Stories and Interesting Tales

Adoption, DNA, Genetic Genealogy

Forced Adoption

DNA Mel

Couple Holding Hands of Child

Forced Adoption in Australia: Unraveling the Past with DNA

Forced adoption in Australia, a practice that reached its peak during the mid-20th century, left countless families torn apart and countless individuals searching for their roots. As a genetic genealogist, I have witnessed firsthand the profound impact DNA testing can have in reuniting families and providing answers to those affected by this tragic part of our history.

The History of Forced Adoption in Australia

Between the 1950s and 1980s, it is estimated that around 150,000 babies were forcibly taken from their mothers and placed for adoption in Australia. Often, these adoptions occurred without the consent of the birth mothers, many of whom were young, unmarried, and under significant pressure from social services, medical professionals, and even their own families. The practices surrounding these adoptions were often unethical and left deep emotional scars on all parties involved.

The Emotional Toll

The forced adoption practices have had long-lasting effects on both the adoptees and the birth parents. Many adoptees have grown up with a sense of loss and identity confusion, while birth mothers have often experienced lifelong grief and guilt. The secrecy and shame associated with these adoptions have made it challenging for many to seek out their biological families or even acknowledge their feelings.

How DNA Testing Can Help

In recent years, advancements in DNA testing have provided a powerful tool for those affected by forced adoption. Through genetic genealogy, it is now possible to uncover familial connections that were once thought lost forever. Here’s how I can assist individuals affected by forced adoption:

  1. DNA Testing and Analysis: By taking a simple DNA test, individuals can discover genetic matches with relatives they never knew they had. These matches can range from close family members to distant cousins, providing valuable clues in the search for biological family.

  2. Building Family Trees: Using the information from DNA tests, I help clients construct detailed family trees. This process involves piecing together data from genetic matches, historical records, and personal stories to create a comprehensive picture of their ancestry.

  3. Providing Emotional Support: The journey of uncovering one’s biological roots can be overwhelming. I offer support and referrals throughout the process, helping clients navigate the complex emotions that often arise.

Real Stories of Reconnection

While each case is unique, the joy of reuniting families is a common theme. One client, Sarah*, discovered her biological mother through a DNA match. The reunion allowed them to fill the void left by decades of separation, and today, they are building a meaningful relationship. Another client, Michael*, found siblings he never knew he had, providing him with a sense of family and identity he had longed for.

Conclusion

Forced adoption is a painful chapter in Australia’s history, but through the power of DNA testing and genetic genealogy, healing and reconnection are possible. At The DNA Connection, I am dedicated to helping those affected by forced adoption find their biological families and understand their heritage. If you or someone you know is seeking answers, I invite you to reach out and begin this transformative journey.

*Names have been changed to protect the privacy of individuals.

DNA, Genetic Genealogy

Beginner tips to start your DNA Journey

DNA Mel

Embarking on a journey to uncover your genetic heritage is an exciting and rewarding endeavour. Whether you’re seeking to connect with long-lost relatives or trace your ancestry, genetic genealogy provides powerful tools to help you along the way. Here are some beginner tips to get you started on your DNA journey.

1. Understand the Basics of DNA Testing

Before diving into genetic genealogy, it’s essential to understand the basics of DNA testing. There are three main types of DNA tests used in genealogy:

  • Autosomal DNA (atDNA): This test is the most common and analyses your autosomes, which are the non-sex chromosomes inherited from both parents. It provides information about your overall ancestry and can help you find relatives within the last five to seven generations.
  • Y-DNA: This test examines the Y chromosome, which is passed down from father to son. It’s useful for tracing direct paternal lines and can help you connect with relatives on your father’s side.
  • mtDNA: This test analyses mitochondrial DNA, which is passed down from mother to child. It helps trace direct maternal lines and can connect you with relatives on your mother’s side.

2. Choose the Right DNA Testing Company

Selecting the right DNA testing company is crucial. Some popular options include AncestryDNA, 23andMe, MyHeritage, and FamilyTreeDNA. Each company offers unique features, databases, and tools, so consider what is most important for your research before making a choice. Ancestry is the preferred testing company for The DNA Connection as it has the largest database of matches. 

3. Analyse Your Results

Once you receive your DNA results, take time to explore and understand them. Most companies provide a list of DNA matches, ethnicity estimates, and sometimes even health information. Review your matches, and reach out to those who share significant amounts of DNA with you. Collaboration with these matches can help you piece together your family history.

