Meet Neil and Sean, a couple whose devotion and excitement about becoming parents through surrogacy has touched hearts far and wide.
Their story begins in the wake of their wedding celebrations, when their desire to complete their family through surrogacy started to materialise into action.
With full membership at SurrogacyUK looming, they enthusiastically prepared to introduce themselves to their community and build relationships with potential surrogates at their first social event.
The couple candidly expresses their feelings of trepidation and joy, very much like any prospective parent. However, they also acknowledge the complexity of surrogacy. “It was overwhelming at first, realising the labyrinthine path we were about to embark upon,” they admit. Yet, by breaking down the journey into manageable steps and learning from the experiences of others, they have found the process significantly more navigable.
The decision-making process for Neil and Sean was fairly straightforward. As a same-sex couple, their options for parenthood were limited to surrogacy or adoption. The ability to watch their baby grow and form a familial bond were key factors in their decision.
Support from their families has been unwavering and the pair have fortunately not yet faced any negativity or challenges. The typical misconceptions they encounter include some people’s belief that two men shouldn’t have a baby, and the assumption that surrogacy is a mere financial transaction.
Neil and Sean affirm their view that everyone deserves the chance to create a family, stressing that the journey of surrogacy extends far beyond the monetary aspects. As for the qualities they are seeking in a potential surrogate, the couple emphasise the significance of authentic connections over any set criteria.
They value humour, kindness, and a relaxed, non-judgmental approach, and are looking forward to forming meaningful bonds at the forthcoming socials.
Neil and Sean plan to ensure their child’s birth story is woven into their narrative without any veil of secrecy. Although they admit not knowing the exact ‘how’ yet, their priority is to avoid overwhelming their child with too much information too soon. It’s an area they’re eager to learn more about from others who have already navigated it.
With regards to UK surrogacy laws, their journey is still in its infancy. However, their group seminar with SurrogacyUK and their fertility clinic training have given them a solid grounding in understanding the legal aspects of surrogacy.
Neil and Sean say their journey hasn’t altered their perceptions of parenthood and family, but it has given them a profound appreciation for the surrogates who selflessly offer others the opportunity to have a family.
Their advice for other intended parents considering surrogacy is to carry out extensive research and not hesitate to seek support or ask questions.
Their invaluable piece of advice is, “Every journey is different. Understanding how it all works can be overwhelming, but laying out all the stages can help in planning your path.”
With their enthusiasm and determination, Neil and Sean have certainly shown how to turn the challenging process of surrogacy into a joyful journey of love and family.
Surrogacy Awareness Week 2024 
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