Hey my name is Rashelle! My husband Shannon and I are sharing our story because we’re at an important point in our journey to grow our family and we could really use some help.

We’ve been trying to conceive since November 2024. I’m already a mom, and together we’re raising two beautiful girls!! Our girls often talk about wanting another sibling, and while our home is full of love, it truly feels like someone is missing. We have experienced both pregnancy loss and infant loss in the past, which makes this journey incredibly meaningful, emotional, and deeply personal for our family.

Over the last year, my cycles have been very irregular, ranging from 31 to 56 days. Ovulation has been unpredictable and often much later than it should be.

It took 3 attempts at finding the right OB/GYN… I spent months trying to explain my symptoms and was made to feel like I was overthinking things, even though I had all data, just asking for guidance.

 My OB strongly suspects that I may be dealing with PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome). Overall, my cycle pattern suggests infrequent and delayed ovulation.

Right now, I’m actively tracking ovulation on my own by:

• Using LH test strips

• Tracking basal body temperature (BBT)

• Using PDG tests when I can’t get in for a lab draw to confirm ovulation

I’ve been doing everything I can on my own, but it’s clear that medical testing is necessary to truly understand my ovulation quality, progesterone support, and hormone balance while trying to conceive.

My OB ordered extensive blood work, another pelvic ultrasound, and explained that before we can move forward with any possible fertility treatments.

The next required steps include:

• An HSG (hysterosalpingogram) to make sure my fallopian tubes are open and my uterus is healthy

• A semen analysis for my husband, which is self-pay since he does not have insurance

• Follow-up appointments to review results and determine a plan

While I do have state insurance, fertility-related testing and treatments are often only partially covered or not covered at all. The HSG is covered by my insurance but the semen analysis typically costs $100–$300 out of pocket. Also If ovulation support is needed, I may also need medications like Clomid or Letrozole. I plan to use GoodRx through any Pharmacy whenever possible to reduce medication costs.

Our goal is not IVF or extreme intervention. We are simply trying to understand what’s going on with my body, support ovulation as naturally as possible, and prepare for the healthiest pregnancy we can. Before we can move forward, these diagnostic tests are essential and right now, finances are the biggest barrier.

This fundraiser is to help cover these necessary next steps so we’re not stuck in limbo after working so hard just to be heard. Any support… donating, sharing, or even just sending encouragement  truly means more to us than we can put into words.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read our story and for supporting our family in any way.

With love and gratitude,

Rashelle & Shannon