Why do you want to share your story?
I think it is really important to share my story so that others know that embryo adoption exists as an option. When I first started going through infertility treatments, I had always heard of donor eggs but never embryo adoption. Even when I first started connecting with potential embryo donors, we were the only couple I knew who were going through the process. I even have an infertility Instagram account and I think I followed maybe two people who had gone through embryo adoption (out of about 800 followers) I want to help others know this is an option, help them with the process along the way and make them not feel so isolated or alone.
What led you to Fertility Centers of Illinois?
I had a friend who saw a doctor there years ago. I had gone there for two rounds of in vitro fertilization (IVF) with Dr. Rodgers, then switched clinics for one round and ended up coming right back. The experience at the other clinic was not great. My home office cared so much about my journey from the front desk to the phlebotomist to my nurse and especially Dr. Rodgers. I did not have the experience elsewhere.
How would you describe your experience with your physician?
Dr. Rodgers had so many patients but she was so invested in each one. She really listened to my concerns and we brainstormed together with every treatment. I have gotten several personal phone calls and emails from her throughout the process and that meant the world to me. She was great at explaining things to my husband or mom when they would join me for appointments and I never felt rushed and always felt my needs and concerns were a priority.
What helped you get through treatment?
My husband helped me get through so much. Looking back I couldn’t imagine how he felt seeing his wife go through all of this. My parents and siblings always reached out with encouraging words and texts to check-in. My brothers and sister in law all came to the hospital after my miscarriage which I know was not easy, but it meant the world to me to see them and have their support. Our dogs laid in bed with me after egg retrievals and surgeries and multiple days following my miscarriage. They always knew when I needed them there.
Do you have any words of hope for others?
My only words of wisdom are to follow your heart. Don’t listen to other opinions on what to do. I had some people tell me embryo adoption was odd or maybe I should consider traditional adoption, but I knew what was in my heart. Also, find others going through treatments. I have met some incredible women who have helped me so much during this journey. They have encouraged me, gave me advice, talked about their treatments. It has helped so much to have someone who knows exactly what you are going through.
Tell us about your little miracle!
Jude is seven months old and very silly! He loves to talk all the time and he loves laughing at daddy and his two puppies. Jude enjoys bath time and makes quite the mess with his splashing. He likes all music from Twinkle Twinkle little star to Bruno Mars to The Beatles. He is the biggest blessing and we feel so lucky he choose us to be his parents. After all the years of tears and disappointment, he makes everything make sense!
