Thank you
Thank you for spending time learning about me. I am grateful that you are considering me to parent your child. I know the decision you are making comes from a place of immense love, courage and strength. I admire and respect your selflessness and wish you peace and serenity as you navigate this process.
About Me
My name is Brandie. I am an optimistic, caring and energetic individual, shaped by the remarkable women in my life — my mother, my grandmothers and my aunts. From them, I learned the importance of education, service, faith, leadership and kindness. Sharing and showing kindness were a natural part of my upbringing; no one ever arrived at our home near dinnertime without being invited to join.
My life’s events have not only strengthened my faith but also fueled my dream of becoming a mother. The joy and love I feel when playing with my godchildren, nieces and little cousins have deepened my desire to parent a child and share the world through their eyes.
My Story
I recently transitioned from a 20-year career leading human and social services in local government to the non-profit sector as a chief operating officer/executive vice president to have more work-life balance. I leave work by 5 p.m. so that I can come home, cook, work out or ride my bike. Healthy living is an important part of my lifestyle, and I plan to share that with my child.
Nurturing my relationships with friends and family is key for me and I like to have fun. I enjoy activities that bring us together like attending outdoor concerts, going out to eat, hosting get togethers, or checking out city attractions.
Adoption In My Life
I chose adoption to build my family because I knew I wanted to be a mom and I saw how it had worked well for my dad and our family. My dad, Mario, was adopted. Growing up having two grandfathers on my dad’s side was normal and I didn’t know the difference because both of my grandfathers’ were in our lives. My grandfathers and their families treated me with love and celebrated me. This family structure has given me twice as many relatives to know and love.
My Family and My Home
My mom is one of eight children, so we have a big extended family that spans from Chicago to Los Angeles and Belize. I travel to Belize annually as many of our relatives, including my aunts, still live there. Having Belizean roots is special to me. I love the food, the music and the people. I hope to share my Belizean culture with my future child.
I live in a condo in the South Loop, just outside of downtown Chicago. My building has a lot of families with small children, so there are many kid-friendly events and activities to encourage community, including story time, game nights and holiday parties for kids. I can walk to Grant Park and the Museum Campus from my home. I enjoy gardening and watching the sun set from my balcony.
I am grateful for this opportunity to connect with you and send you my sincere appreciation.
