Helping The Pena's Get Their Miracle Baby (IVF)

Since we were young girls my sister would often share her dreams of marrying her prince and becoming a mother, but not just any mother she wanted to be the best and raise her children to honor and know God just as we were raised. When she was 15 years old she met her best friend, Carlos Pena, at a church youth camp. At the time I wasn't too sure about this boy that was taking up all of my sister's attention, but I liked how sweet he was to her and how he loved God and encouraged Brandie through some very difficult times. I remember the day he asked her to be his girlfriend. They both walked into the house with the biggest smiles and I already knew... She was his.

 

 

These two were inseparable. During their time dating, they endured so many pains, losses, healings, and victories together. (I personally believe the biggest miracle for them was surviving a 7-year long-distance relationship! lol)

 

 

Then it happened! Carlos finally proposed and the two became one on September 23, 2017. (I never cried so much in my life!) It was a beautiful night and the start of an amazing journey for them. She did it! She married her prince. They bought their first home in 2019 and were ready to start on those babies she always talked about. Unfortunately, the journey to parenthood isn't as easy as we had hoped.

 

 

Infertility affects 10% to 15% of couples in the United States. The World Health Organization stated, "Every human being has a right to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health. Individuals and couples have the right to decide the number, timing, and spacing of their children." Infertility can negate the realization of these essential human rights. On top of that, adequate and affordable infertility treatment is lacking. Most insurances don’t cover it and treatment is very costly. One treatment for IVF is $15,000 and most couples require more than one treatment.

 

My sister has tried every supplement, advice, and alternative available to her. She and her husband have prayed and fasted throughout this time relentlessly. She's had a few miscarriages and ectopic pregnancies, and yet they still remain faithful that God will provide. They are desperate for their miracle baby. (Who I affectionately call Holly Pena, like the chile.) Witnessing my loved ones go through this has been so hard. I greatly admire them for their strength and love during a time of pain. They are so beautiful together and would be the most amazing parents. I know God has a plan for them, but the financial and emotional burden of this journey has taken a toll.

 

Brandie was so excited to start her first treatment of IVF in October. The latest report, from 2018, shows that 50% of IVF procedures in women ages 35 and under resulted in a live birth. ( A welcomed piece of hope!) The shots were painful and the medicine made her sick, but her desire for a baby was greater. On her follow-up appointment, November 6, 2021, the doctor was called into the examination room to tell her that it was unsuccessful. (Another heartbreak.)

 

 

Brandie and Carlos are an amazing, kind, caring, God-fearing couple that wants so badly to start their family. I ask for your help to be a blessing to them with any amount of donation to ease the financial burden. Please continue to pray for the Penas. We will continue to serve the God of miracles and trust Him completely.