In the short time that we have been telling friends and family about our adoption, I have been asked this question a lot. It's a fair question. For many, our adoption announcement has caught them completely off guard. For those close to us in our life's journey, they have heard us mention adoption before. But, why Ethiopia?
I wish I had a perfect answer that would clear this question up for everyone, but I don't. All I can say is that we were drawn to Ehiopia, and God's hand was and is in this whole thing. In our research we can across a lot of staggering statistics about the country of Ethiopia and the children, such as:
- Ethiopia has a population of nearly 75 million, and in this country about twice the size of Texas, there are an estimated 4.6 million orphans.
- The children are primarily orphaned due to poverty, and 1 in 10 children die before their 1st birthday.
- 58% of Ethiopians are illiterate, and about half of the nation’s children will never attend school.
- There is 1 doctor for every 24,000 children. Sources for facts: The World Factbook, 2010
Jackie, I am so glad you're doing this blog--I will love following it. I went to BRWP end-of-session lunch last Friday, and saw Sara and Anita--wish you'd been there. And I remember seeing you two with your Little Brother down at the Roanoke Market last fall or so. You will be wonderful parents. Best to you both.
ReplyDeleteWe'll have to catch up soon! Thanks for the encouragement!
DeleteThanks so much for the encouragement!
ReplyDeleteMy sister Renee Tiedemann told me about your adoption. First of all congrats. Secondly my husband and I are currently on the waiting list for Ethiopia. If you would to chat or have any questions I would be more then willing to try and help. Again congrats on your journey. You can email me at teed24@yahoo.com
ReplyDeleteErika Moore