A Time Capsule in a Trunk: Karen's Story S1E8

Janet Travis, a Search Angel and Genetic Genealogist, shares her personal story of a surprise connection for her half-brother through DNA testing. She explains how she asked her half-brother to test and was surprised to find a high match with a woman named Karen Smith. 

Janet reached out to Karen, who is an adoptee, and discovered that she was her half-brother's paternal half-sister. They connected and Janet's family was able to give Karen many details about her biological father.  

Then, Janet helped Karen find information about her birth mother. Janet searched for Karen's birth mother, Ruth, and eventually found a picture and a poem written by Ruth. Janet also received contact information for Nancy, a friend who had helped Ruth when she was sick.  Through Janet's efforts, Karen was able to connect with Ruth's friends and obtain a trunk filled with photos, awards, and personal belongings that belonged to Ruth. 

Karen and Janet organized a meeting with Karen's newfound siblings, creating a sense of completion and joy. Karen emphasizes the importance of taking the leap and embracing the journey of discovering one's biological family.