YouTube, Toronto SunMothers have the greatest love for their children. However, there are instances when they have no other choice but to give up their child because of unwanted situations.
Meet Gerda
Unsplash18-year-old Gerda Cole from Austria was pregnant when World War II took place, so she had no other choice but to give up her daughter for adoption in 1942.
Her New Family
UnsplashHer baby, Sonya Grist, was adopted by a German couple living in England.
A Tough Life
UnsplashSonya, later on, gave birth to Stephen Grist, and they were one of the Jewish families whose lives were upended by the N***s.
A Life-Changing Announcement
YouTube, Toronto SunAfter everything that happened to his family, Stephen heard the great news about the Austrian government announcing that anyone who would prove that their families departed Austria in the 1930s could obtain citizenship.
So He Did His Research
UnsplashStephen knew his mother’s biological parents were Austrian citizens at the time, so he searched on as many ancestry websites as he could.
Until He Found Someone
UnsplashHe got connected with Gerda’s stepson and explained that he was applying for Austrian citizenship. He asked him if he could have a copy of Gerda’s death certificate for the application process.
But There Wasn’t A Death Certificate
YouTube, Toronto SunStephen was surprised when Gerda’s stepson said, “You’re not going to find Gerda’s death certificate because she’s still alive and living in a nursing home in Canada.” So he relayed the news to his mom and arranged for them to travel to Canada.
The Reunion
YouTube, Toronto SunStephen and Sonya arrived on May 7th, just in time for Gerda’s 98th birthday celebration. The day became extra special as she finally got to meet her beloved daughter and grandson after 80 years.
Watch how Stephen paved the way for Sonya and Gerda’s reunion in the video below.
Watch Video Here:
