Friday, April 12, 2013

[Global] - Donor Connections - Matching Donors & their Children

I have just become aware of a website service called Donor Connections. It appears to be Australian based but has a truly global reach. They explain their services:

"Donor Connections is a website that aims to connect genetic relatives from sperm or egg donation to one another.

Sperm and egg recipients can list their donation details on Donor Connections to look for a match with genetic parents or potential siblings. Sperm and egg donors can list their donation details on Donor Connections to look for a match with potential genetic offspring".

It is an interesting service and there appears to be quite a few people already listed from around the world. The "why do we do it" section of the website probably best explains the philosophy behind it:

"We wanted to offer this service to anyone involved in anonymous sperm or egg donation so they would have a avenue to follow to discover genetic relatives if they choose.

We believe that donor conceived adults and their donors should be supported in their curiosity about their genetic parents; children; siblings; grandparents; aunts and uncles. Discovering facts about the other side of your family can be important for a sense of identity; for medical histories; or to just connect with someone who possesses so many of your qualities and characteristics.

The desire for information about unknown genetic relatives is growing as these types of conceptions become more common worldwide. Discussions are going on globally about the rights of donors and recipients. While the world argues this topic, Donor Connections is endeavouring to break through the barrier and let people connect with one another if they choose.

Donor Connections is a voluntary site for consenting adults. Anyone who does not want to find their genetic relatives, or be found, need not participate and will remain completely anonymous".

For more information, visit Donor Connections here.  Thanks to Fertility Connection for telling us about it.

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