One couple’s path to parenthood
BY MARK ARIEL | PHOTO BY ZIV SADE
Two local physicians, Dr. Lissette Gomez (trauma/critical care) and Dr. Brooke Harmssen (hospital/family medicine/emergency medicine), talk to THE FIGHT about their decision to start a family and their path to parenthood.
How long have you been a couple
We became a couple in 2019, got engaged in March 2020 and got married in July 2021.
At what point in your relationship did you decide to start a family?
We knew before we started dating that we wanted kids individually. We revisited the issue when we started dating to make sure we were on the same page regarding how many and how (adoption, carrying, donor etc). Brooke wants four kids and has no desire in being pregnant and Lissette wants two kids and has always wished to carry a baby. We both agreed on a known donor that would be willing to be part of our children’s lives.
“Care Fertility … was more personable than the first clinic we attended and we didn’t just feel like another number. In addition, they have excellent outcomes based on reported data.”
What was the deciding factor in choosing Care Fertility for this endeavor?
Care Fertility (www.carefertility.net) is the second fertility clinic we tried which was recommended to us by friends. Upon going to this clinic—and meeting Dr. Quintero and his team —we noted that it was more personable than the first clinic we attended and we didn’t just feel like another number. In addition, they have excellent outcomes based on reported data, and offered different package options that make the process more affordable than a lot of other clinics.
How far along are you in this journey?
After a couple IUI attempts and discussions with our doctor we opted to move forward with IVF with embryo testing. We are happy with this decision as we are now pregnant with a baby boy and have graduated from the fertility clinic. We also have three girls on ice at the clinic so we can continue to grow our family.
What tips could you provide for folks in our community considering creating a family?
Unfortunately for the LGBTQ community the process of creating a family can seem very daunting so don’t be afraid to ask for help or guidance. Fertility clinics will walk you through everything you need to do to get there. Also ask about financial resources and packages because some clinics offer them.
For more info on LGBTQ fertility options and to schedule your free consultation visit Care Fertility at www.carefertility.net.
