1 in 4

a glimpse into infertility and miscarriage:

another surgery.  one last embryo.  9 days of torture, better known as the 2 week wait.  endless bloodwork.  BFP (big fat positive!).  23 shots.  70 pills.  explaining to my 3-year-old why mommy is crying.  the roller coaster of emotions: fear, anxiety, excitement, joy, uncertainty... overwhelming sadness, and the ultimate heartbreak.

so many are suffering in silence.  so many have hopes and dreams of starting and growing their families, but are falling short.  so many feel completely inadequate, like their bodies are failing them, unable to do what they were designed to do.  so many feel incredibly alone, even with a supportive partner.  so many are taking risks and chances, putting on a brave face or a big smile while inside they are really hurting.  so many choose not to share, because it's hard to talk about, and even harder to explain to anyone who hasn’t faced these struggles or experienced the pain of loss... over and over and over again.

you never know what someone is going through “behind the scenes.”  so be kind. be forgiving. and be thankful.

and know that i am with you.  i am 1 in 4, even with tons of help.  i see you, i understand, and you're not alone.