Adopted Teens Find Help In Support Group

Mon., Nov. 23, 1998

Erin Johnson Lewis & Clark

Being a teenager is hard enough. It gets even more complicated when you’re adopted. And when you are biracial, it gets even more difficult.

This isn’t an easy world to grow up in and everyone has his or her problems and obstacles, but when you are a teenager, you are supposed to be enjoying life, not struggling to survive.

Fitting into a group is a big deal. If we don’t fit in, we feel lost and insecure.

This article is about being adopted and having a place where you can fit in and be understood. At the Children’s Home Society in Spokane, there is a group that meets once a month and provides support for adopted teens who are having trouble finding themselves.

The director, Suzanne Apelskog, is adopted herself and wants to help adopted teenagers. She’ll even help you find your biological parents or family, if you wish.

For me, the Children’s Home Society has been a place where I can go and speak freely about my life experiences and how being adopted affects me. I have made friends with all of the group members and a lot of adopted teens in the community through this group.

The group has provided me with an understanding about adoption procedures and how to contact agencies. The group is looking to reach more teenagers.

If you’re adopted or know someone who is and would like more information, call Apelskog at 747-4174.

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