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NAVIGATING THE PATH TO PARENTHOOD POST-CANCER THROUGH SURROGACY



Various circumstances compel people to choose surrogacy as a path to parenthood. This includes same-sex couples unable to conceive biologically, those grappling with infertility, singles desirous of a biological child but lack a partner, or individuals with medical conditions, such as a history of cancer, preventing natural conception. 


Various offices around cities like Boston, San Francisco, and New York engage with numerous intended parents who, having journeyed through cancer, have embraced surrogacy as a means to start a family. Over time, the comprehensive programs offered to intended parents have facilitated the joy of parenthood for numerous individuals contemplating parenthood post-cancer.


Often, inquiries about parenting via surrogacy post-cancer are received. Emily Williams, a cancer survivor and a parent through surrogacy, graciously shares her personal journey to guide others. 


THE SURROGACY EXCURSION POST-CANCER


Emily Williams, Outreach Associate to Parents


At 26, my life was set. I was self-dependent, secure, and loved my job as a youth counselor. I had my apartment and was preparing to move in with my boyfriend. Then, a routine trip to the gynecologist changed everything.


Hearing the words, “you have cancer,” provided more shock than clarity. Terms such as prognosis, oncologist, surgery, treatment, and chemo filled my life, which once felt steady, now stood on shaky grounds. Forced choices on my treatment course chipped away at my sense of self, leaving behind an unfamiliar persona - a cancer patient. 


My oncologists were resolute on eradicating the cancer as swiftly as possible. With ovarian cancer, the recommended course of action was a complete hysterectomy. Being young and single, I barely had considered motherhood. But the reality of losing my fertility dawned on me, and I urged doctors to do their best to retain it.


After three surgeries and six rounds of chemotherapy over seven months, I surfaced, but not without the scars. The treatment cancer robbed me of my hair and induced menopause, leaving me feeling decades older. Although I survived, it came at the cost of my fertility. 


As the years passed since my diagnosis and fear lessened, I allowed myself to envision a meaningful future. My boyfriend and I married in 2005, and we decided to explore the possibilities of growing our family. Consulting with advocates at organizations like Stupid Cancer and my oncologist, we explored surrogacy and adoption, quickly realizing surrogacy was our preferred path.


Emily regularly counsels fellow cancer survivors considering surrogacy as their route to parenthood. Here are answers to frequently asked questions on parenthood post-cancer diagnosis.





BEGINNING THE SURROGACY PROCESS DURING CANCER TREATMENT - IS IT POSSIBLE?


The health of the intended parent is paramount while embarking on a surrogacy journey. To ensure this, we recommend beginning the surrogacy process only after active treatment, ensuring you can focus solely on your recuperation. While managing your health during surrogacy could be overwhelming, we're always accessible for those keen on surrogacy but still undergoing treatment. Our experienced team comprises social workers and cancer-surviving parents through surrogacy who can guide when ready.


DO WE HAVE RESOURCES FOR INDIVIDUALS INTENDING SURROGACY POST-CANCER?


With team members who've personally experienced the surrogacy process, we offer unparalleled insights on surrogacy after battling cancer. Aiming to inform, lead, and guide through your surrogacy journey, our diverse experiences enable us to understand and relate to the challenges of cancer survivors more closely.


GRANTS OR SPECIAL PROGRAMS FOR SURROGACY POST-CANCER – DO THEY EXIST?


It's true. Surrogacy is an expensive process, and the financial burden can be eased through loans, support from loved ones, or grants designed for cancer survivors. Consider exploring crowdfunding platforms as an additional option. 


WHAT ABOUT PEOPLE PLANNING A FAMILY WITH A CANCER SURVIVOR?


Every individual, notwithstanding their medical or personal background, deserves the joy of parenthood – this principle lays the foundation of our work. Proudly supporting cancer survivors on their path to parenthood, we encourage only initiating the surrogacy process post-treatment. Personal experiences of our staff, who are cancer survivors and parents via surrogacy, will vouch for the gratifying journey of welcoming a newborn post-cancer treatment. Livestrong could provide further insights on various parenthood options for cancer survivors.


FOR SOMEONE INTERESTED IN SURROGACY POST-CANCER, WHAT ARE THE NEXT STEPS?


Reach out to our dedicated team for more information about our personalized family planning services and resources. If you're interested in exploring parenthood post-cancer through surrogacy, we're ready to guide you at every step.
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