My name is Tara. And, I’m reaching out for my little sister.

This is Karyl. My one & only little sister that always looked up to me when we were growing up. Throughout her younger life, she strived to always succeed. Time & time again, I’ve seen her come out on top. She graduated with a masters degree, she purchased a home, and she set up her retirement plans. If she knew about her fertility issues earlier, life might have worked out a little differently. Now, she’s struggling. I have seen the worry in her face when she talks to me. She tries to hide it and smile through the fear, but I see it. She’s afraid of not having the family she’s waited for all her life.

Karyl has always wanted to have a big family of her own. Children have always been drawn to her as her to them. She never had a problem making babies smile. Karyl’s affinity for children inspired her career choice as she studied to be a teacher. For many years after graduating, she worked as a substitute teacher. You could see the pride she shared with parents of her students when they succeeded or excelled in the classroom. She, now, has found herself in a career striving to help children in troubled homes; she spends her time with kids of all ages, working to better their lives.

After spending over $10K this past year, Karyl sought after another doctor for another opinion. She was told her chances of conceiving are not good with her current therapies and procedures. She’s endured several failed IUIs. I could feel her heart aching after she received that news.

There is still a chance though. She was told that IVF was ideal for her situation. She’s ready to max out her credit, and take out loans. She said there’s no price on something so priceless. She’s a loving person and puts family ahead of herself. Family is important. And, she’s important to me.

After many appointments and procedures, she finally has a tentative IVF date—the beginning of the new year. Exciting news! However, a single IVF cycle—defined as ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval and embryo transfer—can range from $15,000 to $30,000, depending on the center and the patient’s medication needs. Karyl doesn’t need the added stress of any future financial burdens that she’s been concerned about. I want her to focus on serenity and good energy to give her the best chances of a positive outcome.

This would be a lovely and awesome Christmas gift. She deserves it. I’m asking for everyone to be the village she needs during this time in her life. 

Merry Christmas