Totally Freaked! Dad Issues!?

Ok let me start at the beginning. I'm 17 years old and I've never known my dad. He has always been out of the picture. Like most people in my situation, I've always been curious about meeting him. But it has been nagging more at me lately. Anyway, earlier today, I was talking to my mum about it today and it just occured to her that someone she knows may know where my dad is. This is a total shock for me, but I now don't know what to do. I mean, I still really want to find my dad, but I don't want to risk the heartache and rejection all over again. Can any of you give me some advice?