My dear friends Scott and Katie are beginning a journey that many hopeful parents know all too well—the IVF process. I’m honored to support them as they take this brave, emotional, and expensive step toward building the family they’ve dreamed of for so long, with so much love and hope. Below is their story.

Scott and Katie’s Story: A Journey of Hope, Love, and Longing

Meet Scott and Katie — two kind, compassionate music teachers from Omaha, Nebraska. Married for 11 years, their lives have been a beautiful duet of love, service, and unwavering dedication to children. Beyond their classrooms, they have opened their hearts and home to the foster care system, parenting eight children over the years and providing each one with love, stability, and hope.

Their story is deeply rooted in love — the kind that endures loss and keeps going.

In 2015, Scott and Katie faced an unimaginable heartbreak when they lost their infant son, Bennett Samuel. His short life left a profound mark on their hearts. In the years that followed, they walked through grief with courage and grace, holding onto the hope of one day expanding their family again.

The Journey to Grow Their Family

In 2018, Scott and Katie felt ready to try again. But month after month, year after year, their dream of having another child slipped further from reach. Through countless doctor visits, tests, and hard conversations, they continued to hope — even when it hurt.

After nearly seven years of trying to conceive naturally, they began exploring what it might look like to pursue IVF. It wasn’t a quick decision. It came after years of reflection, prayers, and late-night talks filled with both vulnerability and determination. Finally, they’ve arrived at a place of clarity and courage: IVF is the path forward.

Why We’re Asking for Help

IVF is a medical and emotional journey — and it's also a financial one. As dedicated public school teachers, Scott and Katie have poured their lives into serving others, but the cost of IVF is far beyond their reach alone.

They don’t take this ask lightly. It’s incredibly vulnerable to share something so personal and to ask for help. But if you feel moved to give — whether it’s a financial gift or simply sharing their story — it would mean the world to them.

Every donation, no matter the size, is a note in the symphony of support that can help bring their long-awaited child into the world.

Thank you for reading, and for being a part of Scott and Katie’s story.

With love and gratitude,

Leslie & Jeremy Palensky / Team Scott & Katie