Appeal Filed

The title says it all...I found out from my worker that birth dad has filed an appeal to the TPR (termination of parental rights) decision.  This really doesn't change anything...it just drags out the adoption process even longer.  I have been told to expect it to take up to twelve months.

I am torn.  I expected birth dad to file an appeal, and in fact, if he hadn't perhaps I would have been a little disappointed because it would have shown that he gives up easily.  After all he has fought little steps along the way...why wouldn't he fight this big decision?  Also if I were in his shoes, most definitely, I would appeal that decision.  However, the fact remains that I would never find myself in his shoes because my life is not involved in the all the same addicting behaviors as his.  That is probably not fair to say...after all there are mental health issues at play too, so not everything is within his control, but if the other addictions were not so important in his life, he could probably manage the mental health and be capable of raising his son...or at least he might have a healthy support system that could aid him in the care of his child.  Truth be told, he doesn't have that available to him otherwise Sam would be there instead of here.

On the other hand, I want Sam to be a legal member of our family.  He is already a member in every other way.  There is something wonderful about your children having your family name (last name).  I want to be able to have Sam dedicated at church.  Not only that, but it would be wonderful to add him to our health insurance because, in my opinion, the quality of care varies drastically between private and state insurance...I noticed this with James as well. 

I am glad I will be able to tell Sam that his birth dad fought for him...I imagine that must be some comfort to Sam as he gets older.  At the same time, I imagine that raises lots of questions too.  All I can do is pray for wisdom and hope I am able to offer what Sam needs as he journeys through his life and makes his own decisions.