What my infertility journey has taught me
As National Infertility Awareness Week approaches, I wanted to shed light on some things I've learnt along the way. It's a rollercoaster of a journey, that I have been on for 19 years, but it has taught me a lot about myself and others. Here are some of the things my infertility journey has taught me.
Be patient with others - Understand that they need time to process and understand it and if they don't get it, it's ok. Accept others' weaknesses and love unconditionally. When people around me, friends or family, say things that are not helpful, it doesn't necessarily mean they are coming from a bad place. Some people are not malicious but simply naive to your condition. Learn to shake off unhelpful or negative comments and love without offence because sometimes it's not their fault. People they need to be taught and be exposed.
Wait without expecting - I've learnt to always be hopeful and when you feel like a rug has been pulled out from underneath you and have lost control. I've learnt to always be hopeful and to focus on taking care of myself and the things that are within my control like what I eat, what I say, going to the gym...
Look after myself mentally - I've realised that my identity as a woman is not defined by my ability to have children. I've learnt to be a great wife and friend.
It will be worth all the money in the end - I've spent so much time, money and effort on treatments and even though I haven't gotten the results I wanted yet. But I know that it will be all worth it in the end. My baby is worth it.
Remember, you don't have to be going through infertility to support a friend with infertility - So what can you do to support a friend with infertility? Don't assume, don't judge, don't necessarily try and offer solutions. Simply make her feel included in conversations and events. Remember to celebrate her, even on Mother's Day.
Love, Kel xx