TOGETHER AGAIN  Friday, July 25, 2008

Scientifically speaking, the bond between mother and child is more than special; it's unique. The same can be said for all members of the same family, which is why DNA testing is so important in immigration issues. In cases where valid documentation is not available, or paperwork is questionable, DNA testing makes it possible to have the most meaningful of family reunions. Bradley Waite understands this situation first hand. His daughter was born out of wedlock in Jamaica so his name was not listed on her birth certificate. A positive result from DNA testing requested by U.S. Immigration officials increases the chances of them being reunited.

Some immigrants are making sure all their i's are dotted and t's are crossed by obtaining DNA testing without being asked. Joseph Mataley a Ghanaian immigrant now living in Colorado went ahead with DNA testing as soon as he filed a residency application for his four daughters. He believes it was money well spent after they joined him in the U.S. two years ago.