Soon after we began discussing the idea of adoption, our hearts were drawn toward children with Down syndrome. We are very involved in the fight to end abortion and the realization that these precious children are targeted for abortion made our hearts break. As we began our journey to a special needs adoption, we had no idea the wonderful direction God would lead us. This journey has ultimately been a blessing as well as a test of our faith.
After finishing our home study, we connected with Stephanie at the National Down Syndrome Adoption Network (N.D.S.A.N.) and eagerly awaited "the call". Little did we know we would receive a call about a potential adoption situation that was completely off our radar. A mother and father were looking for a couple that would be willing to adopt, transfer, and carry their embryo that had tested positive for Down syndrome. We had heard very little about embryo adoption and didn't know all the steps involved in it. But we do know that those little lives, from the moment of fertilization are precious in the sight of God and made in his image, with value and purpose. So, after short consideration, we agreed this was something we could do with the Lord's help.
After moving forward with this adoption, we were connected with the National Embryo Donation Center in Knoxville Tennessee who are Christian based and see all life as valuable and were willing to transfer an embryo with genetic abnormalities unlike the IVF facility where this child was being stored in Illinois. We were also excited to find out that this child had a sibling as well that was untested and the N.E.D.C. would be willing to transfer both at the same time!
The days turned to weeks and weeks into months as we went through all the steps to learn about, undergo, and finalize this adoption. In November 2022 we traveled to Knoxville, TN to make this adoption "official" and transfer both embryos to Gloria with high hopes of becoming a viable pregnancy. The procedure went well and the doctor was pleased with the condition of the embryos as well as how the procedure went. Within 9-12 days we would be able to confirm the pregnancy with a positive pregnancy test.
The first pregnancy test wasn’t strong on numbers but as we went back for more tests and ultrasounds to track the pregnancy, we saw the numbers go up. The doctors were skeptical of the way the pregnancy was progressing but we still clung to hope as time went on. Ultimately, the week of Christmas, Gloria experienced a miscarriage. Our hopes of holding these beautiful babies in our arms was crushed but our faith remained in the Lord. By following his commands to care for the orphan and love the least of these, we have grown in him and gave these tiny babies a chance at life. They have parents who love them greatly and one day we have hope to embrace them in the life to come.
That was the end of our embryo adoption journey. However, through your help, by prayer and financial assistance, we will continue our special needs adoption journey as we recover the cost of embryo adoption. Lifesong has blessed us with a matching grant of $4,000. So, every dollar you give will be doubled up to $4000! Please consider giving today.
STRIPE charges an online processing fee (2.2% +.30 USD per transaction)*. Your donations will be decreased by this amount. You may also send a check payable to “Lifesong for Orphans”. In the memo line please write “Reed 10327”, to ensure it is credited to our account. Please mail to Lifesong for Orphans, PO Box 9, Gridley, IL 61744.
Lifesong has been blessed with partners who underwrite all U.S. administrative and fundraising costs (TMG Foundation and other partners). That means 100% of your donation will go directly to the adoption.
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