Every surrogacy story is special, and yours is no exception. That’s why we’re so excited about our Storytellers series.
This week we’re hearing from Jeniffer, who did two journeys with SPS before becoming a case manager. Learn what inspired her to become a surrogate, why she chose SPS, and how she built a special relationship with her intended parents.
Why Jeniffer decided to become a surrogate (and do two journeys!)
I wanted to bless a couple with the gift of family. I have a son and a daughter, and it has been such a blessing being a mother.
I have done two journeys; the second was a sibling journey. The first journey was a great experience and I loved seeing the joy on my IPs face as they held their baby. When they asked me to be their surrogate again (the day after I gave birth to their baby boy!), I said yes without hesitation.
Why Jeniffer chose SPS
I searched for surrogate agencies on the web, and I looked at many reviews and surrogate blogs. I found SPS was very personalized and SPS really cares about your journey and making it as special as possible.
Meeting and building a relationship with her IPs
I met my IPs during a Zoom meeting, as they live out of the country. Cristie led the conversation and guided it with questions. I was so nervous at first, but after talking to them for just a short time I noticed we all were so comfortable and our conversation was natural. In fact, it was as if I had known them for some time.
During the process, my case manager was excellent at keeping me informed about the next step. She also attended my appointments with me, which was awesome because I never felt alone or nervous. My IPs and I communicated regularly and often had video chats during my appointments. I like having them at the appointments and seeing their reaction as their baby grew. My husband and children also loved talking to my IPs and we quickly became more like a family than just a surrogate and IPs.
Before my due date, my IPs came down and we would meet at my appointment and on weekends we would hang out and go swimming. They were great with my kids and I couldn’t wait to see them with their baby.
Jeniffer’s labor and delivery
My IPs were amazing and when I went into labor they were at the hospital before I got there waiting with a wheelchair. The intended dad pushed me to labor and delivery as my intended mom, case manager, and husband followed. While in triage my intended mom stayed with me (they only allowed one person). My labor was really fast, and their little baby boy was born after less than two hours of arriving at the hospital. I had no time for an epidural, but that was okay I because had the best support from my IPs and case manager. I had to kick my husband out of the room when he walked in because he went pale and was going to pass out. I told him he can wait outside and make phone calls.
After the baby was born, my IPs brought him over to me to see and the smiles on their faces were priceless. The next day they asked me if I would carry another baby for them, and I said of course!
Navigating a more difficult second journey
Eight months later, I started my second journey with them. This time, it was a little girl. My pregnancy was a bit challenging. She was small and I had a lot of appointments. There were a lot of unknowns about the baby’s health, so my IPs came down a few months early. During that time my family saw them every weekend. Unfortunately, due to Covid, they were not allowed at any appointments, but we did video calls. I was able to see my first surrogate baby boy on the calls and it was great seeing him grow!
I made it to 37 weeks and it was time to deliver the baby girl. The time the delivery was very different. I was induced and only had my intended mom there. Covid made things difficult but my IM was just like my family and we supported each other. The baby had the cord wrapped around her neck and tied in a knot, so I ended up having a C-section. The baby was born really small and she was in the NICU for two weeks to grow. She was born healthy, just small.
She is now seven months old and is doing great. I get to chat with them a few times a month and I get a lot of pictures. I feel like I am so blessed to have such a wonderful relationship with my intended parents. I am so overjoyed that they now have the family they dreamed about.
Jeniffer’s biggest takeaway from her experience
I feel like I have made an impact in someone’s life that will forever be cherished, and that makes me really happy.
I always tell people about surrogacy and recommend it. I feel that there are many people that don’t understand surrogacy, and I have found that there are many interested in becoming a surrogate, but they don’t know where to start.
Thank you for being a part of Storytellers, Jeniffer!
Learn More About Becoming a Surrogate with Surrogate Parenting Services
Surrogate Parenting Services is proud to celebrate over 30 years of helping to bring dreams to life! Founded in 1990, Surrogate Parenting Services (SPS) is a full-service surrogacy program that offers both parties an exceptionally supportive environment throughout the surrogacy relationship. We’re passionate about creating ideal matches between surrogates and intended parents, so the journey is fulfilling for both sides and the future child is brought into this world in the best possible circumstances.
Learn more about our Surrogacy Program online or by calling (949) 363-9525.
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