Amanda 

My story starts back in Aug 2020 when my doctors discovered a blood clot (DVT) in my leg. I started working out as a result of this and lost 100 pounds.  

In May 2021, I feared I had another clot. Thankfully not, but I was diagnosed with May Thurner Syndrome, which is a condition where your iliac artery is compressing your iliac vein, making it hard for blood to return. I had a stent placed to open the left vein and a venoplasty done on the right side.

Single mom by choice

With this diagnosis came some tough discussions about having children. I have always wanted kids on my own, but “Mr. Right” never came around. I was told by my doctors that due to my clotting disorder, I needed to have kids before 32 (I was 28 when I got this news).  

So off to SGF I went to become a single mom by choice.  

I knew I would be considered high risk as I would have to be on blood thinners throughout the entire process.  

I ended up giving myself over 700 shots throughout the entire process. I worked closely with the doctors and nurses and in Sept of 2021, I had my first failed intrauterine insemination (IUI).  

It did not seem like a big deal, so I tried again next cycle and it worked! I was so happy. But unfortunately, it ended in an early loss, and I was diagnosed with unexplained infertility.  

After that I was devastated but eager to pick up and try again.  

Moving on to IVF and finding a rainbow

The third IUI failed, so Dr. Bromer and I decided to move forward with in vitro fertilization (IVF).  

The SGF care team was great and picked the protocol that was best for me and clotting disorder. They took the time to come up with a plan that worked for me. We were able to get two perfect embryos from my one and only IVF cycle at 30 years old. I did a fresh transfer with one and froze the other.  

Well, that little embryo resulted in my miracle baby. Londyn Rae was born one year to the day of my D&C. I call her my rainbow-unicorn-miracle baby.  

The doctors and nurses at SGF were truly outstanding and caring. From blood drawings, to miscarriage, to my graduation day, they felt all the emotions with me. There is nothing better in this world than being a mom and you all helped me get there. 

There are no words to describe what it feels like to have my baby after all I went through to get her here. It’s a feeling and experience like I’ve never had. And I hope that anyone who wants to be a mom gets to in one way or another. It’s truly incredible. 

Advice for those considering single parenthood

If you are thinking about it, go for it! I have no regrets and it’s the best thing I have ever done. Some days are hard, but that’s life. I am so lucky and have friends and family who are very involved and supportive. Find your village and have that baby!