Unbearable: Donate To These Infertility Support Networks This Holiday Season

Having a child is usually a happy time in a woman’s life. Unfortunately, as we wait longer to have children, infertility and trouble conceiving can become a part of the family making process. Unbearable addresses these difficulties.

Writing the Unbearable column has given me a chance to share and examine my on-going journey with infertility. I always hope that it’s helpful to encourage conversation about this often-ignored topic, but I can’t deny that it’s been a source of catharsis as well. So during this season of giving, I’d like to promote some amazing organizations that help men and women everywhere share their stories and look for support. These charities, support networks and research centers provide individuals with education and an outlet to share their trials. They commission research and sometimes assist in the cost of fertility procedures. They give everyone a chance for a little catharsis.

Infertility can be very isolating. It’s such a personal problem that it’s difficult to reach out and discuss with others. But these networks encourage that connection and promote a sense of community within the “Trying To Conceive” couples out there. They let men and women feel angry or sad or jealous or hopeful. They let us find solace and understanding. And in finding a sense of belonging, sometimes this networks even let us laugh at this extremely emotional struggle.

In that spirit, the pictures of this slideshow are all the funniest image I could find of the one goal we’re all hoping for, “Sperm meets Egg.” Forgive me if they aren’t too hysterical, a search for “infertility humor” comes up surprisingly empty.

If you’re looking for a charity to donate to this holiday season, please follow the links and check out these deserving organizations. And happy holidays!

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