Dixon Handshaw, a 75-year-old man from North Carolina, experienced what he describes as his "Christmas miracle" as he reunited with his biological siblings for the first time just before Christmas 2023. Born in Buffalo, New York, Handshaw was adopted at three months old and spent most of his life believing he was an only child. That all changed when significant changes to New York State law allowed him access to his original birth certificate, leading to this heartfelt reunion.
Handshaw’s emotional reunion took place on December 21, 2023, when he traveled to Rochester, New York, to meet his half-siblings, which included Gary Romig and Wendy Gell. This long-awaited moment became possible after the unsealing of pre-adoption birth certificates, legislation enacted in 2020. "This is my Christmas miracle," Handshaw said, reflecting on the extraordinary event.
Growing up, Handshaw often dreamed about having siblings. He was always curious about his biological family but encountered obstacles due to New York State laws, which previously sealed birth certificates and made such searches near impossible. "I always wanted to find them, but New York State sealed the birth certificates, and it was impossible to find out," he shared.
It wasn’t until he received his birth certificate in August 2023, which revealed the name of his biological father—Robert "Bud" Romig—that his search began to bear fruit. The moment Handshaw discovered his father’s name, he took to Google, immediately finding his father’s obituary. This led him to realize he had several half-siblings waiting for him, including Gary Romig, whom he contacted directly.
Describing the initial phone call, Gary recalled, “I got a call and I didn’t recognize the number. I rarely answer the phone if I don’t recognize the number. But for some reason, I answered it.” Handshaw introduced himself as Gary's brother, leading to confusion and surprise on the other end of the line. Despite initial hesitations about intruding upon the lives of the Romigs, Handshaw felt encouraged by Gary’s empathy, having been adopted himself.
After confirming their connection with several photographs, Handshaw was welcomed with enthusiasm by his newfound relatives. The following gathering was monumental, touching on the joy of lost connections. Over the weekend, Handshaw met more than 50 family members, many of whom he had never known existed. “I’ve never met anybody who shares my DNA,” he expressed, overwhelmed by the swarm of family and the warmth of their embraces.
He continued, “I’ve never felt such an outpouring of unconditional love as I had from my new family.” This embrace from his half-siblings served not only as festive cheer; it reaffirmed the longings he harbored throughout his life to have siblings. The gathering included lots of hugs and stories shared across generations—cousins, half-brothers, and sisters—all together celebrating this newfound familial bond.
The emotional weight of the reunion was significant, especially during the holiday season. "It was amazing," Handshaw stated, referring to the immediate connection he felt with his family, adding, “It was wonderful... I have never felt such an outpouring of unconditional love as I had from my new family.” He described the day as overwhelming yet filled with love, marking the start of new traditions for the Handshaw family.
Plans quickly formed for future gatherings, including camping trips next summer, reinforcing the newfound relationships. Although Handshaw will not be spending Christmas Day with his family this year, the anticipation of connecting again soon kept his spirits high. “We’re on it every day,” he said about the texting group he shares with his newfound siblings, showcasing their eagerness to stay connected.
Handshaw's story resonates deeply, exemplifying how familial ties can reemerge even later in life, underpinning the importance of connection, especially during the holidays. “I had great adoptive parents. They were wonderful. I love them, and I miss them, but I always wanted siblings, and now I have them,” he remarked, reflecting on the joy of finally getting to know his biological family. Handshaw’s incredible story serves as an encouragement to those searching for their roots, highlighting the unforeseen ways love can manifest, and how dreams can come true, no matter how long it takes.
