Every family’s journey is unique, and sharing our experiences can foster strength and resilience. The following narrative from the Thompson family in North Carolina highlights the love and determination that define LGBTQ+ families as integral parts of their communities.
The Beginning of Our Family Journey
After five years of being together, my partner and I felt the urge to expand our family. We considered various options. My dream involved plenty of adventures, while his vision included a bustling household of five kids. Eventually, we reached a middle ground: two children, with a commitment to keep the joy alive in our lives.
Our surrogacy journey was fraught with difficulties. We faced a heartbreaking miscarriage and an unsuccessful attempt with our first surrogate. Feeling worn down, we pivoted and registered as foster parents while exploring adoption. However, a close friend of my partner—a nurse and mother of four—encouraged us to keep trying. After a challenging ectopic pregnancy, we finally welcomed our wonderful daughter into the world. Looking back, we realize it was all part of our destiny, unfolding in its own time.
Facing Life’s Challenges
Eager to grow our family, we were met with setbacks. The COVID-19 pandemic struck shortly after the birth of our daughter, and I found myself grappling with old traumas and unhealthy coping mechanisms. By the time her first birthday rolled around, I understood that if I wanted to be a good parent, I had to make significant changes. Simultaneously, we were faced with the realities of living in a conservative area in Florida where political attacks on our community were rampant.
It became clear that for our family’s mental health and safety, a move was necessary. Reluctantly, we sold nearly everything and relocated to Black Mountain, North Carolina—a place that felt just right for us. We also embarked on another surrogacy journey, which presented its own set of challenges. After a serious discussion with our doctor, we discovered we had two embryos remaining, but our new surrogate faced difficulties conceiving.
Taking a Leap of Faith
Determined to pursue our dreams, we took a risk. We secured loans, engaged a surrogacy coordinator, and found a new surrogate from Ohio who was married to a trans man and raising five children. The road wasn’t easy; Hurricane Helene almost derailed our plans, but we persevered. Just like before, our fourth transfer proved to be the lucky charm.
Now, sixteen weeks into this new pregnancy journey, we are beginning to feel a sense of hope. We’re living our dream on a small farm filled with mini ponies, goats, ducks, and chickens, complemented by cozy cabins for guests. I am proud to celebrate over four years of sobriety, and our daughter, now five, is thriving in a nurturing and inclusive community. Like many parents, we strive to cultivate a life built around love and connection.
From natural disasters to political strife, our family has weathered many storms. Yet, we firmly believe in the strength of unity. We will celebrate each other, and as our story illustrates, love always triumphs.
— The Thompson Family
The Thompsons reside in Black Mountain, North Carolina, where they nurture their daughter and pour their hearts into their farm, Halfback Hollow. With an array of animals and serene surroundings, they invite other queer families to visit and share in their dream.
If you’re considering starting a family, check out a free sperm donor matching service in Las Vegas through Vegas Pregnancy or explore the reusable options available from Make a Mom. To better understand the at-home insemination process, visit How It Works. For thoughtful gifts, consider browsing Gifts for Her as you embark on this journey. Additionally, Modern Family Blog is an excellent resource for prenatal visits, and for further information on pregnancy and home insemination, Hopkins Medicine offers valuable insights.
In summary, the Thompson family’s story reflects the resilience and love that define LGBTQ+ families. Their commitment to each other and their community shines through, proving that love indeed conquers all.