Jim, I don't know you and everyone has already given you good advice. So, I'll just say

Wow. What an email that must have been. And the thoughts that must be racing thru your mind about now.

if ya think she is yours then embrace her with all your love,if not then do a paternity test,if she turns out not yours then ask her if she has any older friends that like fat bald guys from ks.

good luck Jim

Best of luck, Jim.

I didn't see it but maybe I missed it. What type of relationship does this girl want? 17 years without...I could see her contacting you merely out of curiosity. Hope things work out for both of you but maybe think of contacting a counselor of some type. I would guess you would want things to go right if she is your daughter and for her to stay in your life. Sad to say but it's possible that won't happen. Prepare yourself for that possibility or guard against it by using a professional who is schooled in this sort of thing.

Best of luck to you.