Celebrities and other powerful people, in my opinion, contribute to raising awareness when they speak openly about specific topics and issues.
Two years after marrying in 2006, actress Mariska Hargitay — best known for her long-running stint as Detective Olivia Benson on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit — and her husband, actor Peter Hermann, welcomed their first child.
The actress was forty-two years old when August was born. However, her age didn’t bother her and she thought she had a son at the perfect time.
“Since August, everything has changed! She told the traveling mom earlier, ‘You know, I think everything in life means more because I’m a mom later in life.'” Every day is deeper and richer and more soulful.
A few years after August’s birth, August asked for siblings, and Mariska and Peter, who wanted to expand the family, decided to adopt. Eventually, they met a woman who thought that Mariska and Peter would be ideal parents and wanted to put her daughter up for adoption. The mother later changed her mind, but the couple was there when the baby was born.
Even though it was a terrible time, they never gave up and continued to communicate with their social worker and lawyer and trusted God.
Mariska and Peter were later introduced to another woman who was about to give birth to a child that she was unable to care for. This time everything went well and the couple adopted a beautiful baby named Amaya Josephine. The couple did not mind that the baby’s mother was black. In fact, Mariska stated, “We were excited to have a multiracial family because that’s the world and we want our family to reflect a realistic microcosm of the world.”
“I’m ecstatic,” Marika, who was 47 at the time, told People.
August was overjoyed to have a sister to play with. Mariska then commented: “He’s over the moon.” “He claims the whole thing was his idea and that’s why he refers to her as his child. He keeps promising to keep her safe. He’s going to be a fantastic big brother.”
The couple welcomed a second child into their family shortly after. When their lawyer called one day to check on Amaya, he said the baby boy was born two months early and needed a home. They took it as a sign when he told them the baby’s name was Andrew because they had unexpectedly lost a close friend named Andrew shortly before.
“It was obvious, and that’s about all I have to say. Let’s do it, Peter and I thought.” “I’m there,” she called out. It was like a miracle. Plus, I take that word seriously. I have never before made a major decision so quickly that two days were enough for the whole event.”
Mariska and Peter adopted baby Andrew six months after adopting their daughter.
Their family felt whole again.
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“The adoption process was quite difficult,” commented Mariska. “But god, it was worth the fight.
That this famous couple was able to provide a nurturing environment for their two children is so amazing.
Mariska Hargitay and Peter Hermann’s journey to parenthood is an inspiring testament to the power of love, resilience, and openness. By honestly sharing their adoption experiences, they not only normalize the complexities and emotional issues that can arise during the process but also showcase the beauty of creating a family through love rather than biology. Their decision to adopt a multiracial family that reflects the diversity of the world shows their belief in acceptance, inclusiveness, and raising their children with an understanding of diverse backgrounds and perspectives.
Furthermore, their perseverance in the face of sadness and uncertainty is a reminder of the importance of faith, patience, and hope. Despite the obstacles they faced, they trusted the process and eventually welcomed two beautiful children into their family. By sharing their story, Mariska and Peter shine a light on the joy and fulfillment that adoption can bring and encourage others who may be considering the same journey. Their journey is not only a celebration of family but also a powerful example of how love transcends all boundaries, making their story one of compassion, strength, and unity.