On December 17, 1997, when our son Adam told us he was gay, our world was turned upside down. We were absolutely devastated. We desperately needed someone to comfort us, to assure us that our son, our family would be okay. But we were too embarrassed and scared to admit this secret to anyone, to reach out for comfort.

We tried several counselors. All of which were understanding, but did not give us the answer we wanted. We really wanted to hear them say, "Mr. and Mrs. Ellis, your son is not gay, he is just confused and we will be able to help him." We did not get that answer, so we moved on.

In the middle of my restless nights, I would get on the Internet to find anything that would give me peace. I found nothing. We don't want you to feel as alone, hopeless and desperate as we did. We are committed to helping you through this. We know you are searching for comfort, answers, and a way to make sense of this.

I was certain of only one thing back then: I did not want to lose my child. I knew I would have to find a way to change him or to accept him. I did not know how to start doing either one. I felt trapped between my love for my son and the teachings of my church.

The darkness that is covering your life will go away. We can tell you that from experience. The good news is that you can and will come through this a better, stronger and more loving person to the World around you and all God's children. You and your child will be okay, but you must work to understand the truth in your heart.

So what should you do if your child is gay? You can't turn your back on them. You love them too much for that. But how can you accept something about them that your church, your family, your friends and possibly even yourself finds unbearable, immoral or indecent?

If we are successful with this website, you will find the answer to this challenging question. It is our prayer that our efforts will keep you from losing your child.

--- Patti Ellis