Campaign Story

A Mother’s Journey to Bring Another Baby Home

My name is Courtney, and this is the story of a family grown with love, persistence, and hope — even in the face of heartbreak.

I began fostering in 2015, and in 2018, a baby girl named Mae changed everything. I became her mama in every way that mattered, and in June 2020, I officially adopted her. Mae is bright, protective, and full of joy — she made me a mother.

In 2021, I began the path to pregnancy. After 8 failed IUIs, I moved forward with IVF. My first transfer brought me Julian — my rainbow boy, born November 25, 2022.

In 2024, I tried again using my remaining embryos. The first two didn’t take. But my last embryo did — and I became pregnant with Sampson.

Everything went so well. He was strong, spent his time flipping around and kicking me gently. He loved the sound of his siblings’ voices. And then one morning he wasn’t kicking, and that afternoon I found out he was gone.

On March 20, 2025, my beautiful son was born still. The cord had wrapped tightly around his neck three times. There was nothing anyone could do.

There are no words for what it feels like to lose a baby so close to holding them. Sampson was so loved. He is still loved.

We talk about him every day. I named him Sampson, which means child of the sun, and he truly is the sunshine in my heart. I feel him most when the light is warm on my skin, as if he’s still with me, glowing quietly beside us.

And now, with courage and trembling hope, I’m trying again — a new IVF cycle, a new chapter, one more chance to bring a baby safely home.

But the cost of IVF is enormous. As a single mom working hard to care for my family and honor the memory of my son, I need help.

This fundraiser is part of the Gift of Parenthood grant process. Any donation — no matter how small — helps us qualify. Just showing up for us in this space matters.

If you can give, share, or send encouragement, we thank you with our whole hearts. Your support helps us carry hope through grief, and build something beautiful again.

With gratitude and love,
Courtney, Mae, Jules, and Sampson — always 🌻