4. Build Your Family Tree

Creating a family tree is a foundational step in genetic genealogy. Start with what you know—your immediate family—and gradually add information about your ancestors. Use online platforms like Ancestry.com, MyHeritage, or FamilySearch to build and expand your tree.

5. Leverage Online Resources and Communities

The genetic genealogy community is vast and supportive. Join online forums, social media groups, and attend webinars to learn from experienced genealogists. Websites like WikiTree, GEDmatch, and DNA Painter offer valuable tools and resources to aid your research.

Facebook Groups like Using DNA for Genealogy – Australia & NZ are very helpful. 

6. Be Patient and Persistent

Genetic genealogy is a journey that requires patience and persistence. Sometimes, breakthroughs happen quickly, while other times, it may take months or even years to uncover significant information. Stay motivated and continue learning as you go.

Genealogy

Using the Power of Census Records

DNA Mel

When diving into the world of genetic genealogy, one might think that Australia’s sparse historical census records might be a stumbling block. However, even with the limited availability, census records can still offer a treasure trove of information that can greatly benefit genealogists. At The DNA Connection, we believe that every piece of data, no matter how small, can be pivotal in piecing together family histories.

The Australian Census: A Brief Overview

Unlike the UK or the USA, Australia has not maintained comprehensive, name-specific census records over the centuries. Most of our census data, particularly from the 19th and early 20th centuries, has been destroyed due to privacy laws and storage policies. Read more here. However, the few surviving fragments can still provide valuable insights. For instance, the 1841 census in New South Wales (Available from the NSW State Archives) https://mhnsw.au/collections/state-archives-collection/ and some electoral rolls serve as partial substitutes, offering glimpses into our ancestors’ lives.

Example of an 1841 Census
Example of a 1841 Census from Scotland.

Extracting Value from Limited Data

As a genetic genealogist, I have learned to maximise the value of the data available. Here’s how census records, even the limited ones in Australia, can aid in the genetic genealogy journey:

  1. Contextual Clues: Census and electoral roll records, even fragmentary, provide contextual clues about an ancestor’s life. They can reveal information about household compositions, occupations, and residential patterns. This context is invaluable when cross-referencing DNA matches and constructing family trees.

  2. Cross-Referencing with DNA Data: By combining census records with DNA testing results, we can corroborate relationships and verify family connections. For instance, if a DNA match traces back to a particular region in Australia, newspaper and birth, death and marriage records can help pinpoint exact locations, strengthening the connection.

  3. Filling in the Gaps: While Australian census records might be sparse, other records like electoral rolls, directories, and even immigration records can fill in the gaps. These records, when used in conjunction with census data, provide a fuller picture of an ancestor’s life.

  4. Supporting Stories with Facts: Census, Birth, death and marriage records and newspaper articles help ground the stories we uncover through genetic genealogy. They add a layer of factual evidence to the narratives we build, making the genealogical journey more robust and credible.

Embracing the Challenge

As a genetic genealogist, the scarcity of certain records in Australia can indeed pose a challenge. However, it’s a challenge we embrace at The DNA Connection. Each piece of data, no matter how seemingly insignificant, is a step closer to uncovering the rich tapestry of our clients’ family histories.

By blending traditional research methods with modern DNA technology, we turn every available resource into a powerful tool for discovery. So, while Australia’s census records might be limited, their value in the realm of genetic genealogy is immeasurable.

Conclusion

At The DNA Connection, we believe that every ancestral clue holds the promise of discovery. By creatively utilising available census records, we continue to build meaningful connections and uncover the hidden stories of Australian families. Whether you’re just beginning your genealogy journey or looking to delve deeper, remember that every record, no matter how small, is a vital part of your family’s history. Let’s embrace the journey together, one record at a time.

DNA, Genetic Genealogy

DNA Testing Basics

DNA Mel

DNA Testing Basics

DNA Helix

DNA testing is a powerful tool for uncovering your ancestry and finding relatives.

It offers an incredible journey into your past, revealing the roots and branches of your family tree that you might never have discovered otherwise. 

Currently over 25 Million people have taken a DNA test at Ancestry.com which is the main reason that I recommend their DNA test as the first DNA test which to take. 

How DNA Testing Works 

When you do a DNA test, you send a small sample of your saliva (spit) to a lab. Scientists look at your DNA, which is like a code inside your cells that makes you who you are. They compare your DNA to other people’s DNA to find out where your ancestors came from and if you have any relatives you don’t know about

What You Can Learn

  1. Where Your Family Comes From: Find out which parts of the world your ancestors came from. Ancestry.com shows you a map with the regions your family is connected to.

