My Adoption Journey

I began pursuing motherhood about 7 years ago. I tried IUI (intrauterine insemination) three times with no success. I then began the IVF (in vitro fertilization) procedures. After three attempts I was able to conceive but the baby was very ill and the pregnancy determined to be unviable. My infertility doctor advised me to try IVF using donor eggs, which I did. The cost of obtaining the donor eggs was $13,000. Although I had 15 viable embryos, it was determined after several more IVF attempts that my uterus was too damaged from the loss of the first pregnancy to carry a pregnancy. After grieving the loss of the pregnancy and the ability to carry a child, I decided to pursue adoption. I began working with an agency in Oak Park. My home study was underway and approximately $11,000 invested in the process when the agency went under financially and I lost all but $1,500 of my investment. I began working with another agency, but had to start from the beginning. I was able with help from my parents to come up with the money for another home study and additional fees for training, licensing, etc. Finally, with the help of an adoption consulting firm, I was matched with a birth mom in February! It is estimated that the total cost for the adoption will be approximately $34,000. I am $13,000 short of what I need to finalize the adoption next month and have exhausted my options.

Any financial contributions you are able to make to help bring my dream home is appreciated beyond words. All I've ever wanted is to be a Mom.