We have always known we wanted a family. We both come from big families (Byron 4 kids, Sarah 5 kids) and loved our childhoods. Even when we were dating, we would talk and dream about kids in the future. We wanted to follow the "normal" of being married for at least a year before trying for a family. We are both glad for that time with just the two of us and without the stress of not being able to conceive right away. But that's what no one tells you when you plan your family. You don't plan on infertility. You see others having babies so easily and never dream you will be one of the couples with problems in this area. We sometimes trick ourselves into thinking we have control of the situation and plan accordingly. We have walked with close friends through infertility and have seen firsthand the heartbreak. Then it was our turn for heartbreak. Month after month. The roller coaster of emotions.

After a year of trying naturally, we sought answers at a local fertility clinic. Our minds raced with the worst-case scenarios.

After getting our test results back, we were diagnosed with Male Factor Infertility. We tried hard to concentrate on the rest of the conversation as the doctor talked about other options such as adoption, sperm donor, etc. But, we weren't prepared to hear those options yet. We weren't ready to have our dreams dashed of having biological children.

Then she mentioned another option for Byron's condition. FNA mapping. We’ll spare you the details, but in short, it’s exploratory surgery. Of course, we made an appointment as soon as possible, and after a few months, I found myself waiting for Byron to come out of the procedure. One more month passed as we waited for results. Finally, the doctor called with good news. We cried happy tears and let a few friends and family know who had been praying with us on this journey.

Fertility treatment comes with an overwhelming price tag. We researched and learned of a cheaper, more straightforward surgery for Byron that we could try first. We were filled with hope as we packed our bags and headed out of state to another fertility clinic to give it a try. That surgery was unsuccessful. We were heartbroken but immediately spoke with our doctor in Seattle to discuss the next step. We have one option left that is here in Seattle that would involve surgery for Byron and, if that is successful, IVF treatment directly afterward.

We have invested so much into treatment and testing to this point. We are also so thankful for a few family and friends who have generously given to us after hearing our story. We are humbly asking for your help too! We are so thankful for your support, whether financially or praying for us! We hope that maybe this will encourage others going through infertility to know that you’re not alone.

Thank you for reading a bit of our story. We appreciate your prayers and support!

Love,

Sarah & Byron