Dana Once Refused to Adopt a Child Because “They Weren’t Compatible” — Now That Child Is an Honor Student and Has Sent Dana a Special Gift
Years ago, Dana Perino, former White House Press Secretary and current Fox News anchor, was exploring adoption when she met an 8-year-old girl through a private agency. But after an emotional home visit and days of deliberation, Dana declined the match — citing what she later called “a sense that we weren’t compatible in the way the agency described.”
The decision haunted her.
“She was smart, shy, curious,” Dana once said in a 2019 podcast.
“But at the time, I convinced myself I wasn’t the right person for her future.”
Fast forward to today: that little girl, now 17, is an honor student, on track to attend a top-tier university — and she just mailed Dana a letter that left the news anchor in tears.
💌 The Letter That Changed Everything
Last week, Dana received a certified package at her home. Inside: a framed certificate of academic excellence, a photo of the now-teenage girl in her graduation gown — and a handwritten note.
“You once said we weren’t compatible. Maybe that was true. But your kindness still made an impact. I wanted you to know I’m doing okay… and I wanted to say thank you for seeing me when others didn’t.”
Dana reportedly broke down upon reading it and has since reached out to the agency to reconnect.
🧠 A Bittersweet Past
Though Dana never publicly named the child or the agency, she has spoken in the past about the emotional complexity of the adoption process.
“You’re not just picking a child. You’re deciding whether your life, your home, your heart — can give them what they need.”
While she went on to become a vocal advocate for child welfare reform and mentorship programs, she never adopted.
Until now, the story of that “almost-child” had remained a private chapter — one she believed would never be revisited.
🎓 A Full Circle Moment
The girl, who asked not to be named, says she just wanted Dana to know she made a difference anyway — even in saying no.
“She was one of the first adults who didn’t talk down to me.”
The gesture has reportedly inspired Dana to write a personal essay about the experience, which may be included in her upcoming memoir.
📌 A Story of Grace, Growth, and Second Chances
In a world full of closed doors and almosts, this story proves that even the decisions we regret most can echo with quiet meaning.
“I may not have raised her,” Dana said, “but I’ll always care about her. And now, I’ll never forget her.”