97. Sandi Smith: "What's In A Name?", "Who Are You Because You Were Adopted?" and "Lies and Losses"

Sandi Smith is a domestic, same-race adoptee moved across the country illegally at the age of 5 weeks.  She’s been in reunion with her maternal siblings for 27 years.  She’s been an only child, an oldest child, a youngest child, and recently found out she is once again an only child!  She has 5 older biological siblings and one younger adopted sister, along with a wonderful spouse, 3 children and 5 grandchildren. She has found answers to most of her adoption questions by luck, reunion, and DNA.

Sandi has always known about her adoption but only found out it was not handled legally when she received her records at the age of 42.  Born in Washington State but raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin she has been in reunion with her first family for more than 25 years.

Sandi is a professional sign language interpreter.  She has a BA in journalism and an MA in Theology (but actually studied in Spirituality).  She’s married to a great guy she lovingly calls her “Emotional Support Spouse” at adoptee events.  She has 3 adult children and 5 grandchildren. Writing, hiking and traveling are her favorite pastimes.

In March 2023, Sandi will be a panelist on https://www.adoptionmosaic.com/

Music by Corey Quinn and Invitationals by MDT