Madonna has written an open letter, defending her decision to adopt a one-year-old Malawian boy.
In it, Madonna writes that the adoption process began "many months" prior to her and husband Guy Ritchie's trip to Malawi a fortnight ago.She went on to claim that the adoption procedure has been entirely legal, despite reports the pop superstar sought a governmental exemption to fast-track to adoption process.
Madonna concluded by writing that she was overwhelmed by her trip to one of the world's most impoverished nations, and hoped that the ensuing publicity brings more attention to the plight of the world's neediest.
Madonna's open letter is re-printed in full below:
By MADONNA RITCHIE, 17 October 2006
My husband and I began the adoption process many months prior to our trip to Malawi. I did not wish to disclose my intentions to the world prior to the adoption happening as this is a private family matter. After learning that there were over one million orphans in Malawi, it was my wish to open up our home and help one child escape an extreme life of hardship, poverty and in many cases death, as well as expand our family.
Nevertheless, we have gone about the adoption procedure according to the law like anyone else who adopts a child. Reports to the contrary are totally inaccurate. The procedure includes an 18-month evaluation period after which time we hope to make this adoption permanent. This was not a decision or commitment that my family or I take lightly.
I am overwhelmed and inspired by my trip to Malawi and hope that it helps bring attention to how much more the world needs to do to help the children of Africa.
My heartfelt thanks for all the good wishes I have received and I hope the press will allow my family some room for us to experience the joy we feel to have David home.
Madonna Ritchie October 17, 2006 London, England
