A father’s journey through infertility and beyond
Two weeks ago I took my last child, my little girl, my little bear… in my arms for a daddy daughter dance at her wedding reception.
Dr. Moffitt reflects on his journey to fatherhood
35 years ago, after five years of infertility, my wife and I were undergoing infertility evaluation and treatment, which ultimately lead to an IVF cycle that failed miserably. We did not even have one embryo to transfer! We were pretty stunned, and I do not really remember what our back-up plan was. I really don’t think that we had a backup plan.
We just did not address it openly and a few months later we miraculously conceived, without any intervention, my first daughter, my babydoll. 35 years later we have four beautiful children all married to wonderful people and grandkids on the way!
Facing the uncertainty of infertility
I remember distinctly the recovery room I was sitting in with my wife when we were told the news that we had no embryos. It was white, fluorescent bright, and cold. Back then I can imagine thinking of giving up.
“It is just not worth it.” I have heard it said or seen it in the eyes of many fathers-to-be when they are contemplating fertility treatment for the first time or after a failed cycle. “It’s too hard.” “It’s too expensive.”
It is impossible for them to see into the future and realize – no feel – what they would be giving up. 33 years of holding, playing with, nurturing, teaching, guiding, sharing and most of all loving the amazing gift that is the children I have. Looking back, what would I do to have that? Anything and EVERYTHING.
NOTHING in life can compare to the amazing journey and joy of being a father.
So, on this Father’s Day, as I look at the videos and photos of my little bear’s wedding and my beautiful family, all I can say to the thousands upon thousands of fathers-to-be out there who are staring into a future filled with uncertainty is, IT’S WORTH IT!
Watch Dr. Moffitt dance with his “little bear” on her wedding day!
