Our family’s story has been one of profound challenges, deep heartache, and incredible resilience. Along the way, we have learned to hold onto hope even in the face of grief, and to embrace the unexpected paths that led us to our children.
Early in our marriage, we discovered that starting a family would not be as straightforward as we had imagined. Genetic counseling revealed a chromosomal abnormality called Robertsonian translocation. This diagnosis brought with it many questions and uncertainties, and the reality of infertility became a struggle that tested us in ways we never anticipated. The years that followed were filled with longing, difficult decisions, and the emotional weight of unanswered prayers for a child.
In 2015, our lives were forever changed with the birth of our daughter, Paisley JoyAnn. From the beginning, Paisley has lived up to her name—bringing joy, light, and energy into our home. She is athletic, intelligent, and full of life. Becoming parents to her was an incredible gift, and she continues to be a source of gratitude and inspiration every day.
Our journey did not become easier after Paisley’s birth. We spent another five years facing infertility, setbacks, and losses. Then, in 2020, we were blessed with the natural conception of our son, Redding Arie. The 14 months we shared with him were filled with immeasurable joy. His smile, laughter, and presence brought light into our lives in ways words can hardly capture.
Tragically, our time with Redding was cut short when he passed away unexpectedly. Losing a child is an unimaginable heartbreak—something no parent can ever truly be prepared for. The grief was deep and overwhelming, but we held tightly to the memories and love we shared with him during his short time with us. His life, though brief, left an indelible mark on our hearts.
After walking through such profound loss, we began exploring new possibilities for growing our family. That search led us to embryo adoption through the Snowflakes Program, a family-building option we had not previously considered but one that quickly felt right for us. Through this process, we adopted three embryos—each one a chance at life and a new beginning for our family.
In 2025, we welcomed Truitt Andrew, the first of our adopted embryos to be born. His arrival was nothing short of miraculous for us, a reminder that even after heartbreak and setbacks, there is still space for joy and renewal.
Our family’s story has been filled with both extraordinary highs and devastating lows. Infertility and loss have shaped us, but so has the deep love we hold for each of our children—Paisley, Redding, and Truitt. Each of them has given us unique gifts and lessons about resilience, love, and the beauty of unexpected paths.
While our journey has been far from what we originally envisioned, we are grateful for where it has led. Embryo adoption gave us the opportunity to continue building our family and to embrace the future with hope.
Our children’s lives—those we are privileged to raise and the son we hold in memory—remind us daily of the strength that can be found in love, perseverance, and the willingness to embrace new possibilities.
Do you have an embryo adoption or donation story? Send your story and photos to us! Post them yourself via Facebook or email us your story and we will make it available on our Family Stories page, found on our website.
Email Paige@nightlight.org and help another family build their embryo donation or adoption story.
To learn about embryo donation and adoption, visit EmbryoAdoption.org.
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