Mariska Hargitay Opens Up About The Difficulty Of Adopting

Adoption was not an easy road for Law & Order: SVU star Mariska Hargitay.
Within a span of six months last year, the actress and hubby Peter Hermann adopted two children, a daughter Amaya Josephine, now 13 months old, and their son Andrew Nichols, who is 9 months old.
Even though she now has two additional bouncing bundles of joy (she also has a 5 1/2 year old biological son August), Mariska opens up to Good Housekeeping about how difficult the process was.
Starting the adoption process about two years ago, they experienced a couple of failed attempts. Finally, Mariska and Peter met a woman and eventually, adoption plans were finalized.
After being present in the delivery room, naming the newborn, and even parenting her for two days, the birth mother changed her mind, forcing Mariska and Peter to give the baby back.
Mariska says:

“It was nothing short of devastating, but ├óΓé¼┬ª it was probably the greatest, happiest ending. I mean, it was so painful for us, but it was deeply joyful and deeply right for her.”

She still keeps up with the woman and even though she hasn’t seen the baby, she is “forever connected with her.”
And looks like things worked out for everyone because Mariska then met another woman who eventually gave her Amaya.

“I basically pulled Amaya out. Peter and I held her, and then the birth mother and I hugged for a long time. That was profound. That was one of the most meaningful moments I├óΓé¼Γäóve ever had in my life.”

And fate kicked in again. About six months later, they got word that a premature baby boy was waiting to be adopted.
Mariska reveals:

“It was a no-brainer. It was like ├óΓé¼┬ª a miracle. And I don├óΓé¼Γäót use that word lightly. I├óΓé¼Γäóve never made a bigger decision so quickly.
Adoption was a bumpy ride ├óΓé¼ΓÇ¥ very bumpy. But, God, was it worth the fight.”

Many parents can certainly relate to Mariska’s story, but that should in no way deter anyone from adopting. Sure, it requires patience, but it’s all worth it in the end.
Just look at the happy pics of Mariska and her baybays (below) to see how much joy adoption can bring to families!
[Image via Good Houskeeping.]