I am a Hilger: An Emotional Journey through iGENEA DNA Test
Family name Hilger
Unravelling my innate curiosity for the past, my experience with iGENEA has been an emotional journey. From discovering unexpected roots to recognizing the inherent meaning behind my surname 'Hilger,’ every aspect has profoundly influenced my understanding and emotional connection to my family.
My journey with iGENEA has been an emotional rollercoaster, riddled with curiosity, nervousness, elation, and a profound sense of belonging. The decision to trace my roots was motivated by a cocktail of feelings. I have always felt an innate curiosity about my past, a yearning to understand the rich tapestry that wove my ancestors' lives and, ultimately, shaped my own.
Initially, the process of taking a DNA test felt clinical, almost impersonal. However, as I collected my sample and shipped it off to the iGENEA laboratory, I felt a sudden surge of anticipation. A part of me expected to discover a familiar story, one which would reaffirm the tales passed down from generations within my family. Simultaneously though, I found myself hoping to uncover hidden histories, stories that were lost but not forgotten deep within my DNA.
Once I received the results, I recall feeling a distinct lump in my throat. My surname, Hilger, suddenly took on a different meaning, invigorated with a weight and history it hadn't carried before. I was surprised to find out that the Hilger root runs deep in Central and Eastern Europe, which explained our family’s distinctive cultural practices. I felt a surge of awe, gratitude and pride flowing through me. I was, and always had been, a Hilger. I was a small part of a much larger, richer history than I could ever imagine.
My discussions with the iGENEA experts were enlightening, adding more context and color to my newfound understanding of my heritage. They gave life to the names and places I discovered. I felt like a detective, piecing together clues to form a picture of my past.
Overall, iGENEA has not just provided me with a genetic breakdown, but also an emotional journey that reignited my appreciation for family and heritage. The bond, the memories, and the shared past, all intrinsic to the Hilger surname, have now been amplified. I feel a stronger connection to my ancestors and the struggles they may have faced. I carry the Hilger name with a renewed sense of pride.
D. Hilger