Emma and Adem
Our journey started 5 years ago on honeymoon when we decided that we'd like to have our own family, having known from early into our relationship that we could see ourselves getting married and 'having babies'. I distinctly remember throwing away the rest of my contraceptive pills, anticipating that it wouldn't be long before I'd be pregnant because, well isn't that just how it happens once you're married?
Dear Mr Rimington and everyone at CARE Tunbridge Wells, Since finding out we were pregnant I've always known that I wanted to write to you to express our gratitude, with my 4 week old baby sleeping next to me it's harder to find the right words than I thought it would be.
Our journey started 5 years ago on honeymoon when we decided that we'd like to have our own family, having known from early into our relationship that we could see ourselves getting married and 'having babies'. I distinctly remember throwing away the rest of my contraceptive pills, anticipating that it wouldn't be long before I'd be pregnant because, well isn't that just how it happens once you're married?
Month after month went by, the disappointment growing ever stronger, the willingness to try anything to make it happen being at the forefront of everything we did. Before we knew it we were in the NHS system having test after test, waiting months sometimes for results and appointments with the overstretched consultant. Clearly just a number in the system, our appointments were clinically cold and I will never forget sobbing as we went for the first infertility appointment in the 'birthing unit' at the hospital.
In the end being in the NHS system was too stressful and we decided to continue our journey privately. Choosing you was easy, we had previously visited and been impressed by how welcoming the environment was and in all honesty it just felt right. Our first appointment was around the time of our third wedding anniversary and we met with you Dr. Rimington. You may not recall what you said to us but the words will forever stay in my mind - "You don't have to worry about getting pregnant anymore, it's my job to worry about it now so you can forget about it". Meeting with you was also the first time that a professional was positive about us getting pregnant. In fact you said we "made your job easy" which was so refreshing compared to our experience to that point. Immediately it felt like a massive weight was lifted from our shoulders and that we had someone who could help us on the journey. It felt like you really cared about getting us the baby that we so longed for and that felt wonderful. We weren't alone anymore.
The care that we received from everyone we came into contact with at CARE was second to none. The balance between professional and personal was so finely struck by everyone we met, we couldn't help but feel in safe hands even when the first two attempts were unsuccessful. When we were blessed with the positive response we'd waited for, the support didn't stop, after a couple of early bleeds we called on you and once again were comforted, reassured and given practical advice without judgement.
Our pregnancy actually progressed very well with no complications and our little girl came into the world healthy and happy. She's already turned our world upside down. We can't help but look at her and think how precious she is having come from an 'alternative' beginning. Babies are little miracles anyway, but it amazes us that science has completed our family in a way that nature could not. Without your help this would never have been possible and we are eternally grateful.
She is already bringing so much happiness not only to us but to all the family and friends around us. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
Emma, Adem and Amara xxx
