National Infertility Awareness Week is in full swing! And I can’t let the occasion go by without stopping for a moment to pause and reflect. Greg and I have been open about our difficulties to conceive and it has been such a blessing to share our story — our ups and downs — with all of you. It is not always easy to be vulnerable about such a sensitive subject. But by choosing to open up about our infertility and IVF journey, we have received so much love and support from friends, family, and even a wider community that, while we may not know them personally, they know our struggle, because they have been there, or still are there, too.
I truly believe that no one should suffer with infertility in silence. There is no need for embarrassment or shame. It shouldn’t be taboo. Infertility is a disease, one that affects 1 in 8 couples, and as sad and as lonely as it can feel, infertile couples should know: They are not alone. When I decided to open up our story to a larger audience by starting this blog, and posting on Facebook and Instagram, I was overwhelmed by the comments and messages that came in from people I know who, it seemed, were so happy and relieved to say, “Yes! Me too!” You never know how sharing your story might impact or inspire someone else. Even for those who have not had to endure the heartbreak of infertility, sharing your experience might help them become a more compassionate and understanding friend.
As with any disease, increased awareness is a good thing and I love that the #NIAW theme this year is #ListenUp! Women (and men) need to listen to their bodies and know how infertility can affect them and when it is time to see a fertility specialist. The infertile should feel empowered to share their stories and their friends and family should listen (not advise, or diminish their emotions) with open hearts and minds. (This Infertility Etiquette tip sheet is excellent!)
There are many ways to resolve infertility; there are many ways to make a family. But they all begin with love. While I’d never choose infertility, I’ve learned and grown immensely along the journey. I am so thankful that assisted reproductive technology like IVF exists. I am indebted to the nurses and doctors who guided us and helped us reach our dream. And my heart overflows with gratitude for the physical and online community that poured strength and encouragement into my husband and I before, during and after our IVF cycle — all because I decided to share and they chose to #ListenUp.
Learn more at infertilityawareness.org.
No comments:
Post a Comment