Beating premature ovarian failure and having a baby girl

Why do you want to share your story?

I want others to find hope knowing they can achieve their family-building dreams as I have. I felt very alone during the process of infertility (and at times, even still to this day) when dealing with my diagnosis. My husband and family are incredibly supportive, but that doesn’t mean they know what it feels like to be diagnosed with infertility. It wasn’t just the physical inability to have my own genetic child. It was also the life-changing realization that I would require daily medication therapy until I’m in my 50’s.

What led you to Fertility Centers of Illinois?

I work in the medical field. This made me a hyper-vigilant patient with the ability to reach out to colleagues and mentors to find the very best facility in the country. FCI continuously came up as the facility that offered everything my husband and I were looking for and needed. This also made me an exceptionally needy and questioning patient! Both Dr. Rodgers and Amber Kiddie, RN, were amazing at not only answering all of my questions, but answering them within hours of my asking. They were always kind, compassionate, respectful and helpful.

How would you describe your experience with your physician?

Dr. Allison Rodgers! I feel like Dr. Rodgers treats me as a sister and friend, not just another case or number. Dr. Rodgers continuously went above and beyond her responsibilities and out of her way to answer all of my questions and make me feel at ease. She is so genuine and always positive in a compassionate and empathetic manner. She understands her patients first-hand.

What helped you get through treatment?

I’m a “do-er.” I needed to “do” as much as I could and be involved as much as I possibly could be in my infertility journey. Because I learned donor egg was my only chance to carry my child, I researched the heck out of the diagnosis and treatment of premature ovarian failure (POF) and hundreds of potential donors and agencies. I also looked into every other fertility treatment center in the country to make sure I was getting the best care and treatment for what we were about to go through to start our family. Knowledge is power! The internet allowed me to connect with other women in my situation or similar, and I still chat with many of them to this day.

Also; Circle + Bloom. Google it! It kept my sanity and I was referred to this fabulous resource by Dr. Rodgers. (I have no personal or financial affiliation with Circle + Bloom, but I wish I did because it was my lifesaver both during my infertility journey and pregnancy!)

Do you have any words of hope for others?

My OB/GYN gave me the best advice that I still pass on to my friends and my patients: “You will have the child or children you are meant to have.” In closing, my journey was nothing as I expected. But the end result was worth every tear and heartache and I look forward to subsequent pregnancies through the assistance of Fertility Centers of Illinois. 

Tell us about your little miracle!

Where do I begin?! She’s perfect. Ten fingers, ten toes, and all of 12 weeks old. Such a miraculous blessing! She’s laying on my lap cooing and sleeping as I write these words. She brings us so much joy and I’m so grateful and thankful to be her mommy.

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Diagnosis and treatment

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Premature ovarian failure (POF)
Donor egg

Receiving care

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Dr. Allison K. Rodgers
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