Resolve to Help those struggling with infertility

For way too long I kept my infertility a silent struggle. I did it because I was embarrassed (as if it was something I did wrong) and because when I brought it up, the responses I got were not good. I spent too much time getting poor advice or listening to people brush my disease of infertility under the rug.

I wanted to put together some advice on supporting and showing you care to those who are struggling whit infertility.

Be mindful of your words. Words are a tough thing with infertility. Some people don't want to talk about it and others are open. A simple notion of, "I'm thinking of you," or a small sincere gesture showing that your acknowledge the person and that they're going through something tough. Be careful not to give advice. For me personally, the advice from friends or those who haven't experienced infertility is often incorrect and can be right out rude. Remember, infertility is a diagnosis from a reproductive specialist and someone going through infertility has likely read every piece of advice out there.

Be a friend. I spent at least 2 years not wanting to attend any events. The medication I was on had crazy negative side effects, including weight gain, making more uncomfortable out and about. At the events I did attend, I sat in conversations filled with talks of reusable diapers and people trying for more babies. It made me want to curl up into a ball. I had a few close friends drag me out. If I was really down, they would just sit with me. The close friends would do anything to make me feel like I was still the same person I once was before the drugs and diagnosis.


Don't have expectations.. For a long time, I didn't go to any events, do anything, or see anyone. Weddings and birthdays were filled with people asking when we were going to have kids. Baby showers and kids birthdays felt like knife jabbing me and constantly reminding me what I couldn't have. Just remember that infertility is medical condition that is life changing and an emotional roller coaster.

Go VoxBox + The Next Step Fit N Full review

VoxBox

As part of the Influenster network, I was sent the VoxBox. The VoxBox contained: ProFoot pedi-rock and sole inserts, BlueDiamond Blueberry almonds, aqua spa bath salts, The Vitamin Shoppee's The Next Step shake samples (3), the Jaxx Shaker cup, and tampons.

I was sent The Next Step shakes in my VoxBox and instantly thought, great.
I was really hesitant to try the shake, but I decided to go for it. I was pleasantly surprised by the product. The texture was smooth and not chalky. It was a delish flavor that wasn't too overpowering like most shakes. Not only was the flavor great, but it has so many vitamins that I felt great after without a nasty after taste.Typically, I avoid shakes because I have a sensitive stomach, but these were light and smooth on my stomach as well!

My favorite part was the Jaxx container to break up all the powder and really mix the shake. 

The ProFoot pedi-rock and sole inserts were great. The pedi-rock is like a pumice rock that's soft and squishy to touch. You can literally squeeze this thing. I used it on my foot dry and it didn't hurt. It left my foot soft!

If you need an addiction in your life, grab some Blue Diamond Blueberry Almonds. The taste is amazing! The blueberry flavor tastes like an actual blueberry, but has the almond crunch that is a killer combo!

Infertility on Mother's Day

Infertility on Mother's Day has been the sum of the last three years Mother's Day.

It's a day of celebration of those who raised us and took care of us along the way.
I love my mom and those who are mom's in my life that surround me, yet on this day I have a heavy heart.

What does it mean to be a mother? I would say someone who would give anything for you, for a child is pretty damn close to a defining summary of mother-istic qualities. That is something I, and my TTC sisters, have.

I would give anything for a child.
I've miscarried, does that make me a mother?
I've put my mind, body, and soul through the ringer for the chance to have a child--does that qualify me?

The resume of things I've done, am willing to do, and would do for a child grows daily.
My resume is likely longer than most mother's out there, yet they still have the title that I covet: Mother.