As National Infertility Awareness Week sheds light on a condition affecting millions worldwide, two women from Charlotte are sharing their personal journeys to parenthood to support others facing similar challenges.
Nichelle Sublett, who struggled with infertility for six years, reflects on the emotional rollercoaster she and her husband endured before successfully having a child through in vitro fertilization (IVF) after five miscarriages. “Emotionally, I was wrecked throughout the process,” she said. “I thought it would be easy because we were young. I never expected any issues, so the surprise of it was hard to accept.”
The World Health Organization estimates that one in six people globally is affected by infertility. National Infertility Awareness Week aims to raise awareness and push for better health care coverage for infertility treatments.
Sarah Ekis faced her own infertility battle, undergoing several treatments without success. “I did three rounds of IVF,” she shared. “We did three egg retrievals, seven embryo transfers, and none of them worked. We had success with donor embryos.”
Both women have turned their painful experiences into a source of support for others. Sublett started a fertility coaching business, while Ekis now leads a local support group through RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association.
“I tell people to think of me as their fertility friend,” Sublett said about her coaching services. “I’m there for you as you walk your path to parenthood, no matter what it looks like.”
Ekis recalled the isolation she felt before joining a support group. “It just felt like it changed my life. I was around people who understood.”
This Saturday, RESOLVE will host the Walk of Hope at Truist Field in Charlotte to raise funds and awareness for infertility. The organization advocates for supportive legislation and helps individuals navigate their fertility journeys.
Despite the hardships, both women say their experiences have led to personal growth. “I’m proud of myself for getting through it,” Sublett said. “And I’m proud of our marriage for making it through together.”
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