Journey Genetic Testing

04/24/2023

04/12/2023

Can My DNA Be Tested Without My Knowledge?

Imagine suddenly receiving a letter and a copy of the DNA report that states the man you thought to be your biological father, isn't! You contact him and he says he never gave his permission for his DNA to be tested. And then he asks, "Can someone do that?" This happens all the time - grandparents test their grandchildren to be certain they are biologically related, mothers send in a DNA sample of the child and another man suspected of being the true biological father, a father sends in a DNA sample from his child without the mother knowing, to make certain the child is his. With the rise in accuracy of DNA testing, the questions that used to be family gossip, can know be answered in just a couple of days.

What about the legality of sending in someone's DNA to be tested without them knowing about it? It is not our intent to address the ethical issues surrounding this question, as there are valid arguments on both sides. What we do want to remind you is that when questions arise that require a DNA test to verify a relationship, emotions run high and these questions are not usually able to be put to rest until an answer is provided to person seeking to know the truth.

Regarding the question that is often asked about the legality of such testing, to the best of our knowledge, there is no specific law in the United States prohibiting a DNA test from being performed without a person's consent, or in the case of a child, the consent of a legal guardian. However, the only DNA tests that can be performed without consent are private, also known as "peace of mind," DNA tests. DNA testing results that are to be submitted as evidence in court, or for any legal purpose, which are done to prove a specific biological relationship, do require consent by the person being tested, or by the legal guardian for a minor child.

When a DNA mouth swab sample can't be obtained for testing, as is often the case when requesting a DNA test without another person's knowledge, the use of non-standard, or alternative DNA samples, are often used. Items like toothbrushes, hair strands with the roots attached, ear wax, cigarette butts, and many other items are often used for discreet testing without the other person aware that the testing is being done. Whether the items are gathered at home, or by a professional investigator, close to one out of every fifteen DNA paternity and relationship tests use something other than a mouth swab for DNA.

The answers these tests provide are important to those who are wanting to do the DNA testing. The results from the DNA comparison usually put all doubt to rest, and save uncomfortable, or hurtful, conversations in many cases. In the case of testing done through Journey Genetic Testing, there is no need to be concerned that any person's DNA we use to do the testing, with or without consent, that it will ever be shared with anyone else. or find it's way into any government database, or sold for research, as all samples and information are removed 30 days after the results are delivered.

If you ever find yourself faced with a report that states you are, or are not, related and you didn't know your DNA was tested, we suggest you make certain the DNA markers listed are actually yours. You can have an individual DNA profile done by submitting mouth swabs, and then compare those findings. If they are yours, they will match exactly. If it isn't your DNA, there will be differences.

Remember, the truth should always be available to everyone about their family relationships, no matter how that truth comes about.

04/12/2023

Can I Do A Paternity Test If the Father Is Deceased? The answer is "yes."

DNA relationship testing is the most accurate method of confirming a biological relationship exists between two people. The most commonly used DNA test is a direct paternity test. In this test an alleged father's genetic profile is created and compared to that of a child. The result will confirm whether or not he is the biological father of a child. The test is very easy to do, as it only requires rubbing swabs (buccal) on the inside of the mouth and sending it to our laboratory for analysis.

However, we understand that there are situations where the alleged father is no longer available for voluntary testing due to the fact he is deceased. Often, the first thought of those facing this situation is that paternity can now never be established conclusively. This would not be accurate.

There are a number of options possible for confirming if the deceased is the biological father of one or more children. It may be possible to still obtain a DNA sample from the deceased. If not, then you can also consider using a DNA relationship test. These DNA comparisons are similar to a DNA paternity test, but instead it uses DNA testing of close members of the family to confirm various types of relationships. The options include a DNA sibling test, a grandparent DNA test, or an avuncular DNA test with uses a uncle/aunt and suspected niece(s)/nephew(s).

