"After my family was complete it seemed such a waste that my eggs would be unused. I didn't want more children but I wished the same happiness for other, less fortunate couples. I just didn't really know what to do with it.
One morning I saw an item on GMTV highlighting the issue of egg shortage. That prompted me to take action that same day and I contacted a clinic. I had a consultation with the consultant who explained the procedure but also the drawbacks in great length. It didn't change my mind and I started the initial tests and procedures.
After the all clear I started on the medication. To be perfectly honest I can't remember much about how often I had to go to the clinic and what it all entailed. It obviously didn't make much of an impact. When the eggs started to develop there was some slight discomfort at the end. No wonder, I had over 12 ripe eggs hanging from my ovaries.
I had to go to another clinic for the harvesting as they call it. The procedure was under general anaesthetic and pretty straightforward. I walked out a couple of hours later, feeling absolutely fine.
What I do remember from these 2 months of my life was the feeling that I was doing something very special. I felt very proud that I was doing such an unselfish thing. It may sound silly but it was a tremendous ego-boost.
It's 5 years ago and I still feel special. It has been one of the most rewarding things of my life. I decided not to know what had happened with my eggs and whether it resulted in a pregnancy. I don't need to know. I have given another couple the chance to close that chapter of their life. I hope so much that it resulted in at least one healthy child.
Knowing that there are families who may say to the sky: "Wherever you are donor, thanks for all you've done" makes me feel fantastic and makes it all worthwhile.
I am considered too old now but otherwise, I would do it again!"
One morning I saw an item on GMTV highlighting the issue of egg shortage. That prompted me to take action that same day and I contacted a clinic. I had a consultation with the consultant who explained the procedure but also the drawbacks in great length. It didn't change my mind and I started the initial tests and procedures.
After the all clear I started on the medication. To be perfectly honest I can't remember much about how often I had to go to the clinic and what it all entailed. It obviously didn't make much of an impact. When the eggs started to develop there was some slight discomfort at the end. No wonder, I had over 12 ripe eggs hanging from my ovaries.
I had to go to another clinic for the harvesting as they call it. The procedure was under general anaesthetic and pretty straightforward. I walked out a couple of hours later, feeling absolutely fine.
What I do remember from these 2 months of my life was the feeling that I was doing something very special. I felt very proud that I was doing such an unselfish thing. It may sound silly but it was a tremendous ego-boost.
It's 5 years ago and I still feel special. It has been one of the most rewarding things of my life. I decided not to know what had happened with my eggs and whether it resulted in a pregnancy. I don't need to know. I have given another couple the chance to close that chapter of their life. I hope so much that it resulted in at least one healthy child.
Knowing that there are families who may say to the sky: "Wherever you are donor, thanks for all you've done" makes me feel fantastic and makes it all worthwhile.
I am considered too old now but otherwise, I would do it again!"
Laura Witjens