In this Surrogate Spotlight, we feature Elena, who shares with us the story of her journeys with AFS!
1. Please summarize your surrogacy experience thus far.
“My surrogacy journey has been the highlight of my life besides my family. My first surrogacy journey, Carey worked her magical match making skills with an amazing, sweet, and humorous male couple from Israel. After we were matched, they flew down to the States to get married (by Carey!) and then made plans to officially meet me the day after. We had an instant connection once we laid eyes on each other. I instantly knew I gained more family members.
My kids love them, they call them Uncles. We had open communication before, during, and after our
journey together. We video chatted at least once week and texted as much as we could. I could not have been more blessed with another couple. They wanted me to make a video of me announcing who I am and that we were pregnant with twins. They showed it to their family and friends. They mean so much to me and I am so proud of myself that I was able to bless them with not only one, but two beautiful strong babies.
That was my first time carrying twins. This pregnancy was completely different than my own. My oldest son, 4 years old, loved my belly and always kissed and held the babies. I worked through my entire pregnancy and my employer is very supportive of surrogacy.
We had quite the surprise with an unexpected c-section at 33 weeks, and the dads were able to make it to the USA just in time to witness their babies being born. My husband and both dads were in the room. The dad’s families flew in from Israel to help care for the babies, and I was able to meet them. They are the sweetest and most supportive parents I have met.
Now almost 6 months later, we stay in touch and exchange photos and videos of our children. I knew I would not have any attachment issues with the babies, but I did have attachment issues with the dads once they left back home to Israel! We are planning to visit them there in a year or so.”
2. Where are you at in your surrogacy journey?
“Right now, I am on my second surrogacy journey. Carey, yet again, matched me with a loving male couple that I adore. We text each other almost every week and I am hoping we have as much a strong connection as I did with my first. I am so excited to give them the gift of parenthood.”
3. Tell us a little about yourself and why you chose to become a surrogate.
“I love to give. I go through my house and anything I am able to give away, from clothes, baby toys, furniture, house decor, I give away to those who may need. I love to see the looks on people’s faces when they receive something they always wanted or needed. Giving is the best feeling ever.”
4. What do you enjoy most about being a surrogate?
“I enjoy seeing the Intended Parents’ expressions when they see the ultrasounds… and best of all, when they actually get to meet their baby they have been dreaming of.”
5. How has the decision to become a surrogate changed you?
“It has made me a stronger person; mentally, emotionally, and physically. I could not have made the decision without my husband; he has been so supportive through everything.”
6. What is/was the communication and relationship like with your IP(s)?
“My first and second surrogacy parents both have open communication. We text each other weekly. I love having open and strong relationships with them. They are my second families.”
7. What would you want to say to women considering surrogacy?
“I say do it, as long as there is a support system. Everything is worth it. We are changing lives and making dreams come true. What could be better than that?”
