Episode 20: From IVF to Fostering, with Megan Ballestero

KEY TOPICS: 1 birth, miscarriages, hostile uterus, genetic mutation, clotting disorder, IVF, natural birth, fast delivery, depression, fostering

In this episode we meet Megan Ballestero, who describes her unexpected parenting journey to become a family of four!

Megan and her husband began trying for a baby soon after their wedding... but experienced recurring miscarriages over several years. Extensive tests revealed a 'medically complex' case: a genetic mutation (MTHFR gene), a blood clotting disorder (Factor V Leiden) and a uterus abnormality requiring surgery, which - all combined - made it almost impossible to get past the first trimester.

At significant financial cost, the couple began an IVF journey with a fertility clinic in Spain and were thrilled to experience a healthy full-term pregnancy. Deemed high-risk due to her medical issues, Megan was prepared for an elective caesarean... but her son had other ideas! She describes a very positive and smooth start to motherhood after his fast birth in December 2018.

When her son was a toddler, Megan attended a session run by the Care Agency seeking foster families. The realisation that there are local children in need was an eye-opening experience that Megan could not ignore. Her husband understood the compulsion to help, and eventually they welcomed a similar-aged little boy into their home! Proving that you don't have to give birth to be a loving parent, I'm very grateful to Megan for sharing her fascinating journey here (Recorded February 2025).

For information about the Care Agency: https://www.gibraltar.gov.gi/health/care-agency

More about becoming a Foster Carer: https://www.gbc.gi/news/care-agency-calling-out-foster-carers-their-social-media-campaign

For details about Care Link charity: https://carelink.gi/

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