Linda Carol Trotter, born Linda Carol Forrest, spent most of her life in Texas. Growing up in Houston and later moving to Franklin, Tennessee, she always knew she was adopted from Greece in the 1950s. But the story of how she became an adoptee held a surprising twist.
At the age of 59, Trotter received an unexpected email. It revealed that her biological mother was still alive and had never forgotten about her. This shocking news compelled Trotter to immediately seek out her long-lost mother.
Trotter’s Journey in America
Trotter had a wonderful upbringing as an only child in America. She fondly recalls her adoptive parents as the loving and caring individuals every child deserves. Growing up, she never felt a strong connection to Greece and had everything she needed, so she never felt the need to explore her roots.
However, as she entered her late fifties, with most of her elder relatives deceased, Trotter felt a deep longing to discover her origins. With the help of a Greek-speaking friend, she started digging into her past and soon uncovered valuable information in her adoption papers from the Greek orphanage where she once lived.
The documents revealed that Trotter, known as Eftychia Noula in Greece, was the daughter of Harikleia Noula. She had lived in the town of Stranoma in western Greece before being adopted and brought to the United States.
The Search for Her Mother
Armed with this newfound knowledge, Trotter reached out to various organizations in her quest to find her mother. A few months later, she received an email that brought her to tears. It confirmed that her mother was still alive and eager to reunite with her.
As Trotter read on, she discovered the heartbreaking reason for her orphanhood. The email revealed that Noula had spent her entire life believing false tales about her daughter’s disappearance, much like Trotter herself.
In truth, when Noula became pregnant at 19, her grandfather arranged for them to go to Athens. He assured Noula that her infant would be temporarily placed in an institution until she found stable employment. However, Trotter was ultimately left in an orphanage, leading to the separation between mother and daughter.
A Long-Awaited Reunion
After uncovering the truth about her life, Trotter made it clear that she wanted to meet her mother. A letter was sent to Noula in Greece, and soon, a village president visited Noula’s home. He exclaimed, “Harikleia, you’ve won the lottery.”
Confused, Noula replied that she didn’t play the lottery. The village president then shared the incredible news that her long-lost daughter was searching for her. Overwhelmed, Noula fainted but quickly regained consciousness and immediately asked to speak to Trotter.
Their first phone call was filled with emotions, and Noula’s only question was when her daughter would travel to Greece to see her. Although Trotter already had a trip planned with her husband for later that year, she knew she couldn’t wait. Just a week after their conversation, Trotter and her daughter arrived in Greece.
As they landed, they were met with a joyous celebration and heartfelt love. Among the crowd, Trotter caught sight of her mother, a short lady holding a massive bouquet of flowers. Overwhelmed, they both embraced and shed tears of joy.
Trotter spent a week in Greece, getting to know her mother and extended family. Since then, she has made frequent visits and even purchased property in her homeland. This heartwarming tale of love showcases the profound impact of reconnecting with one’s roots.
