Episode 86: NPE (Not Parent Expected) – Kara Rubinstein Deyerin

Kara Rubinstein Deyerin is an NPE (not parent expected), mom, wife, Jew, writer, cook, knitter, and connoisseur of all things human. Two years ago she wanted to see where in Africa her father's family came from. Her over-the-counter DNA test revealed she was 50% something, but it wasn't from any African ethnicity. This meant the man on her birth certificate couldn't be her genetic father. She lost her bi-racial identity with the click of a mouse. Kara discovered she was 50% Ashkenazi Jew. The DNA pandora's box she opened led to an identity crisis. She's a passionate advocate for genetic identity rights. Read her blog about being Unexpectedly Jewish (www.UnexpectedlyJewish.com) in Seattle. Kara also co-founded the non-profit organization Right To Know which helps to educate the public and professionals on the complexities of the intersection of genetic information, identity, and family dynamics. Visit http://www.RightToKnow.us to learn more.

Listen to Kara as she discusses with Ellen and Jenn:
• The definition of NPE.
• Her family history and upbringing.
• The culture shock when moving to live with her grandparents.
• Deciding to take a DNA Ancestry test.
• Coping with the shock of learning she is not who she thought she was.
• Talking with her mother about the results and learning of her conception.
• The journey of trying to find her genetic father and his side of the family.
• The touching reaction of her non biological father.
• What she is doing to help fellow NPEs.
• Her thoughts on anonymous donations.
• How you can help support her non-profit, “Right To Know” and other NPE’s.

Want to share your story or ask a question? Call and leave us a message on our hotline: 303-997-1903.
Learn more about our podcast: https://iwanttoputababyinyou.com/
Learn more about our surrogacy agencies: https://www.brightfuturesfamilies.com/
Learn more about Ellen’s law firm: http://trachmanlawcenter.com/
Learn more about Kara’s non-profit: http://www.RightToKnow.us