Surrogate Spotlight: Whitney

This week, we asked Whitney what brought her to surrogacy and to share a few words of wisdom about her journey thus far.

1) What made you decide to become a surrogate?

A few years ago my close friend was attempting to get pregnant through assisted reproduction. Before I watched her go through this experience, I was naive to the challenges and struggles the LGBTQ community faces to create something that happened so easily for me...a family. I knew I had to do whatever I could to help, and being a gestational surrogate was an easy conclusion. It has been one of the best decisions I've made so far in life. Through surrogacy, I'm teaching my children that families come in different shapes and sizes. It has shown them that we give to others what they can't acquire themselves and that the most important thing in life is to be the change you want to see in the world.

2) What stage are you in your journey?

Next week we will be transferring two little embryos and we're extremely excited!

3) Why did you choose AFS and how has your experience been?

The reason I chose AFS over other agencies is simple: support. Hands down they were the absolute most supportive agency I connected with. They are always prompt via email, text, or phone call and I always get a response within a few minutes. On top of that, when I'm feeling overwhelmed, sad, or just need advice, they're there for me. Every single appointment I've gone to at the fertility clinic, someone from AFS has met with me to make sure I'm doing OK. AFS makes surrogates feel as though we're valuable assets in a partnership with them and the IPs. I feel like my voice is heard and respected through the whole process.

4) What is one piece of wisdom you would pass on to another potential surrogate?

Surrogacy isn't without struggles. It can truly be a roller coaster ride on your psyche. From worrying about the outcome of a home visit, fretting over the results of a psych evaluation, negotiating contracts and discussing ethically challenging details, and learning with your IPs that you're not pregnant...again. We have to brace ourselves for any potential outcome. A strong support system is critical for self care and mental stability through your journey. But the good absolutely outweighs the bad.

5) How would you describe your best day ever?

My best day ever would have to be lying on a beach somewhere soaking up the sun and watching my family play in the water...all while sipping a mimosa of course!