Sometimes one woman’s nightmare is another’s dream.
A little more than eight years ago, Westwood resident and actress Nanci Christopher found herself racing to South Carolina, straight into the winds of Hurricane Floyd, where her newborn son was waiting for her. Joshua had come into the world just hours earlier. His birth mother was dying of liver disease, and knowing she would not be able to care for her baby for long, had sought out someone who could. Nanci was single, and with two
unsuccessful adoption attempts under her belt, was running out of both patience and time. The two women found each other through a private adoption attorney, and the result was a symbiotic miracle whose effects have stretched beyond the lives of more than just the individuals involved.
“Birth mothers are faced with a terrible decision,†said Nanci. “It’s such a painful choice. To me, adoption is the universe’s way of setting something right.â€
Over the years, as she watched Joshua thrive, Nanci felt a need to give back to the woman who had given her the gift of her son. To spread her story, inspire others and raise funds for the disease that killed Joshua’s birth mother at the age of 30, she has written and starred in a solo play. And Baby Makes Two – An Adoption Tale is a touching, often humorous exploration of all it took to fulfill her deepest desire.
During the show’s nine-week extended run at the Santa Monica Playhouse, more than $9,400 was donated to charities, including $7,150 to the American Liver Foundation. That is to say nothing of the awareness that has been raised, not only for the foundation, but for adoption as well. In July, she brought the show to Paris, performing in a sold-out evening at the Théâtre d’Aire Falguière. Regional and Off-Broadway productions and publications are currently under consideration.
Nanci’s longtime friend, actor and comedian Richard Lewis, said of her show, “Nothing better than to have a good cry and laugh simultaneously! This play is heroic, incredibly moving, entertaining and timeless. And thank God, especially during these days, it’s art that really addresses our most important asset – children.â€
For anyone who has misgivings about adoption, the closeness between mother and son is an inspiration. They share the same temperament, sense of humor, likes and dislikes. Says Nanci, “He even grows his hair the same color as I dye mine!â€
To learn more, including how to donate to the American Liver Foundation and several adoption organizations, visit
www.andbabymakestwo-anadoptiontale.com