  2. Find New Relatives: Discover cousins and other family members. Ancestry.com has a huge database, so you might find people you didn’t know were related to you.

  3. Learn About Your Ancestors: Ancestry.com also has lots of old records, like birth certificates and immigration papers. These can tell you more about your ancestors’ lives.

The DNA Connection specifically works on your DNA Match data to work out the relationships to you.

Conclusion

DNA testing is a fun and interesting way to learn about your family history.

The DNA Connection can help you discover where your ancestors came from, find new relatives, and learn about your family’s past. If you’re curious about your heritage, reach out to us and start your journey today!

 

Great stories

Bliss 16/30

DNA Mel

Bliss for me is getting a facial or a massage.

Bliss is finding a birth parent

Bliss is waking up to a new DNA Match

Bliss is walking along the beach

Bliss is laughing with friends

Bliss is being down the river fishing with my family

Bliss is singing at the top of my lungs

Bliss is coffee in the morning

Bliss is having flowers in my house

Bliss is sewing, creating or making things 

Bliss is helping someone out

Bliss is, and can be so many things, What does Bliss look like for you?

Great stories

Guide Them 15/30

DNA Mel

What is it like to work with me? 

This is a tough question for me to answer as each of my clients has had different reasons for reaching out to work with me.

So let me explain it broadly.

I start with a session one on one getting your story and working together to work out what you are searching for, what your research goals are and ideally what you want to know.

I then, work backwards and look at what research you have already started, what DNA tests have you already taken and what do you already know about your family.

From there we work out a plan to move forward and what the steps will be and move on from there.

Sometimes I will take time to review DNA Results, research family trees and suggest getting further information.

I am super adaptable and happy to guide and advise where I can and I will be honest if I don’t know something and will refer out to other providers if I feel that this is needed.

Being a health professional, I am aware of the issues of confidentiality and at times this is of upmost importance especially in adoption and unknown parentage cases. I am guided by you.

Emotional support along the journey is provided. Feelings and emotions pop up; both positive and negative along the journey. Please share this with me and I will provide support to you.

I look forward to working with a variety of clients, With each case, I learn more and each case has been challenging at times emotionally for me too. But this is how we all grow. 

I hope this has given you a rough idea of what is it like to work with me. Please reach out to me if you want to know more. 

Great stories

Quick Hack 14/30

DNA Mel

I love to be able to share with others when they are learning where they come from. I have some quick hacks that will get your started

Are you interested in learning more about your past? Are you interested in knowing where you come from? Would you like to be connected to your ancestors? 

Sometimes knowing where to start can be a challenge.

Below are some of my Quick Hacks that may get you started on your journey. 

1. Order a DNA Ancestry Test – Results will take 6-8 weeks to come back to you so you want to get this done first so you can be working on other things while waiting for your results to come back. Order your kit from here – Ancestry 

2. Start a family tree on Ancestry. You can create a family tree online for free without having a membership. Start with yourself and work backwards. Add in Birth Dates, Death Dates and Locations if you know them. Work on both sides of the tree

3. Speak to family members and ask them to share what they know. Is there someone in the family whom has already started a family tree. Is there a family member who holds records or photos. Could you put a post on social media and ask your family to share?

4. Interview your oldest family member – how nice is it to have a voice recording of your loved ones to pass down the generations. Consider DNA testing them too.

5. Research online and in local family history libraries to see what information about your family.

6. Consider joining a Family History Group – Sharing of knowledge and learning from others can be very helpful. I have made some great friends at my local history group. 

7. Ask lots of questions – be curious and write down the answers.

8. Have FUN!! There are some great stories and information out there waiting for you to discover

I look forward to hearing what you find and would love you to share with me what you find!

Great stories

My Favorite Human 13/30

DNA Mel

Meet my favourite human – My Fiancee Jay

We met online and have been hanging out together ever since. He must think I’m ok too as he asked me to marry him in August last year. 

While Covid has thrown Wedding plans – Im sure we will get planning again once things settle down.

Jay is calm and reassuring, but knows how to press my buttons and get me stirred up and motivated.

We share some common values of travel and adventures but he is a great photographer in his own right.

He was definately worth the wait and is my favorite human.  

 

Great stories

Action 12/30

DNA Mel

Time to take some action – Time is slipping away…

You may not be ready to take the leap and do a DNA test just yet but what about starting to record your family tree?

