The Bond We Share

A True Story of Adoption, Family Dysfunction, Traumatic Separation, and the Healing Journey That Reunited a Brother and Sister

By: Patrick Butler, Melyssa Fleming

Narrated by: Jacob Baird, Bree Boruff

Mending Fractured Bonds

Transforming Family Scars into Lasting Strength and Beauty

Meet Patrick Butler and Melyssa Fleming, a dynamic brother-sister duo juggling parenthood, thriving careers, active volunteerism, podcasting, and now, writing. In The Bond We Share, they open up about their upbringing in the Midwest, where their parents’ decision to adopt Melyssa initially brought joy, but later faced challenges due to extended family dynamics and mental health struggles. The siblings were abruptly separated during their formative years, disrupting the foundation of their sibling bond.

Their unwavering hope to reunite guided them through important stages of their lives, ultimately leading them to find each other, heal, and gain strength together.

The Bond We Share is not just a memoir but a story that highlights the significance of the choices we make in our lives and the lasting impact of those decisions on others. It narrates the story of a bond that was challenged but never severed.

©2024 Patrick Butler, Melyssa Fleming (P)2025 Patrick Butler, Melyssa Fleming

Touching Story of Long-Lost Siblings

I was one of Patrick's instructors during cosmetology school and had no idea that he went through this experience. I'm so glad he and Melyssa shared the raw truth of their struggles because, I know their story will be able to help others who have suffered childhood trauma, family dysfunction and/or separation. Thank you for taking us through your journey of healing.