My name is Finding Susan, and my story is one of survival, resilience, and reclaiming identity. I was adopted as a mixed-race child into a white family, a process that was neither simple nor swift—it took 11 long years and was marked by coercion and systemic failures. What followed was a childhood shaped by profound challenges, including sexual, physical, and mental abuse. These experiences left deep scars, but they also ignited a determination within me to seek the truth and honor that courageous little girl.
Growing up, I faced not only the pain of abuse but also the isolation of being disconnected from my family, cultural roots and identity. The very system meant to protect me instead placed me in a situation that compounded my struggles. Yet, through it all, I have fought to reclaim my voice and my sense of self.
Today, I share my story not to dwell on the pain but to shed light on the realities of adoption, especially for those of us who navigate the complexities of race, identity, and trauma. “Adopted Echoes” is my space to explore these intersections, offering stories, reflections, and art that resonate with others who have walked similar paths. It is a testament to the strength that can emerge from even the darkest of experiences.
To anyone reading this who feels unseen or unheard, know that your story matters. Together, through understanding and connection, we can find the strength to heal and grow.
"Whispers of Nature, An Adoptee Echoes." 