Fiona’s story is a testament to resilience, determination, and the unwavering pursuit of her dream to become a mother. At the age of 41, Fiona made the decision to freeze her eggs, setting the stage for her future parenting journey. Two years later, at 43, she embarked on the next step of her fertility journey using IVF with a sperm donor. Her experience at Harley Street Fertility Clinic is one filled with challenges, triumphs, and invaluable lessons.
Navigating Fertility Treatment During a Pandemic
Beginning her IVF journey during the COVID-19 pandemic added layers of complexity. With her background in resilience training, Fiona was uniquely equipped to face these challenges head-on. “It was both the easiest decision I ever made, and really difficult at the same time,” she recalls, highlighting the emotional and societal challenges she faced as a single mother by choice. Despite these hurdles, her expertise and background in behavioural and neuroscience helped her focus on what truly mattered: “Letting go of the things you can’t control” and maintaining the belief that “If you believe it, things happen.”
Overcoming Setbacks with Resilience
Fiona’s initial experience at the clinic wasn’t without its hiccups. She encountered some issues with the administration around her treatment, and these were swiftly resolved through open discussions. However, her encounters with Rachel and Dr Verstraete were pivotal. “The minute I went upstairs and met Rachel and Dr Verstraete, I felt they were truly, genuinely invested in being a part of my success,” she shares. Dr Verstraete’s pragmatic approach, even during setbacks, reinforced Fiona’s trust and determination. “She was amazing. It can’t be easy to have those difficult phone calls saying it hasn’t worked this time. I trusted her knowledge, and I only had one shot to get it right.”
Taking a Step Back to Move Forward
After 8 months of negative treatments, Fiona’s inner strength and resilience shone through. In September, she decided to take a much-needed break from treatment. This pause allowed her mind and body to reset, ensuring she was at her best for the next attempt. In October, success finally came her way. “There’s a lot to be said for stepping back and giving yourself time,” Fiona reflects. The support she received from Rachel and Dr Verstraete made her feel like they were truly in this journey together.
Welcoming OT: A Dream Realised
Fiona’s perseverance resulted in the birth of her son, Oliver Thomas, affectionately called OT. Her journey offers hope and inspiration to others considering a similar path. Her messages to other aspiring mums are filled with practical advice and encouragement:
- Budget Wisely: The costs can exceed initial expectations, so plan for at least 50% more.
- Trust the Process: You don’t need symptoms to receive a BFP (big fat positive).
- Be Prepared for the Unexpected: During embryo transfer (FET), the blastocyst might stick to the needle, requiring a redo. This doesn’t affect your pregnancy chances.
- Practice Patience: Let go of what you can’t control. A journey with IVF involves many uncertainties.
- Avoid Comparisons: Everyone’s journey is unique. Focus on doing one small thing to improve your situation daily instead of getting stuck comparing your journey to someone else’s.
- Understand the Odds: Creating embryos after 40 can be unpredictable.
- Handle Side Effects: Cylogest may ruin underwear but washing them in boiling water helps!
Fiona’s story is a beacon of hope for many. Her journey through fertility treatment at Harley Street Fertility Clinic underscores the importance of resilience, the power of support, and the joy of realising a long-awaited dream. As she embraces motherhood, Fiona’s experience continues to inspire those who walk a similar path, offering them courage and wisdom.
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