It is free to put a tree on Ancestry, you dont need a membership. Start with yourself and work backwards. Add your parents and grandparents and so on.

You could start by talking to your oldest living relative, ask them to identify people in photographs, ask them what they remember about their grandparents. Record their stories. 

There may be a family member who has started a family tree already. 

I’m happy to help with a chat to get you going or you may be interested in my research packages.

I am happy to do general genealogical research without DNA if that is what you are interested in. 

Drop me an email mel@thednaconnection.com.au I would love to hear from you. 

Great stories

Inspire 11/30

DNA Mel

What inspires me?

I love finding the stories behind the names and the photos. I love being inspired to connect the past to the future. 

Take this photo that Mum sent to me the other day, we know that this is our family and that there are photos of my ancestors in it but we dont know which ones they are. 

There are no inscriptions or names on the back, we have a rough idea who the groom is but thats it. It would be great if someone else in the family has the same photo and could solve the puzzle. 

I get just as much excitement finding stories for others as I do myself. I get just as excited with the stories and bringing people alive.

There has been times when I have been uninspired with my research, I may have hit a brick wall or got stuck on a family line. I have been frustrated with not knowing where to search or whom could help me. 

How can we move past being uninspired?

Some tips which may help:

  • Share the problem with a friend – Speak to a fellow researcher, join a local family history group
  • Reach out to libraries or local history groups, send an email and share your research problem maybe they have the missing part you need.
  • Message boards while are becoming a little less in vogue, searching through past messages or adding a new message may help
  • Facebook groups – search and join and ask your questions.
  • Learn more – This might be reading a book or searching online. It may be a course or webinar. 

What other tips have you found that have got you going when your feeling uninspired?

 

Great stories

Fave Food 9/30

DNA Mel

Cadbury Pineapple Chocolate is my fave food. I cant resist the squishy sloppy mess. Living in Queensland it has to be eaten directly from the fridge so that there is a hard crunch as you bite into the sticky pineapple awesomeness. Its not assisting with my weight loss journey but it is certainly adding to the happiness and greatfulness journey.

I get super sad when I cant find it on the shelf at the supermarket. But I get super happy when its on special.

I have tried alternatives, like the pineapple lumps bit the pineapple remains superior.

Am I solo in this love? 

#contentology #day9 #favefood #cadbury #squishystickyyum

Great stories

Overwhelmed 8/30

DNA Mel

Missing family members or unknown parents can be overwhelming. Not knowing where to start to find out can be crippling.

Who can help? Is it worth searching? What if it all happened for a reason? 

All these feelings can be overwhelming and the feeling of doing it all on your own and at times in secret, can be a challenge.

There can be family secrets where discretion and confidentiality are paramount.

DNA Testing can be overwhelming too – What do I do with my results? I didnt get the matches that I expected? What do I do now?

This is where hiring an genetic genealogist may help. We can work with you to find your way or do the research for you.

Dont feel overwhelmed, we can help. 

Great stories

Money 7/30

DNA Mel

Money – An interesting topic in which to write about

Money is the exchange of value. It can be payment for assistance, transfer of knowledge, use of skills or doing tasks for others.

Its delivery of service, helping each other out. Rewarding knowledge and skills. Paying for items or services. 

Is what we are willing to pay different when it relates to our values? I think when I value something more, I will work harder to get it or pay more if I can see it as more valuable.

Is what you spend your money on a reflection of your values?

I hate to think how much money I have spent on learning, creativity and travel……and birth, death and marriage certificates and DNA kits 🙂

If you want to trade some of your money for value – check out my research packages

#contentology #day7 #money

Great stories

Self Care 6/30

DNA Mel

Self care can look so many ways. Today I will share with you just two of the ways I care for me. 

I love Kikki K and all that that shop has inspires me to be organised and creative. I loved the Cairns Store and spent weekends going to all of the workshops and have sad since the store closed. 

After reading Kristina’s Book “Your Dream Life Starts Here” I found that many things in my life were different. This book encourages you to dream and to consider what life would be like if there were no limits. This is where the dream of The DNA Connection began. 

Each morning I now spend what I call “The Power Hour” dreaming, learning or reading. Its my hour over my coffee just for me. It was the time that I worked though the book and journal. 

My second self love is getting my nails done. I love just sitting and being pampered. My chewed nails get to look girly and pretty. 

What do you do for Self Love? Drop me a message 

#contentology #day6 #selflove