Our Journey of Love with Aniyah’s Biological Family
By Cristiana Amato
Building a family through adoption brings with it a journey that’s unique, sometimes complex, and always filled with love. One of the most beautiful aspects of our journey with Aniyah has been the relationship we’ve nurtured with her biological family, particularly her mother, Thomasiene. In fostering this bond, we’ve come to understand how important and healing it can be for all of us, especially for Aniyah.
From the beginning, we knew our journey would involve honoring Aniyah’s roots and building trust with her family. Thomasiene’s love for her daughter was immediately evident, and we wanted to ensure she would always feel a connection to her family of origin. We never saw ourselves as replacing her biological family; instead, we viewed our role as expanding the circle of love surrounding Aniyah. Over time, we’ve come to realize that this shared love gives Aniyah a deeper sense of belonging and connection.
Our relationship with Thomasiene and Aniyah’s family has grown through moments of openness, respect, and mutual care. When Aniyah’s adoption day finally arrived, some of her biological family joined us in celebrating this milestone. Their presence meant so much, making that day not only a celebration of her joining our family but a true coming together of both families who love her. Sharing that day was a reminder of how Aniyah connects us all.
Over the years, we’ve celebrated birthdays and Mother’s Day together, honoring both Thomasiene and myself. These gatherings are filled with laughter, love, and memories, with each of us appreciating the different roles we play in Aniyah’s life. Celebrating together has been a beautiful reminder to Aniyah that she is loved by many people, each in their own way.
For other adoptive families, I want to encourage you to keep an open heart toward biological families. I know every situation is different, and it may not always be possible or easy, but where there is potential, building a relationship with biological family can be a source of tremendous healing and love for everyone involved. Loving a child means embracing all of who they are, including the family they were born into. It’s not always a simple journey, but it is an incredibly worthwhile one.
Thomasiene and I stand together, each of us with a unique place in Aniyah’s life. Through patience, grace, and compassion, we have woven a beautiful relationship that is centered around the one thing that matters most: Aniyah’s well-being. I feel so grateful to be on this journey with her, knowing that Aniyah’s heart is held by a network of people who love her deeply.
Every adoption story is unique, and each relationship takes its own shape. But where there is an opportunity to embrace biological families with love and understanding, the results can be life-changing, not only for the child but for everyone involved. For us, this journey with Thomasiene and Aniyah’s family has been a reminder that love can grow in surprising and wonderful ways—and that family, however it’s built, is truly a beautiful thing.
