DNA test reveals truth about biological father.
Dear Amy: My husband and I decided to do a DNA test for fun.
It turns out that my father and I don’t share DNA.
I knew my mother had an affair back in the ’50s, but I thought the affair was after I was born.
We had a relationship with the other family; the husband and his wife were very dysfunctional alcoholics and I went through school with their kids.
Turns out this man was my biological father.
Needless to say, it has rocked my world and has broken my heart.
My mother is 97 and it wouldn’t surprise me if she doesn't know that my father wasn't my biological father. My parents seemed to have a solid marriage.
I would warn people about finding out about their DNA. I wish I hadn’t explored mine.
Through this DNA test site, I was contacted by my biological niece. I also have a half-sister. Amy, she used to babysit me!
Also I keep thinking — what if I had dated one of my own brothers?
I feel like I’m living in a soap opera. — DNA Regrets
The rise of athome DNA testing seems to be transforming human relationships in a way that reminds me of some of the relational changes brought about by the rise of the internet.
I think it is important for people considering using a test kit to try to prepare themselves for — or at least try to imagine — a worldrocking shock, such as you have received.
In your case, I hope you will find someone to talk to about this. A professional counselor could offer you support and a fresh perspective.
Dear Amy: Responding to the heartbreaking question from “Angry Father,” whose grief over his wife’s death was having a big impact on his relationship with his children.
Thank you for suggesting a grief support group. My daughter and I benefited from a series of “grief classes” offered through our local hospice.
They differ from support groups in that there is peer discussion, but emphasis is on teaching by grief specialist, processing one’s grief and use of learning materials. — PJ
Dear PJ: Hospice centers all over the country are helping to transform how we experience death, loss and grief.