In case of the death of a suspected father, lets look at three separate instances and what you can to do in these situations:

Scenario 1: If death has very recently occurred it may still be possible to collect a biological sample from the body (usually this period is not more than 3-5 days from time of death). If the body has been take to a funeral home, we recommended that a licensed funeral director tries to obtain (where possible) a mouth swab sample. If this is not possible, hair samples with root as well as fingernail cuttings may be able to be used. If the DNA test is wanted for legal reasons, a funeral director can also complete a chain of custody for this type of collection.

Scenario 2: If an autopsy was performed by a licensed Medical Examiner (M.E.), and either a blood or tissue sample was kept (which is more common that you may think), the next of kin can contact the M.E. and ask if they would release that sample for DNA testing. This is done using a chain of custody. We regularly work with this type of situation.

Scenario 3: In the event that the body has already been buried, samples may be obtained in an indirect manner - for example through a toothbrush, comb (might contain useful hairs), dentures, or recently smoked cigarette butts. These samples are all likely to contain DNA material that can be used to perform the test. However, success in obtaining DNA from such non-standard DNA samples depend on a number of factors most importantly the condition of the sample.

These are some of the most commonly used options available. Most importantly is the ability to obtain a DNA specimen from the deceased person that may contain DNA. The costs and difficulties in obtaining a sample in Scenario 2 may be higher than simply obtaining some hair or fingernails from the body. However, each case is unique and if you find yourself in this situation, we suggest you contact a Genetic Consultant at 1-855-362-5224 to discuss your situation in detail.

04/12/2023

Paternity and S***m Donors

S***m donation is a topic that has divided national and international opinion on both sides of the fence. The act of a man donating s***m creates a situation in which couples with fertility problems raise the child(ren) of the donated s***m. This kind of solution can be a blessing to childless families, but it also often sparks an emotional and moral debate over the role of the s***m donor to his eventual biological child. There is a chance that the child in later life will be confused by the fact that there is a relationship between DNA testing and the father.

Both sides of the issue have compelling points.

One argument considers a children right to see both of his or her biological parents, regardless of other factors. Some people think that the natural connection is stronger than anything that can be created, and that both the parent and child have a right to maintain contact with one another. Nevertheless, this perspective has been challenged by several strong arguments. First of all, in the context of s***m donation, this creates a lot of policy problems. Few people would say that it is a good thing to be able to track down a s***m donor. S***m donation does not mean that a man has to be a father. For fear that this may disrupt the family unit and hinder the children upbringing, it is best that the s***m donor has no direct link to the child.

Moreover, the influential Hohfeld schema, which is based on a judicial context, suggests that rights correlate directly with responsibilities. What then are the responsibilities of a s***m donor, compared to his rights? There is a genetic link, but there is no paternal link. The s***m donor is already taking care of that part, so he has nothing to contribute aside from his common genetic materials.

The idea is that children should be allowed to grow up with their families and that biological relationships through s***m donation should be kept secret for policy reasons and to prevent problems later in life. However to counter this, why shouldn't a child's biological father have the right to contact and access, if not at a distance, with his child? Since the father and child share the same genes, it is possible to use DNA testing to determine whether the child will be subject to the same medical problems or temperament issues. This could be beneficial in treating illnesses.

The issue of s***m donor anonymity and DNA paternity testing.

A s***m donators anonymity could be further jeopardized by a DNA paternity test since it will confirm who the biological father is of the child. Is this right? In a case having national importance we were recently involved with, does a child have the right to compel a s***m donor to give up the right to remain anonymous? When a donor has a family, the disruption to their family should be considered prior to contact. Most donor sites promise that the information on the man donating will be kept confidential. The only time this should be able to be violated is with a court order, and in our opinion, that order only in the even of criminal intent on the part of the donor, or to save the life of the child.

The debate over the rights and responsibilities of the s***m donator in relation to his biological child is going to continue for many years to come.

04/12/2023

Siblings Find Each Other After 80 Years Apart!

We have been given permission to share this story based on actual clients we had the opportunity to help through sibling testing. Only the names were changed at the family's request.

