To my endlessly patient and remarkably kind partner,
As I reflect on our life together, my heart swells with gratitude. I remember the days before we met and how different life seemed back then. It’s not that our life is flawless or that we have everything we desire, but rather that I am blessed to share it with you. Navigating this challenging season together makes it bearable; facing it alone would be overwhelming.
When I envision our family, including our IVF miracle daughter and the other little ones we dream of, you are always at the forefront of my thoughts. I cherish how we’ve united through our trials, the obstacles we’ve overcome to reach this point, and the journey still ahead. I often think about how my heart wishes to compensate for what my body has struggled with, and the unspoken burdens you’ve had to bear. Your fierce advocacy for the silenced — from mental health awareness to infertility and fatherhood — brings tears to my eyes. How did I get so fortunate to find such a compassionate, supportive, and strong partner?
I remember when we first met, our conversations were filled with dreams of parenthood. We would stay up late, imagining our future children, their siblings, and the loving community we would create around them. We were realistic about the challenges my autoimmune condition posed, yet we promised to explore every avenue to build our family, as long as I could be Mama and you could be Dada.
Initially, we approached trying to conceive with optimism, believing it would be an enjoyable journey filled with intimacy. I am forever sorry that it hasn’t unfolded that way.
I regret that our path to parenthood involved you having to provide samples in less-than-ideal circumstances, and that I couldn’t be there to support you through those awkward moments. I’m sorry you had to witness my endless tests and treatments, all while we faced the heartache of repeated disappointments. I never expected this process to be so arduous, costly, and devoid of romance. It pains me that time and luck have not favored us.
Yet, I also want to express my heartfelt thanks. Thank you for riding the emotional rollercoaster with me. Thank you for celebrating the small victories, like increased follicles and rising hormone levels. Thank you for sharing in both our grief and joy throughout this journey. Thank you for being an extraordinary parent to our little girl, and for handling our hopes for a second child with grace, even when reality didn’t align with our dreams. Thank you for understanding my mix of patience and doubt, and for holding my hand through every twist and turn.
I appreciate your willingness to allow me to share our intimate struggles with the world; you believe in the power of our story to help others. Your unwavering love and support inspire me every day.
When we exchanged vows, we spoke about how marriage is about choosing each other daily, not just during the ceremony. This mindset has carried us through every challenge, including our ongoing battle with infertility, and I take pride in what we’ve achieved together.
I firmly believe that our forever is attainable because we continue to choose one another above all else. I am profoundly grateful for you, my partner, my best friend, my everything. Thank you for believing in our family, both in its current form and the one we hope to create in the future.
Always,
Madison