Using DNA to Search for Relatives

Using DNA to Search for Relatives

by | May 5, 2025 | News, Resources

In recent years, there has been an explosion in the use of DNA testing. In this article reproduced from the May 2019 edition of VANISH VOICE, we share a bit more about DNA testing and some considerations if you are thinking of using this in your search.  Introduction...
My experience: A mother’s story

My experience: A mother’s story

by | Sep 7, 2023 | Personal Stories, Resources

First came a friend request on Facebook. Just another ‘I don’t even know you’ moment like so many others so I just ignored it. About a week later the postie was knocking on my door with a registered letter. My mind started racing, was this good news...
Never say never: How I met my mother

Never say never: How I met my mother

by | Sep 7, 2023 | Personal Stories, Resources

I first found out I was adopted at about the age of 30, when Mum and Dad were compelled to tell me by circumstance. Hence, I didn’t feel I could pursue my original birth story until both had passed away. It was the mid-1990s when I found the good people at VANISH, who...
The Last Goodbye

The Last Goodbye

by | Sep 7, 2023 | Personal Stories, Resources

This contribution came from a VANISH member (adoptee) who wanted to find a meaningful way to acknowledge the death of her mother. There are no recognised ceremonies or rituals in the adoption community to help us with our familial losses.  — The gathering was held in...
Mark’s Story

Mark’s Story

by | Sep 7, 2023 | Personal Stories, Resources

I was born in 1963 and adopted six weeks later.  At the age of six, I was told I was adopted and to me it didn’t really matter at the time as I was so young.  As I went through school and other kids found out I was adopted I suffered deep humiliation and embarrassment...