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Our Story of Embryo Adoption
My husband and I were married in May 2006 and became pregnant that September with our first child. Our beautiful, daughter Alyssa was born in May 2007 at 34 weeks and diagnosed with a rare genetic condition called Emanuel Syndrome (partial Trisomy 22) at two weeks old.
Alyssa, had numerous surgeries during her 5 months of life and passed away in October 2007. My husband and I were grateful for the support of family and friends during the loss of our daughter. We decided to wait to have another child after the loss of our daughter due to health issues and finances.
My husband was diagnosed as the carrier of Emanuel Syndrome after the loss of our daughter. I was diagnosed with Diminished Ovarian Reserve and learned it would be impossible for us to have biological children.
My OB/GYN had suggested trying IVF/PGD due to the genetic condition. We had a consult with one of the best doctors in the area, but decided to wait. I then went to visit a Reproductive Endocrinologist and discussed my available options. He suggested we use an egg donor with the possibility of having another child with a genetic issue. So, we decided to try an IUI, but had no success.
We then heard about embryo adoption. It was incredible to learn that there was such an amazing (and affordable) option available for couples like us. Could actually experience pregnancy with an adopted child? It almost seemed too good to be true.
We started our search, and ended up using NEDC in Knoxville, TN as our agency. We had to travel to Tennessee for a consult with the doctor to determine if I would be capable of carrying a pregnancy. During this visit the I underwent a physical exam and “trial transfer” to check for any physical barriers which might impede the actual embryo transfer or pregnancy. Once the family assessment was completed and reviewed, we received the donor profiles that fit our wish list.
We had to make a second trip to Tennessee for the actual embryo transfer. So, we decided to make the seven hour trip a few days prior to do some sightseeing. We went to the Smoky Mountains, which were breathtaking, and the following day we met up with my Aunt and Uncle from Chicago to visit with them.
We had our first frozen embryo transfer in September 2012, which happened to be my parent’s anniversary. I learned that I was pregnant on the anniversary of our first daughter’s death, which was a blessing in disguise. The ultrasound a couple weeks later showed one perfect baby! And a few months later, we found out we were having another girl. Baby Megan was born in May 2013 on her Great-Grandmothers birthday.
Embryo adoption has forever changed our lives and we wouldn’t have our beautiful baby girl if it wasn’t for this incredible path. I love to talk about this option for other people undergoing infertility.
~ Jennifer