An Insightful Journey Into the Hedrick Surname Through iGENEA DNA Testing
Family name Hedrick
Following an intriguing and enlightening experience with iGENEA's DNA testing service, I have gained a deeper understanding of the origins and history associated with the Hedrick surname. Employing autosomal DNA, maternal lineage and paternal lineage tests, the results unveiled my ancestors' geographical and sociocultural identities with over 99% accuracy.
After engaging the DNA testing services of iGENEA, I have moved further in my journey of tracing the origins and history of my last name, Hedrick. This transformative experience has provided a more in-depth understanding of my ancestors' geographical and sociocultural identities. Starting from an autosomal DNA test, I then explored a maternal lineage test (Mitochondrial DNA test) and a paternal lineage test (Y-DNA test). The maternal test evaluated mitochondrial DNA which is passed unchanged from mothers to both sons and daughters. The Y-DNA test traced the patrilineal ancestry, which follows the Y chromosome. As women do not carry a Y chromosome, only men can undertake this test.
The technical aspect of the process involved the use of iGENEA’s test kit to take a painless swab of cells from the inside of my cheek. The sample was then sent to the laboratory for genotyping - the process of determining differences in the genetic make-up (genotype) via the individuals DNA sequence. iGENEA uses SNP (Single Nucleotide Polymorphism) markers for Y-chromosome testing and another called HVR (Hypervariable Region) for mitochondrial testing. The results were impressive, with over a 99% accuracy rate. This is largely attributable to the high level of technical sophistication and rigorous controls employed by iGENEA in their testing procedures.
The genealogical findings have deepened the mystery of the Hedrick ancestry, even as they have brought me closer to understanding it. Surprisingly, my maternal test unveiled North African roots which I had previously been unaware of. The Y-DNA test also pointed toward a strong presence in the Germanic regions of Europe, which aligns with initial research on the Hedrick surname. I also discovered connections in lesser-known areas, revealing the rich tapestry of my lineage.
The whole experience, made flawless via the expertise of iGENEA, helped me delve into my roots, gaining a better understanding of my unique identity. It's been an enlightening journey that has reinforced my bond with the past, appreciated the present, and left me excited about the undefined shape of the future.
M. Hedrick