National Infertility Awareness Week

It occurs to me that I know only a few people who have had no trouble conceiving and carrying babies. So, in honor of those of us for whom conception and live babies don't come naturally, I would like to salute the following people:

My sister, who married late, and decided after a year of unsuccessful trying, that intervention was not for her. Thank you for bringing two of the smartest, most adorable, most hilarious little girls from China to be a part of our family.

My friends J and S. The first people I knew who had to terminate a pregnancy due to a severe defect. They were totally undeserving of such sadness. Now, they have 2 beautiful children.

My friends M and D. Their first pregnancy ended in an early miscarriage. Their second pregnancy occurred at the same time I was having my miscarriages, so it was bittersweet for me. Their son was born 3 weeks early. Their daughter was born 2 weeks early. They both had breathing issues at birth. Their second son was born this month, and had some sort of infection. I hope they're done having children, as I can no longer take the stress.

My friends M and G. M tried so hard for so long to have children. She finally went for treatments, and happily gave birth to twin girls. I saw her heart breaking every time she saw a baby and I am so happy she got her dream.

My aunt M. For probably 7 years, she tried to have a baby. She and my uncle eventually adopted. But they never gave up, and 8 years later, after at least one D&C (that I know of, but I was only 10 at the time), succeeded in having a successful pregnancy.

To all of us who have suffered a loss, be it a miscarriage, a chemical pregnancy, a still birth, or the death of a child. While we have gotten to experience the joy of a pregnancy for at least some duration, we understand the difficulties involved in creating the family of which we dream.

Finally, to all of those who have not yet realized their dream. My hope for you is that it will not take you much longer.