Live Episode from Minneapolis: Candi
S13, Ep. 2: Candi
Born in the Baby Scoop Era in 1969, Candi was adopted at five days old in a closed adoption. While loved by her adoptive family, adoption was rarely discussed beyond the narrative of being "chosen." She grew up with two older brothers who were biological to her parents, and a sister who was adopted 18 months after her.
When her adoptive mother passed away from cancer during Candi's junior year of high school, the profound grief overshadowed and masked the underlying trauma of her relinquishment. After several early search attempts, a 2017 DNA test finally helped her connect with her biological family, though in-person meetings were delayed for several years. Today, she cherishes the meaningful relationships she is building with her biological relatives and their families.
It was only two years ago that Candi finally learned the language to express how adoption has impacted her life. Discovering that there wasn’t something “wrong” with her but instead she was having normal reactions to what happened to her — was incredibly freeing. Since that breakthrough, Candi has immersed herself in adoptee-centered healing, education, and rights advocacy. Founding an in-person adoptee peer group and participating in community events have become the most transformative parts of her ongoing journey.
Professionally, Candi has worn many hats, working in various positions across different businesses throughout her career, although her favorite title is mom to her three children.
Season 13 Book: Who is a Worthy Mother? by Rebecca Wellington
Thank you to our Patreons! Join at the $10 level and be part of our monthly ADOPTEE CAFE community. The next meeting will be Saturday, October 10th at 1pm ET.
RESOURCES for Adoptees:
Adoptees who identify as queer gathering in community on Zoom: For details, email: leslieglick1120@gmail.com
Gregory Luce and Adoptee Rights Law
Fireside Adoptees Facebook Group
Dr. Liz Debetta: Migrating Toward Wholeness Movement
Moses Farrow - Trauma therapist and advocate
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – 1-800-273-8255 OR Dial or Text 988.