In the summer of 1942, in a small town in Eastern Europe, two sisters, Anna and Maria, were separated from each other during a bombing raid. Anna, the younger of the two, was just six years old while Maria was eight. They were hiding in the basement of their home when a bomb struck the house, and they were separated in the chaos. Both of their parents died.

Maria was taken in by a family who lived on the outskirts of town, while Anna was rescued by a group of nuns who were taking care of orphaned children. Despite their best efforts, the sisters were unable to reunite with each other, and they quickly lost touch. As the years passed, both Anna and Maria grew up, got married, and started their own families. They both had children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, but they always wondered what had happened to their long-lost sibling.

Anna's granddaughter, Sophie, began researching more about the family history using a variety of online websites. After several years of trying to track down family, she finally through that she had found a probable connection. Anna was living in the U.S. and Maria was living in Eastern Europe, so meeting was not an option at first. Sophie researched the best way to prove if the person she found was the biological sister of Anna, and she agreed to do a Sibling DNA Test to verify if they were sisters. Anna agreed, and a few weeks later, they received the results. To everyone's surprise, the sibling test verified that Anna and Maria were indeed full sisters.

Anna and her family were shocked and overwhelmed by the news. Maria was equally shocked to learn that she had a sister living in United States. She had always wondered what had happened to Anna and had spent years searching for her without success. Now, in her eighties, she was finally going to be reunited with her long-lost sibling.

The two sisters arranged to meet in New York City, and their families came together to celebrate the reunion. When Anna and Maria saw each other for the first time in over 80 years, they embraced tightly and wept tears of joy. They spent hours catching up on each other's lives and reminiscing about their childhood.

Despite the years that had passed and the distance between them, Anna and Maria had an instant connection. They talked about their families, their memories, and their hopes for the future. They were grateful for the chance to finally be together again and to make up for lost time. As they got to know each other again, Anna and Maria discovered that they had much in common. They both loved to cook, enjoyed gardening, and had a passion for music. They also shared a deep connection to their homeland and were proud of their heritage.

Through their journey of separation and reunion, Anna and Maria had learned the importance of family, love, and perseverance. They had never given up hope of finding each other and were grateful for the chance to finally be together again. Last week Anna passed away.

The family gave permission to share their story in the hope that it might inspire others to seek out their long-lost relatives. We were told that both Anna and Maria were able to experience joy and happiness in finding each other again, and that Anna was able to speak with Maria by phone only hours before she passed away.

The entire staff at Journey Genetic Testing feels honored to have been able to be a part of this wonderful story, and to be part of bringing two sisters together again. It is why are dedicated to what we do, and we thank Anna and Marie's families for allowing us to be a part of their journey to truth, through DNA testing.

04/12/2023

Top 10 Reasons Why People Take A Grandparent DNA

A grandparent DNA test is a type of DNA test that can help determine the biological relationship between a grandchild and grandparent(s). Here are the top 10 reasons a person would get a grandparent DNA test:

1. Legal reasons: In some cases, grandparent DNA testing may be required for legal reasons, such as in cases of custody disputes, inheritance disputes, or immigration.

2. Family history: Grandchildren who are unsure about their family history may want to use a grandparent DNA test to determine whether they share the same biological grandparent(s).

3. Paternity questions: In cases where the biological father is unavailable for testing, a grandparent DNA test may be used to determine paternity.

4. Medical reasons: In some cases, a grandparent DNA test may be used to determine whether genetic conditions run in the family.

5. Adoption: Adopted individuals who are trying to locate biological family members may use a grandparent DNA test to identify biological grandparents.

6. Surrogacy: In cases of surrogacy, a grandparent DNA test may be used to determine the genetic relationship between the child and their biological grandparents.

7. Peace of mind: For grandchildren who are unsure about their biological relationships, a grandparent DNA test can provide peace of mind and clarity.

8. Family planning: Grandchildren who are planning to have children may want to use a grandparent DNA test to determine whether genetic conditions run in their family and to plan accordingly.

