Laurie Burdette

Creative Statement

Beginning March, 1999, found out almost immediately I wasn't going to be able to 'naturally' conceive. Went through three IVF trys, to no avail, and about one month after the last try, I landed in the hospital with Peritonitis all over my internal organs. (Kudos IVF place - to remain unnamed) it literally, nearly killed me, and thanks to my GYN and her husband, who is an amazing general surgeon, they saved my life! It was very quickly decided that adoption was going to be how to complete my family.

We had decided (after much much research) to adopt from Ukraine. Process began June 2000, travelled April 2001. We found an amazing 4 year old boy, who was in fact so malnourished he was literally the size of a two year old. After spending 17 days in Ukraine, 3 in Warsaw, Poland to obtain his VISA, and a couple others (Vienna, Austria- Prague, Czech Republic) we travelled home with Andrew.

A year later we wanted to do it again, called the attorney and let him know. Two weeks later we received the best call ever, there was an infant available, and better yet- RIGHT HERE! (Just so we are clear, this RARELY happens this quickly, there is other information not really necessary to discuss.)

It's been 10 fun loving, full time years that I wouldn't have had any other way! Although I'm no longer with their dad, he's still very much a part of our lives (and we're better friends now than then! Great for the kids!)

We both remarried and live very, very close together. We also both get along well with each other's current spouse.

Both boys are honor roll students, and very active!

Anyone interested in, thinking about and/ or executing a plan to adopt abroad, contact me- I'm MORE than willing to help!