National infertility Awareness Week (NIAW) is with us again, and this time they are challenging us as to how we have contributed to infertility awareness and support.
I feel a bit inadequate about my contribution to infertility. But I came across this quote and realised that it is the little things in life that make a difference, no matter how insignificant they seem.
I want to remember that no one is going to make my dreams come true for me… it is my job to get up every day and work towards the things that are deepest in my heart… and to enjoy every step of the journey rather than wishing I was already where I want to end up.
You see, I have always wanted to provide a resource for infertiles. I don’t know if what I envisioned really got off the ground, but I have made some attempts. And I’m going to acknowledge that although I haven’t gotten big like some of the big IF bloggers out there – I’ve really enjoyed putting my creations out there – and made some cool friends along the way.
So, without further ado, let me list some ways in which I have been trying to help this community.
1. Blogging. I have been writing my story and putting my own story out there in the hopes that it may touch someone else and help them. I think the best thing about blogging has been the interactive nature – the support, the comments. It has been fabulous to read other people’s blogs and support them on their journey too.
2. Free ebook / series of emails! My infertility survival kit is right here.
3. Audio series – get it right here!
4. I would like to facilitate a support group. In some kind of format,be it online, or in person. This is something close to my heart but I have no idea how to make it happen now especially with a baby in tow. But I would be open to suggestions!
5. I would like to write a book. I think I seriously am going to get my butt into gear and do this. It will be partly my story and partly self help. My inspiration? All the bloggers who have recently gone nuts bringing out books! SIF, Mel, Lynda…. I am currently reading Lynda’s “Pink Wellies and Flat Caps” and it is hilarious!
And I think that’s what is also cool about blogging – we can inspire each other. If I can get through years of infertility and come out the other end with a beautiful baby like Nicky – well, then, there’s hope.
Click here for a basic understanding of infertility.
Click here for info on NIAW.
The simple fact that you talk publicly about infertility is priceless. It removes some of the mystique and stigma. Kudos to you.
ICLW #66
Hi from ICLW…I am def going to spread the word via my blog!!!
Hi from ICLW. I’m going to check out your links.
Greetings from ICLW! I am not “out” with my IF, so I struggle with what I can do to give back! For now, I blog, which is an awesome way to reach and help other people! I also facilitate a RESOLVE peer led support group. I highly recommend it. I wrote this blog about my experience, and it includes information on how to start your own! It is an awesome and rewarding experience! http://nogoodeggs.wordpress.com/2013/03/29/the-cave/
Thank you for sharing and being open!
Hi! Here from ICLW…. Like the previous poster said, simply telling your story and being open and honest about infertility is important. You went the extra step of putting together resources to help other women cope with the hell of IF, and that’s huge. I can’t wait to check out your survival guide.
Hello, here for ICLW. It is my first time and I am new to blogging and it is great to see all of the things that people do to help each other out. I will check out your downloads from home. I am glad that you have been successful… it gives hope taht one day we will be too. Hugs and best wishes.
The inspiration part of this community is definitely still huge! I can’t wait to read your book!
Thanks, SIF.
I’m right there with you. I’d love to lead a small group AND write a book. You’re way ahead of me though in the fact that you’ve written an ebook. So cool! Thank you so much for all of your contributions to the IF community. I am proud to say that I am raising my voice alongside people like you. Blessings on your journey and on your pregnancy!
Okay, just kidding. I’m kind of embarrassed because I said “blessings on your pregnancy,” but then I realized that “baby in tow” means you’d have your baby in your arms, not your tummy. Sorry about that, but this new realization is even better! What a beautiful boy you have!
haha Em you’re funny… thanks for visiting my blog anyway!
Love the quote!
Babystepsinbabymaking.blogspot.com
“…and to enjoy every step of the journey rather than wishing I was already where I want to end up”
That is so hard and something I’m really trying to work on. It’s so easy to get caught up in wanting the end result and forget living in the moment. So much is missed by that. Thanks for the reminder.
You have done a lot and I hope you get down more of your ideas and start writing that book.
thanks for the comment 🙂
You are so on my heart and I will really rejoice when you get your bundle.
Yip, I must get writing. 🙂
I completely missed NIAW and I should know better since it coincides with my daughter’s birthday. Thank you for the reminder and I’ll look forward to reading your book!
Infertility is hard burden to carry. But I have found the more it is shared, the lighter it becomes. Frankly, I think telling our story is the biggest thing that we can do to lift the stigma. You go girl, sounds like you are very dedicated!