A pair of first-time parents from North Carolina is over the moon as they welcomed their miracle baby, who was conceived through in vitro fertilization (IVF). Susie Troxler, 50, and Tony Troxler, 61, have been trying for a baby naturally, but infertility issues due to the mother's age have hampered their plans for a family.
Two years ago, Susie and Tony tried IVF using an egg donation, but the attempt was unsuccessful. They were planning to go to a second procedure when the coronavirus pandemic hit, temporarily shutting down the fertility clinics.
As the Carolinas Fertility Institute reopened to regular operations in early 2021, Susie and Tony grabbed the opportunity for that second and final IVF procedure. Their difficult journey to becoming parents was worth it when they welcomed their daughter, Lily Antonia Troxler, at the end of September.
Surreal to be 'Mommy' and 'Daddy'
Following Lily's birth, Susie told Cone Health that it's been "so surreal" to become "mommy" and "daddy" for the first time. They cannot thank Dr. Carolyn Harraway-Smith enough for helping them with the in vitro fertilization process that brought their miracle baby into their lives.
Susie said this would not have been possible if the doctor didn't ask her about what she wanted during a routine check-up. Harraway-Smith was sad to learn that the Troxlers were not given any options for their infertility issues from other providers, including adopting a baby if a medical procedure was not in their plans.
The doctor said that it's "always a treat" for her to help couples manage the pregnancy and complete the process with the baby's birth. However, this was extra special since the couple had been trying to have a baby for 13 years.
Tony, part of Cone Health's security team, said that they have never given up on having Lily.
"We dreamed of her," the delighted father said. "We knew no matter how it was going to happen, that it was going to happen."
Susie's IVF Process
Speaking with the media, Susie said she was determined to go through the pregnancy despite her age. Per the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, a pregnancy late in a woman's age increases the chances of complications for both the mother and the baby. Harraway-Smith even advised that pregnancy during a woman's advanced reproductive age isn't for everyone because the mom could develop health issues.
In 2019, Susie had to undergo fibroid surgery before eggs were collected in her uterus. The mother went through "several rounds" of egg retrieval because none of these became viable embryos.
When they turned to egg donation, the Troxlers had only two more chances to have a baby. It finally happened on their last egg.
The pair said they were already at peace with the idea that maybe parenting isn't for them since they found each other. But with Lily now in their lives, every sleepless night has been worth the wait.
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