I've been following this forum since March and I have been helped enormously and been inspired by so many life stories. I haven't put much on here lately about myself though but I've been here and responded to some worried people and given advice where I could.
I was one of the lucky ones in that our IVF was successful first time around. We had unexplained infertility but even with no major health worries it was a long process just getting there. So the relief of the success was indescribable.
So we're now 24 weeks and we're expecting a little boy. It still seems surreal most of the time but then I am dramatically reminded when A: I look in the mirror and see him growing (!) and B: when I am typing over my bump and C: when the little bugger kicks!!
IVF is a tough journey and then you have the journey of pregnancy which in my eyes is another miracle. Throughout everything I have tried to remain as calm and relaxed as possible (with the odd ups and downs)! I think this has helped me and my body to cope with everything that has been thrown at us.
I just wanted to give back some positives to all you wonderful people who have shared your stories and heartache and joy in a way that has made this journey for me so much more reassuring. When you find someone you know who has been through similar experiences it makes you feel a bit more 'normal' and that in itself brings confidence and self esteem.
I have vague recollections now of the injections and scans and being prodded and pulled about: it was clearly all worth it and in the long run has given me what I started out to achieve.
I have been well throughout my pregnancy and the little one appears to be doing very well. I will let you know how it goes and will still be here to support you all in my own little way.
Look after yourselves, be kind to your mind and body and don't forget those around you who love you especially your other halves!! It's not easy sometimes finding that balance but when you do it just makes sense.