This week’s podcast is slightly different, as we hear one woman’s account of undergoing fertility treatment, and the pain and disappointment that was to follow. Fertility treatment has undoubtedly been a catalyst for joy in many couples lives, but for a large proportion of people, the treatment does not work. Deirdre Donelly feels that she was given miss information by an Irish fertility clinic when she underwent treatment nine years ago.
Deirdre gave birth to her first child David in 2004, which brought a huge amount of joy to her and her husband. A few years after David was born she began trying to become pregnant with her second child, and at this point realised there may be something wrong. Deirdre visited a fertility specialist and decided that she would explore this route with her husband. Fertility treatment can be all-encompassing and sadly during this period, Deirdre’s mother died of breast cancer. After months of expensive and painful therapies, Deirdre and her husband found out that there was only ever a 3% chance of success for the treatment she was on, which is something she believes was hidden from her by the clinics.
She speaks to Sasha about the grief involved with being an infertile woman, as well as the many caveats as to how Ireland currently deal with women’s health on a national level. Deirdre also speaks about the loss of her mother and the guilt she felt for not being around more during her mother’s illness, because of her treatment.
If you’re looking for a safe haven to express how you feel, share articles, photos, memories and more, join the Grief Encounters Facebook Group. A place for support, compassion and empathy for those grieving.
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