Moving on...

Dear Family and Friends,

We wanted to give everyone an update on journey to become parents. As most of you know, we have been trying since October of 2007. We have been working with a Reproductive Endocrinologist (aka infertility specialist) since January of this year. We have tried a number of lower tech procedures with no success. After taking a break from treatments this summer to mend our broken hearts, we have decided to move forward with In Vitro Fertilization (IVF).

What is IVF? Simply stated, IVF involves collecting eggs and sperm and placing them together in a laboratory dish for fertilization. Days later, the microscopic embryos are transferred into the uterus where implantation and pregnancy will hopefully occur, as in a normal pregnancy.The IVF procedure usually occurs over a 6-week time span. Here’s a good link that explains exactly what happens during an IVF cycle. http://www.rscbayarea.com/assisted_reproductive_technology_art/countdown_to_ivf.html

IVF was always something that was way out in the future...the last resort.....the end of the insurance coverage....the final chance. We feel very lucky that we have insurance coverage to cover a large majority of the $13,000 fee….most couples don’t. Like most infertility patients, we are fighting fear and doubt with our optimism and hope. We know our chances of success are higher (@50%) than anything we have tried before, but there is always the possibility that it might not work. Even a perfect cycle may not lead to conception. But it could, and that's good enough for us.

I started birth control pills (BCP) this week to get the process started. It’s crazy….I know. But BCP will start suppressing my ovaries so that they can then be kick-started with mega doses of hormones to produce multiple eggs. I will be having an out-patient surgery procedure on the 26th to do some baby factory remodeling. Then, the search will begin for the perfect tenant(s) who would like to sign a 9 month lease!!

Brian and I feel very humbled that we are able to watch and learn as my body goes through changes and steps to help create the miracle of life. It is just extraordinary. We have a great team of doctors, nurses, and embryologists on our side. I'm reminded everyday that God has given us many tools and technology, but in the end, He is the greatest physician. He is the creator of life, and He alone can make this happen.

We have experienced so many ups and downs along our journey. We so desperately want to be parents. With infertility treatments there is so little that is sacred, secret or special. We want and need to talk about it with our family and friends. Your questions guide us and help us make our decisions, your encouragement helps us take another step forward, and your listening ear reminds us that we are not alone. We invite your prayers, positive thoughts, and good vibes. I’ll be updating our blog periodically with updates on the progress of our IVF journey (www.jbkennyfamily.blogspot.com). IVF is often misunderstood and we hope that you can learn along side of us. Rest assured that we will keep you all posted when we're ready to share the news (good or bad)!