Adopted Women Discovered They Were Biological Sisters

A DNA test revealed that two women adopted from India to the Netherlands are siblings.

Updated on Sept. 27, 2026 in Friendships

Gouache-painted editorial illustration of two intertwined silk ribbons in saffron, green, red, white, and blue, representing a biological connection.
Meena Geltink and Minal Tijssen, two women adopted from India to the Netherlands, confirmed through a DNA test that they are biological sisters. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Meena Geltink and Minal Tijssen discovered in April 2026 that they are biological sisters after a DNA test confirmed a 100% match. The pair, now 43 and 44, were both adopted from India to the Netherlands.

Why it matters

This reunion highlights the often-unforeseen connections formed through genealogy testing among adoptees. It marks a significant personal milestone for the two women after they initially met as teenagers without knowing their biological link.

The sisters, aged 43 and 44, identified their relationship through a MyHeritage DNA test that produced a 100% match. They had previously lived only 100 miles apart during their teenage years.

The players

Meena Geltink

She is a 43-year-old woman who was adopted from India to the Netherlands.

Minal Tijssen

She is a 44-year-old woman who resides in France and was adopted from India to the Netherlands.

The details

The women initially met in 1996 at an adoption gathering and reconnected after Minal Tijssen received a DNA notification on her phone. They confirmed their identities by comparing photographs on social media before holding a formal reunion in the Netherlands.

Timeline

  1. The two women met at an adoption gathering in 1996.

  2. The sisters discovered their biological connection in April 2026.

  3. A reunion was held in the Netherlands in September 2026.

Culture Shift

This discovery follows a pattern set by the increased use of consumer DNA databases to help international adoptees locate biological family members. Such reunions illustrate how modern technology is reshaping traditional narratives surrounding international adoption and identity.

For adoptees considering DNA testing, this story demonstrates the potential for unexpected life-changing results. Individuals should be prepared for significant emotional outcomes when utilizing commercial genealogy platforms.

The takeaway

This case underscores how DNA testing can provide long-awaited answers for those separated from their biological families early in life. Adoptees exploring their heritage are encouraged to use reputable testing services while preparing for the possibility of life-altering connections.

Further reading

Learn more about the evolving nature of social bonds in Friendships.

Source note: This article includes information reported by Daily Sun.

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Do you trust DNA testing services to accurately reveal unknown biological family connections?

Adopted Women Discovered They Were Biological Sisters