Danielle and Rafe's Story

This April an amazing couple, Danielle and Rafe, were awarded Maddy's Miracle Grant Arizona, and they are currently getting started with the IVF process. Below are parts of Danielle's letter regarding the emotional toll that infertility has had on her and Rafe. Their hope is that by sharing their story publicly, others will feel less alone in their own difficult infertility journeys.

Infertility has taken an emotional toll on both of us. There are days when the weight of it all feels almost unbearable, especially when I see others around me conceiving so easily. It is incredibly difficult, as a woman, to face the reality of being unable to conceive naturally. It's heartbreaking to want something so deeply and feel like my body is failing me and my husband. 

I have a close-knit group of girlfriends, and while infertility has been a challenge, it's been important for me to be there for them and celebrate their milestones. I have thrown six baby showers for friends who have gone on to have their little ones, all while struggling with infertility myself. For me, it's never been just about the baby shower itself—it's about celebrating the milestone of parenthood. I've been excited to help my friends mark that special moment in their lives. As hard as it has been, it's also made me more determined to one day experience the same joy and excitement that they feel. I cannot wait to know what it feels like to bring a child into the world and experience the deep, unconditional love that only a parent can know. 

But I am incredibly grateful that Rafe and I have each other to lean on throughout this journey. While infertility has been emotionally challenging, it has also brought us closer together. We support each other through the ups and downs, and we continue to remain hopeful that one day we will be parents. His unwavering support has meant the world to me, and I couldn't imagine going through this with anyone else. Having him by my side has been a constant reminder that no matter how hard this journey gets, we will get through it together. 

-Danielle