New Year, New Baby: Holiday Wishes Come True For Two Couples Looking To Start Families In '08

Main Category: Fertility
Article Date: 31 Dec 2007 - 0:00 PDT

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Fertility Centers of Illinois, S.C., (FCI) has made holiday dreams come true for two deserving couples struggling with infertility and unable to afford medical fertility treatments, by giving away two free In-Vitro-Fertilization (IVF) cycles valued at $10,000 each.

Infertility affects 1 in 8 couples in the United States and the emotional despair is often heightened by the frustration of not being able to afford treatments. Recognizing that the holidays are especially difficult for couples struggling with infertility, FCI wanted to give the greatest gift of all for those that were unable to pursue treatments due to the financial burden - a chance at parenthood.

Having endured various challenges preventing them from starting a family, Leronica and Brendan Scallon of Palatine, IL and Molly and Mark Aunger of Oak Grove Circle, IL have been selected to receive the free In-Vitro-Fertilization cycles.

With Brendan serving in the military for the past four years and just starting his third tour of duty in Iraq, the Scallons comment that overseas deployments, insurance barriers and travel issues have prevented them from pursuing treatment. "We are overwhelmed at this opportunity to potentially start our family in the New Year and are thrilled to be able to bring hope to other couples who face similar situations," they add.

For all aspiring parents preparing for the fertility journey in the New Year, FCI offers the following tips as a couple's guide to New Year fertility resolutions:

- Explore all your options: Since infertility has multiple causes, treatment options also vary. It is important to fully understand the cause of your fertility troubles, in order to effectively identify the best option for you and your partner.

- Maintain a healthy body weight: Your weight can affect your ability to get pregnant and being too much above and below your BMI can be harmful. Experts consider a body mass index (BMI) between 18 and 29 to be ideal.

- Lead a healthy lifestyle: You need to ensure that you're giving your body the best possible chance to conceive a child. Be sure to quit smoking, limit alcohol, exercise regularly and eat a well-balanced, nutritious diet.

- Manage stress in your life: Infertility and treatment leads to stress which may impact your chances to conceive. While stress cannot be eliminated, it can be managed better. Allow yourself time to relax and enjoy your partner and try breathing or relaxation techniques to calm your mind and body.

- Prepare yourself mentally and emotionally: Being well informed and developing realistic expectations can make a big difference in your level of comfort. Many excellent books are available in addition to two national consumer groups that help people trying to build a family. Visit http://www.resolve.org and http://www.theafa.org.

About Fertility Centers Of Illinois

Fertility Centers of Illinois, S.C., is one of the nation's leading infertility treatment practices, providing advanced reproductive endocrinology services in the Chicago area for over 25 years. FCI has more babies born than the next ten centers combined with high success rates that are recognized throughout the nation. In addition to a team of nationally recognized reproductive physicians who stay current on the latest technology and procedures, FCI patients have access to many other unique support services, such as professional counseling from a licensed, Ph.D. clinical psychologist, patient advocates and innovative financial options. FCI is part of IntegraMed, the nation's largest and most reputable network of fertility centers and has multiple offices conveniently located throughout the Chicago area.

Fertility Centers Of Illinois