Nicki’s Story

Nicki always wanted to be a mum. But after receiving treatment for breast cancer in 2019, she was advised not to have biological children.

So, she started researching adoption.

Nicki was unsure whether she could adopt as a single person. After attending a webinar and reading more information she realised being single was not a barrier to adoption.

When Nicki applied to adopt in 2022 while she was completing some radiotherapy. However, it was recommended that she finish the treatment before starting the adoption process.

Nicki waited and took some time for her body to recover before returning to AiM.

“The process was in-depth and it was like having therapy. Everything was explored from my childhood through to previous relationships. I found the process enjoyable as I enjoy talking!

I was a little worried about being a single parent, but I have so much support around me. I have plenty of colleagues and family so I knew I had support if I needed it.

The training was useful and I learnt so much. I was able to hear from adopters first-hand and speak to other people going through the journey and gain valuable peer support.

My social worker was great, she was there for me whenever I needed her or had any questions. I felt very well supported and I still keep in touch with my social worker to update her on my daughter’s progress.

During the matching process, I was aware of my daughter’s health needs and it didn’t put me off. I knew I could handle them, and this was discussed with my social worker as well.

As my daughter developed, I started to notice some traits of autism. We are waiting for a formal diagnosis but In the meantime, I have support through work and family. My sister’s son has autism so I know how to manage the behaviour as best I can.

We keep in touch with my daughter’s birth mum and siblings through letters. Contact is so important for a child and it’s something all adopters have to do if its in the child’s plan.

The best part of the process was meeting my daughter for the first time, her smile was infectious, and our bond is stronger than ever. She hasn’t had the best start in life and knowing that I can support her and help her makes the process all worth it.”