June 6, 2024-Infertility is a significant and often distressing issue affecting millions of couples in Nigeria and worldwide. In a bid to address this pervasive problem, Meet Surrogate Mothers Agency recently hosted an event titled “Exploring Alternative Options to Infertility” at the Eko Hotel and Suites. This event, the agency’s first edition of Fertility Awareness, highlighted a major stride in their mission to reduce infertility rates among women. The event’s focal point was the agency’s generous offer of free in vitro fertilisation (IVF) treatments, a gesture poised to transform the lives of numerous women facing infertility.
Meet Surrogate Mothers Agency was founded in May 2014 by Olaronke Thaddeus, who has been dedicated to alleviating the heartache of women suffering from infertility. Thaddeus, the agency’s CEO, envisioned creating a supportive environment where women could explore alternative fertility solutions. “Our early patients were attended to in my sitting room,” Thaddeus shared in her opening speech. “Today, we start a new chapter with yearly free IVF through the Olaronke Thaddeus Foundation, hoping that more women who desire to have babies but are financially burdened can find hope.”
Infertility, a condition of the male or female reproductive system, is defined by the inability to achieve pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular unprotected sexual intercourse. It affects approximately 17.5% of the global population. Dr. T.N. Ugwueke, a medical practitioner and speaker at the event, emphasized the importance of IVF for couples with long-standing infertility issues, women of advanced age, those with ovarian abnormalities, and conditions like endometriosis. “IVF is one of several techniques available to help people with fertility problems have a baby,” Dr. Ugwueke explained.
Human Resources expert Mr. Alufa-Wellington Olalekan also spoke at the event, discussing adoption as a beneficial alternative to overcoming infertility. He provided a detailed overview of the Lagos State adoption process, from submitting the adoption application form to legalizing the adoption at the family court. He highlighted essential requirements such as birth certificates, marriage certificates of the adopters, and medical certificates. Mr. Olalekan also mentioned that, under the Lagos State Child’s Rights Law, adopted children must be monitored until they reach the age of 18.
The event was attended by several distinguished guests, including Mr. Kadri Semiu, a representative of the Chief of Staff, Lagos State, social influencer and agency ambassador May Yul Edochie, and actress Abiola Adebayo, who shared her personal journey with infertility and surrogacy. “Infertility shouldn’t limit women from having children,” Adebayo stated. “I opted for surrogacy after struggling with infertility, and it brought me immense fulfillment. I encourage women facing similar challenges to explore other options.”
The highlight of the event was the announcement of free IVF treatments for 15 women among the attendees, creating an atmosphere buzzing with excitement and hope. This gesture, valued at approximately N6 million per treatment, prompted an outpouring of emotions. Many women, overwhelmed with joy, expressed their gratitude, some through tears. This remarkable initiative not only alleviates the financial burden associated with infertility treatments but also stands as a beacon of hope for women struggling with infertility.
The event also marked the formal establishment of the Olaronke Thaddeus Foundation, aimed at expanding the charity arm of Meet Surrogate Mothers Agency. Thaddeus shared that over the years, the agency has quietly supported various charitable causes, such as providing free IVF treatments, paying school fees, and supporting widows. With the foundation now established, the agency aims to extend its reach further and garner financial support from the public to make these dreams a reality.
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