DNA Lady
With so many uses for DNA testing these days, from the simple paternity test to the more complicated predictive genetics tests, I meet a variety of people from all walks of life. I always get a kick out of the young men and women, who are curious about the DNA testing process because of the TV shows they watch. They want me to call them and say "You are.... the Father". They make light of a very serious situation, but I still get the feeling that these young men and women know the responsibility they are facing. I am not worried about them or the future of their child. They are taking the step today in confirming paternity so that their child will have a proper foundation on which to build a life and to include both famiies in that process. I genuinely sense a maturity in these young moms and new dads that I don't always see in some of my older clients.
When I do make that call, I focus on the miracle of the new baby in their lives and the joy they will experience as new parents. I can feel a little fear, but with the right support and a positive attitude, most of these new parents are happy with the confirmation of paternity and ready to take on the role of "dad", or "poppy", or "da" - I always have to ask what will your baby call you?
There are occasions when I have been asked to lie or stall results. My own personal ethics don't allow me to do anything other than the usual process, that is collect the DNA, submit samples to an accredited laboratory and then notify all adult participants of results. It is hard, because the circumstances may be that the new mom, has not had time to make peace with the results, but if a man willingly participates in a DNA test, then he should be entitled to the results at the same time as the mom.
Our infidelity tests are mostly submitted by middle aged clients, educated but consumed by doubt about a spouse. Thoughts of infidelity interfere with their everyday activities to the point, that as they come into my office, I can feel their relief to finally get this over with. These clients have taken steps to secure a stained item of clothing that presents as suspicious. Although not admissible in court, these test can determine if there is a biological substance present, if there is male DNA or female DNA present and if that DNA matches the client, or in most cases, does not match the client. Dresses, underwear, shirts, upholstery from a car have all been submitted for infidelity testing. I don't offer insight into results, because most clients will only remember what they want to remember - in the case that the results don't come back to their liking. I only offer information on what the labs can test and how they can use those tests to help remove doubt from their minds. Diplomacy and tact are of the utmost importance in these cases, as well as empathy. The ability to diffuse a possible high tension situation, and remain calm does not always come easy but with experience and security in place - I feel comfortable handling these cases.
The Predictive Genetic client is perhaps someone who has been directed by their physician to come in for dna testing, because their current lifestyle is putting them at risk. The physician relies on genetic predisposition testing to "wake up", the client that putting a few healthy steps in place today may possibly allow for more pleasant "golden years". After all, with health insurance expenses sky rocketing - who is going to be able to pay for healthcare? Better to get healthy today, so that costs are limited in the future. Predictive Genetic Tests involve a simple skin prick (similar to a diabetic stick) and within about 2 - 3 weeks some genetic risk information is provided only to the client. (read the GINA act signed by then President George Bush 43) These are private tests and the client is then urged to speak to his/her physician about results and measures that can be taken to prevent, stall or eliminate genetically inherited diseases. I congratulate these clients in taking initiative to modify their behavior. They (or their physician) are enlightened enough to know what is available to them today in terms of DNA testing and they are taking action too.
The U.S. government is asking more and more of our immigrant families to provide solid proof of their biological relationship. So more often, we receive a call from an individual who wants to know the process of DNA testing between sponsor and beneficiary. They are confused as to how their beneficiary living in Ghana or Caracas or El Salvador will be tested. It is really not that hard or confusing, once I show them our step by step guide. You have to have a bit of understanding of other cultures as well. Not all cultures understand a smile, or the importance of eye contact, or that a price is a price - not a negotiating point. It's all in a day's work and a lifetime of experience with various cultures.
So why did I open the DNA Lady - how could I say no when I have the opportunity to meet young and old, in all walks of life, with all sorts of stories and each one a lesson in appreciating my own life. The successful business owner, and that is what this is first and foremost, a business - must study people effectively, know your own behavior and boundaries and have a clear sensitivity to customers.
My most interesting client is the one who wants his/her child to excel in the right sport. They take the time to have their child's DNA analyzed to determine if their child is right for an endurance sport or a strength sport. Who is the next Victor Cruz, an endurance athlete or the next defensive end - Justin Tuck - a strength athlete?
