Family tales and photos reveal only part of our ancestral story. A clearer picture of our past and even our future lies deeper - in our genes. That's why WBIR Marketing Director Kara McFarland turned to science to fill in some blanks. <\/p>\n
Robin Wilhoit, WBIR 8:10 PM. EDT July 17, 2017 <\/p>\n
WBIR Marketing Director Kara McFarland was adopted as an infant. She used the genetic testing kit23andMe\" to learn more about her biological familys history. (Photo: WBIR) <\/p>\n
Family tales and photos reveal only part of our ancestral story. A clearer picture of our past and even our future lies deeper in our genes. Thats why WBIR Marketing Director Kara McFarland turned to science to fill in some blanks. <\/p>\n
Kara always knew she was adopted as a newborn. She never gave it a second thought that she looked nothing like her dark haired, olive skinned adoptive parents. But as she grew, so did her curiosity. <\/p>\n
I went on a journey of discovery on my own. I didnt tell them, said Kara. \"I was able to find in my basement the adoption file and I found some photos. One photo, I just couldnt believe it. It was like looking at my reflection. <\/p>\n
A baby photo of Kara and her adoptive parents. Photo courtesy Kara McFarland. (Photo: WBIR) <\/p>\n
Karas curiosity eventually turned into questions about her background and her health based on her biological familys history. Theyre questions that can now be answered with at-home genetic testing kits you can buy online. A simple saliva sample can reveal what part of the world you come from, who you are related to and potential health risks. <\/p>\n
Kara used the genetic testing kit 23andMe. She spit into a small tube, answered some questions online, sealed up the kit and sent it off in the mail. <\/p>\n
Four weeks later Karas genetic findings were in her computer inbox. It revealed she is 96.8% Northwestern European, among others. <\/p>\n
There is British, Irish, a little French and German. It says 1% Scandinavian. A lot of people ask me if Im Scandinavian but I dont know anything about that. Im excited to learn,\" she said. <\/p>\n
Kara's genetic findings from her 23andMe test. (Photo: WBIR) <\/p>\n
The test also gives Kara heads up on variants in her genes that put her at risks of certain health conditions. It turns out, she has a slightly increased risk of developing late onset Alzheimers Disease. <\/p>\n
The only thing you can do is do your research and practice a healthy lifestyle, said Kara. <\/p>\n
Now armed with information, Kara has a glimpse into her future and a clearer picture of her past. <\/p>\n
I still identify as Yugoslavian and American Indian. Thats what I was raised to know. Now I can research and learn a little bit more about those areas and feel a connection to a people I havent felt a connection to,\" she said. <\/p>\n
Tuesday on 10News at 6, an expert will share how these test kits work and the accuracy of the findings. <\/p>\n
2017 WBIR.COM <\/p>\n
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\nSearching for an answer in DNA - WBIR-TV<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"