Late Discovery Adoptees: A Panel Discussion by Adoptees United

Register now for the May 22, 2024 panel discussion about the experiences of late discovery adoptees, featuring Ron Morgan, Kris Rao, and Kathleen Kirstein.

Zoom link will be sent to you after you register online:
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

## Kris Rao

My life took an unexpected turn at 34. I had always identified as bi-racial, but a DNA test for fun revealed a surprising truth: I was 100% Indian. This explained a lot – hidden aspects of my past, certain experiences, and a lingering feeling of being different. The biggest shock, however, was learning I was adopted. This secret, kept for my entire life, shattered my sense of identity. It triggered a wave of grief and anger as I grappled with this unexpected deception.
Now, I’m on a journey of self-discovery. Fueled by a desire for truth, I’m seeking to reconnect with my roots and rebuild myself on a foundation of honesty.

## Kathleen Kirstein

Kathleen Shea Kirstein is a Late Discovery Adoptee and NPE (Non-Expected Parent Event). She is the mother of two sons, a retired Registered Nurse, and an illustrator of three children’s books with author D. Ann Hollon. She has two essays published in Severance Magazine: Dear Mother and Blown off Course. A third essay called Passport has been published in Anne Heffron’s book To Be Real with several other adoptee writers.