It’s no secret that adoptions can bring about some seriously emotionally-charged situations, especially when it comes time for the adoptive parents to meet their new child. And, although most of these stories are inspirational, every once in a while, we hear about one that completely defies belief.
Take today’s tale, for instance. Last year, a Florida mother was set to hand her newborn, Abigail Lynn, over to her baby’s adoptive mother, when the unimaginable happened; the unnamed adoptee took a look at the baby’s face and hightailed it out of the hospital, leaving the infant without the home that had been secured for her.
In an interview with PEOPLE, Abigail Lynn’s biological mom, Christina Fisher, explains what went down that fateful day. “I let [the adoptive mom] take the other wristband into the NICU. She came out crying and left the hospital. We never heard from her again,” the 36-year-old said.
While Christina can never be entirely sure of what happened with the adoptive mom, she is fairly certain that it has something to do with little Abigail Lynn’s appearance. You see, the baby was born with Treacher Collins syndrome, a genetic condition that affects the growth of the cheekbones, jaw, and chin.
Although the symptoms may appear to be serious, it’s important to note that most of those who have been born with Treacher Collins have gone on to live completely ordinary lives. The condition has no bearing on intelligence and—unless the case is very severe—individuals have a similar life expectancy to the rest of the population.
With that said, it’s clear that the woman who was set to have been Abigail Lynn’s legal mother, just couldn’t get past the fact that her child would look different than most of her peers.
When Christina learned the news of the would-be adoptee’s departure, she knew she had to step up to the plate. “I’m not a religious person at all, but I know when something is smacking me in the face,” the mom says. “I just knew I would never be able to give her up. I would always be wondering if they were taking care of her properly.”
The Florida woman originally decided to go the route of adoption because—simply put—she had the odds stacked against her; the father was not in the picture and she was facing homelessness and financial uncertainty.
But, with this little angel now in her life, Christina has been able to secure a job and even a place for the two to live. Talk about a great, momma!
How one man thrives with Treacher Collins
33-year-old Jono Lancaster may be the world’s most famous example of how one can not only survive, but thrive with Treacher Collins syndrome. The Brit first gained international fame after appearing in a BBC television documentary called “Love Me, Love My Face.”
Since then, the man has dedicated his time to spreading awareness of Treacher Collins, and has even won several awards for his mentoring. Way to go, Jono!
Now that you know just how great Abigail Lynn’s life can be with Treacher Collins, it’s time for you to learn more about her incredible journey. Watch Inside Edition’s video below to see gorgeous pictures of both mom and beautiful baby girl!
We’d love to hear your take on this remarkable story. Do you or someone you know have Treacher Collins? If so, what has life been like with the syndrome? Are you aware of any other failed adoption stories?