AboutPeter C. Winkler, CSW Expertise I have experience with adoption subsidy, the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children and variety of other adoption related matters. I hope that I can be helpful to those who are considering adoption or would like to adopt a child.
Experience I am a social worker with an MSW and I have over thirty years of experience in family and children's services. I have worked as Director of adoption services and of the Interstate Compact in a large state agency. I have also provided direct services to children and families in a preventive services program. I currently prepare adoption studies for those who are adopting domestically or internationally.
My best friend, who lives in Oregon, has fostered a little girl for more than 2 years. She got the child at 18 months old, and she will turn 4 in October. Final adoption papers with the state are scheduled to be signed in September.
My friend was diagnosed with 2nd stage breast cancer in May. She has undergone 2 surgeries, and has recieved 3 of 8 chemotherapy treatments. She has lost her hair, but besides ocassional fatigue or discomfort, she is doing quite well.
My question: My friend is terrified that her adoption caseworker will find out she's fighting cancer, and will remove the child from her home. I say this defies all logic and decency: my friends' prognosis is excellent, the child recieves outstanding love and care, and has also bonded completely with her adoptive father. Are there any precedences for this situation? And do you have any advice for my friend?
Thanks you in advance for both your time and any light you can shed on how this situation would be viewed from the adoption agency. Sincerely, Carol Graham
Answer Hi Carol-
I don't know the specific law/regulations that are in effect in Oregon. However, practically speaking, your friend will have to go through the legal adoption process with this child before the child can be adopted. That means the case will go to court and as part of the process your friend will have to have to submit a medical report to the judge. The court may not approve an adoption if there appears to be a significant chance of the cancer reoccuring. Perhaps, there is another family member or close friend who would be willing and able to adopt this child if things do turn bad for your friend. That would be something she should explore and present to the agency handling the case and the judge doing the adoption, if the adoption proceeds.
The adoption agency should be concerned that this child is in a good home where it is likely that she will remain until adulthood. Hopefully, the staff will recognize that your friend should remain part of this child's life even if adoption by her is not possible.
