Thick Skin

I realize that not everyone is going to be supportive of my surrogacy journey. I totally respect that. Many people don’t understand what would motivate someone to have a baby for someone else, it is against many people’s religious beliefs, and some just think it is gross. I have encountered people that have shared each of these viewpoints with me. We all have our own opinions and I love learning and listening to what others think and feel. But I do feel there is a time and place to express your opinions.

I recently went to the doctor. I had sinus infection, vertigo, double ear infections, and an upper respiratory infection. The doctor was beginning to tell me how concerned she was about the vertigo. She then asked if I was taking any kind of birth control. (Well, of course I am per the RE to regulate my cycles) I simply answered yes. She asked me why. I hesitated for a moment…but then I figured I might as well tell her the truth (besides most of the time I want to shout it from the mountain tops because I am so excited). “I am on birth control to regulate my cycles in order to be a surrogate mother” As soon as the words came out of my mouth about being a surrogate she stopped typing and smiling. She then stated, “Not everyone thinks that is ok. You need to leave my office and talk to a pastor.” She didn’t finish explaining what I should do for my health but stood and insisted I leave. I was dumbfounded.

This brings me to the point of a time and place to express your opinions. I feel like she should not have treated me that way. It would have been fine if she stated she was not in favor of surrogacy but she kicked me out of her office and cut my much needed visit short. As great of a journey as this may be, I am going to need to need to get a much thicker skin. I am positive this is not the last time my feelings will be hurt in an inappropriate way when it comes to being a surrogate. Living in North Dakota and being a surrogate almost terrifies me in a way. This isn’t something that you hear a lot about in North Dakota, unlike a lot of other states where some might even say it is common. I have been thinking a lot about when it is time for the birth. I want it to be a wonderful experience for the intended parents. I want nothing or no one at the hospital to make them feel uncomfortable or anything else other than the happy feeling of being a new parent!!

Well, no matter what anyone else thinks whether it is positive or negative I know what I think and I think (and so does my husband and daughters) that this is pretty darn exciting!! So even as rude as the doctor was, I still walked out of there with a smile on my face. I feel so blessed to be able to have the chance to give someone the joy of a child. Nothing can take that smile off of my face!