Campaign Story

My name is Elizabeth and my husband is Nick. I was diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2006. Proton radiation caused significant damage to my pituitary. In 2009, I developed panhypopituitarism; this caused my infertility. I was under the impression from doctors that it’s still possible to get pregnant, but I never knew for sure. A couple years ago, I went to a new gynecologist who told me that I would never be able to have biological children even with advanced reproductive help. I was devastated and dreaded telling Nick that I could not have children. I thought he would leave me, but he proposed two months later and said he wasn’t leaving. Not wanting to accept my infertility fate, I went to a reproductive endocrinologist to get answers. I was told that it was possible to get pregnant and that I was even in a better position than another hypopituitary patient that he was successful with. I have so far been through six unsuccessful cycles of LH and FSH injections. I know IVF is the next step for us, but the cost of the medications and testing so far has depleted most of our savings. IVF will cost thousands more, and my employer refuses to offer fertility insurance. I pleaded with the state of Michigan to pass fertility insurance coverage laws, but I have been unsuccessful. I humbly ask for financial assistance in me and my husbands journey to become pregnant. It would be very much appreciated.