My story
My name is Deborah Lombardi. We adopted our daughter through Adoption Ark and arrived home with her on September 30, 2004. I am writing this letter to be used as a reference for the wonderful experience I had with Alla Afinogenova. I will begin by stating that I am not convinced that I can find the best words to describe my experiences with Alla, for she exceeds the meaning of all compliments/accolades I could ever offer.
Adoption is a hard experience both emotionally and physically. I have told Alla on many occasions that it was easier to obtain my MBA! Of course I did not really mean that but I used just as much emotion and energy. My first email to Alla was in January of 2004 and I was in Kazakhstan by August 2, 2004. My point is not that it will take everyone only 8 months, but how efficient Alla is. I would email her almost on a daily basis and she always responded within one day with substantial answers and what the step needed to be. She was always accurate, efficient, knowledgeable and just as importantly, honest.
As I previously mentioned, adoption is a hard process. Honesty from your case worker is paramount. Alla always gave me the worst case scenarios and always pushed for the best. Never once did I doubt that Alla always served in our best interest.
I was not confronted with additional fees outside of Adoption Ark’s contract nor was I surprised with any unprepared documents when I was traveling. Alla is extremely organized and professional; coupled with her caring and personable demeanor constantly reminded me how happy I was that I found Adoption Ark.
Please feel free to call us to verify this letter, talk further about the travel or any other part of the process. We had a great experience in every aspect and would love to share with you. Grace was 23 months when we got her home and we just celebrated her second birthday on October 11th. She adjusted beautifully and our lives have never been better, thanks to Alla and Adoption Ark!
Sincerely,
Debbie and John Lombardi
Morristown, New Jersey