Future Phelan Fund

UPDATE:

Hello Again, Everyone.

It's been awhile since our last update. A lot has happened in 6 months. As I'm sure many of you are aware, the February transfer did not go as planned. After the loss of the first embryo from the new donor family, our doctor suggested we try a relatively new procedure called an ERA biopsy which would give the clinic a more precise timeline regarding the optimum point of transfer in Clare's cycle. It meant a bonus regimen of hormones and meds for poor Clare, but the results were very encouraging! It turns out that we were transferring a little outside of the best window for the embryos to attach to the uterus. So, now we have a new schedule based on those test results and Clare's next transfer is scheduled for TOMORROW MORNING! We have two embryos left, and it seems like our best plan of action at this point will be to implant both if the last two survive the thaw (93% probability).

There's really not much else to say now other than... it's in God's hands. We're hopeful and encouraged by the ERA test results, but it's a pretty emotional time for us both. Regardless of the outcome, Clare and I have gone through some intense soul searching, and we've decided that this will be the last time we attempt an embryo adoption. Between the copious amounts of resources, the grueling medical regimens, and the emotional toll, we feel like we've been in a vicious holding pattern, and we're ready to move on with our lives, one way or another. We take solace in knowing there are many ways in this world to become a parent, and if it is to be that another door opens to us, I'm sure we'll walk right though it. But for now, regarding this process, it's time to move on.

There is one more thing to say: Thank you. EVERYONE. Thank you for all your love, encouragement, gifts, and sacrifices throughout this entire journey. It's hard to believe Clare and I have been at this since November of 2015. Thank you for joining us, helping us, lifting us up in prayer... everything. We cherish you all.

Well... stay tuned... 🙂

Hey Everyone,

Well, things got even darker for a bit there, but now we're beginning to see some light at the end of the tunnel. Sadly, the other two embryos we thought we had left over did not survive for another transfer. There were complications and some miscommunication with our clinic. Long story short, as a gesture of good faith, our doctor will be performing one transfer pro bono for us, which is very generous on his part.

We still have to re-enter into the matching phase with Snowflakes again however, as we sadly do not have any more embryos left from our first donor family. I have been in touch with them, and they remain supportive, even though our journey with them has come to an end.

I'm beginning to look at our latest obstacles as preparation for some of the challenges we will face in becoming parents. I don't think any parent has ever said, "Oh yea, raising children is super easy and fun all the time." I am beside-myself proud at Clare's handling of this whole experience, and thankful for the grace God has given me to handle the bumps in the road. The older I get, the more I learn that there's a wisdom in patience and a strength in meeting adversity head-on, but with truth and love.

Again, it may take awhile for the next update, what with finding a donor couple, entering into all the legally binding contracts, and then the transporting and thawing of the next embryos, but don't worry, I'll keep you posted. Just keep the prayers coming.

Love and Peace!

Well folks, it's been awhile...over half a year since our last update. After a few complications and a postponement, we're happy to say that on July 8th, we have an appointment for our embryo transfer. Before the thaw, we have 5 embryos at our disposal. Time will tell how many survive that process, but the ones that do will then be checked by our doctor and, God willing, we'll have at least 2 embryos set for transfer.

We have been humbled by this entire process and the outpouring of love and support from you, our friends and family. Now what we need are prayers and positive thoughts.

Thanks for getting us to this point. Thanks for lifting us up and traveling with us down this largely unpaved road to parenthood.

...I guess there's nothing left to do here but let go and let God. As always, we'll keep you updated...but it may be awhile.

Love and Peace,
Stevie & Clare

BIG UPDATE!!!

Friends and family! This election day, there is one incredibly special decision that Clare and I are privileged to have made together!

Earlier this morning, we contacted Snowflake to announce that we have accepted our donating couple match! We are looking forward to reaching out to them, and we believe they are a truly wonderful couple with a wonderful family.

Again, Clare and I are incredibly humbled and overwhelmed by your continued prayers and support. We cannot believe how close we've come to our fundraising goal. We know there are a handful of you whom we haven't been able to connect with yet. The past few weeks have been crazy. We promise you will definitely hear from us really soon.

Until then, share in our happiness in what is the most monumental and joyful decision we've made for our family.

UPDATE from Clare: WOW!!! Stevie and I are so overwhelmed! In less than a week we have reached more than 50% of our goal! Thank you all so much for your love and support as we build our family. We can't wait to share the joy of a new baby with all of you!