9. Genealogy: Individuals who are interested in genealogy and family history may use a grandparent DNA test to learn more about their biological roots and connections to distant relatives.

10. Forensic investigations: In rare cases, grandparent DNA testing may be used in forensic investigations, such as in cases of mistaken identity or criminal investigations.

Overall, grandparent DNA testing can provide valuable information about the genetic makeup of individuals and their biological relationships to their grandparents. It can be used for a variety of legal, medical, and personal reasons.

04/12/2023

The Top Ten Reasons To Get A Twin Zygosity Journey Genetic.

A twin zygosity DNA test can determine whether twins are identical or fraternal by analyzing their DNA. Here are the top 10 reasons a person would get a twin zygosity DNA test:

1. Curiosity: Many parents of twins are simply curious about whether their twins are identical or fraternal. Knowing the type of twins can be interesting and help understand their children's genetic makeup.

2. Medical reasons: Identical twins are more likely to develop certain medical conditions, such as autoimmune disorders, than fraternal twins. Knowing whether twins are identical or fraternal can help doctors monitor and treat these conditions.

3. Fertility treatment: Twins born as a result of fertility treatment may be more likely to be identical than twins conceived naturally. Knowing the type of twins can be helpful in planning for future pregnancies.

4. Legal reasons: In some cases, twin zygosity DNA testing may be required for legal reasons, such as in cases of inheritance disputes.

5. Adoption: Adoptive parents of twins may want to know whether their children are identical or fraternal for medical and genetic reasons.

6. Research: Researchers may use twin zygosity DNA testing to study genetic factors in conditions that are more common in one type of twin than the other.

7. Peace of mind: For parents who are unsure whether their twins are identical or fraternal, a twin zygosity DNA test can provide peace of mind and clarity.

8. Twin studies: Twin zygosity DNA testing is a common tool used in twin studies, which aim to understand the genetic and environmental factors that contribute to various traits and conditions.

9. Surrogacy: In cases of surrogacy, a twin zygosity DNA test may be used to determine the genetic relationship between the twins and their biological parents.

10. Forensic investigations: In rare cases, twin zygosity DNA testing may be used in forensic investigations, such as in cases of mistaken identity or criminal investigations.

Overall, twin zygosity DNA testing can provide valuable information about the genetic makeup of twins and can be used for a variety of medical, legal, and personal reasons.

04/12/2023

Here are the top 10 reasons why someone would need a paternity test:

1. Establishing legal paternity: This is perhaps the most common reason why people get a paternity test. A legal paternity test can establish the identity of a child's biological father and can be used for a variety of legal purposes such as child support, custody, and visitation rights.

2. Peace of mind: For people who are uncertain about their child's paternity, a paternity test can provide peace of mind and clarity. Knowing the biological father of a child can be emotionally satisfying and can help establish a stronger bond between father and child.

3. Adoption: Adoptive parents may choose to get a paternity test to learn about the biological history of their child. This can be especially important for medical reasons, as it can provide information about any genetic risks or health issues that may be present.

4. Immigration: When a person applies for citizenship or a visa, they may be required to prove their relationship to a family member who is already a citizen or resident. A paternity test can provide the necessary proof of biological relationship.

5. determine eligibility for inheritance or to establish family ties for estate planning purposes.

6. Child custody: Paternity testing can be an important factor in child custody cases. The test can help determine the biological father of a child and can be used to help establish parental rights and visitation schedules.

7. Surrogacy: When a surrogate carries a child for someone else, a paternity test may be used to establish the biological relationship between the child and the intended parents.

8. Medical reasons: In some cases, paternity testing may be used for medical reasons such as identifying genetic disorders or determining compatibility for organ donation.

9. Family history: For people who are interested in genealogy or family history, a paternity test can provide valuable information about their biological roots and connections to distant relatives.

10. Legal disputes: In some cases, paternity testing may be ordered by a court as part of a legal dispute, such as in cases of alleged infidelity or contested child support payments.

Overall, paternity testing can provide valuable information about biological relationships and can be used for a variety of legal and personal reasons.