The Pros & Cons of Infertility

When we received Kyle's diagnosis, we thought we'd figured it out. Years later we're more confused and lost than ever before. But with all things, you have to look at the good and bad side of any situation. This list could be modified on a daily basis and maybe at a later date I'll revise it accordingly. But for now, in no particular order, the pros and cons of infertility.

Pros:
1. It's made us and our marriage stronger than we could ever imagine. We've had to rely on each other in moments of despair and weakness and even when one of us is down and out, the other is always there to comfort.
2. We've learned to take nothing for granted. We appreciate the little everyday things.
3. It's changed the dynamics within our family for the better. We've been able to confide in the people that love us most and feel comfortable coming to them for advice and reassurance.
4. It's made us realize who our true friends are. Although we haven't told everyone, those we have, have shown their true colors, whether good or bad. We've come to realize we are lucky to have some amazing people in our life and these true friends have given us endless support and a shoulder to lean on.

Cons:
1. It's caused us immense heartache, distress, anguish, despair, anger, bitterness, confusion, and uncertainty. There aren't enough words in the English language to express the hell we've been through.
2. We've had something so natural stripped away from us. To know that we will never create a life together is a very difficult thing to digest. It's a loss we are mourning and will continue to mourn for years to come.
3. It's emotionally, mentally, physically, spiritually, and financially draining. It affects every aspect of our life. No matter what we do, we can't escape infertility.
4. We've spent tens and thousands of dollars and have nothing to show for it. We've had to deplete our savings to fund the costs. Our future has been greatly altered because of this and we'll never get back that money.
5. We will never forget all the pain and suffering we've endured. The old saying, one day we'll understand why, is the biggest load of bullshit. We will never understand why because there is no good reason why. We don't deserve this. No one ever does.
6. I've put myself at future risk due to all the medications I've had to take. Most of the medications were for a use besides IVF. The large amounts could potentially cause future complications including, but not limited to, ovarian cancer. And for what?
7. This awful hell we are stuck in is far from over. Regardless of how much misery and money we have been through already, there's no end in sight.