Newborn Screening at birth. Our son was diagnosed with MCAD a fatty oxidation disorder that left undiagnosed could have been fatal. However, since we learned of the disorder at birth, we have been able to successfully manage the disorder the past 4 years. I am concerned that since not all states test for these disorders, and often times, the decision to have the test is left to the biological mother, that adoptive parents are not getting all of the medical info about their children that they should have. I am not trying to discourage anyone from adopting! Just want to make sure everyone knows about NBS in an effort to protect our children. As adoptive parents we have a responsibility to keep our children safe & healthy and NBS can help us to do that. Hugs to all!
For those who are interested – MCAD is a fatty oxidation disorder. My son lacks an enzyme that allows him to turn stored fat into energy so anytime that he fasts or is ill, there is an increased risk of complications or organ failure. It is truly manageable for us. However, it can be very serious in times of crisis. If you are interested in learning more, please check out www.fodsupport.org.
As an FYI – contrary to belief – not ALL states test for these disorders. So even though you "think" your child may have been tested, you should make sure.