After our last miscarriage something occurred to me. Women facing infertility and miscarriage don't want to talk about their problems. And when they do people around them have a hard time relating to them and they don't know what to say. Some people who want to support and love them end up saying the wrong things. So I decided to make this blog public. So public we put it in our Christmas letter. So for those of you who've been reading, our names aren't really "John and Jane", my name is Ashliegh and I'm married to a pretty awesome guy- Scott. We live in Alaska and we have experienced infertility for over two years and have had three miscarriages since June of 2011.
And a little extra word of encouragement. Lots of people have told me "you are SO young, you have plenty of time". I may only be 24, and Scott only 27. But that doesn't discount our heartache or what we are going through. So the next time you come across someone experiencing these things, sometimes it's better to listen or offer a hug. One of my best friends has been a great help through all of this and most of the time she just sits there and listens and lets me cry on her shoulder. That can be the biggest help.
Here's a preview of our Christmas Letter we sent out- and a picture of us on our recent trip to The Caribbean :)
Dear Family and Friends,
I hope this letter finds you happy and healthy this holiday season. 2011 has been a wonderful year, and we hope it’s been the same for you. We’ve had a year of growth, struggle, grace and triumph. But as always, we’ve seen the providence of God in every decision and step we take.
Scott is still working diligently at Kenai New Life Assembly of God. For the past two years, he has served as the Christian Education Director but will transition into the Youth Ministry in January. I’m proud to say he just finished his credentialing test to become a Licensed Minister. He has worked very hard the past couple years to achieve this goal. Scott also serves as the President of the Kenai Peninsula Soccer Club. He definitely stays busy but is such an inspiration to me.
As for myself, I’m still working as a Surgical Tech at our local hospital. I was recently accepted into Surgical Assisting School through Meridian Institute out of Tennessee, and will finish in September of 2012. It’s a challenging career but very rewarding as well. I stay involved with the church as a Sunday school teacher, worship team member and women’s ministry events. It’s been a blessing to us to be a part of New Life Assembly of God; not only because of the church, but the people at New Life have encouraged us as well.
Recently, I’ve realized how amazing those friends are. For those of you who don’t know, we’ve struggled to conceive a child for the past two years. During that time our church members, family and friends have supported us endlessly. After prayer and careful consideration, this summer we decided to move forward with fertility treatments. Between May and October, we endured three miscarriages. It was one of the most heart breaking times we’ve ever experienced. Though we’ve been through a lot this year we still see the Lord guiding our steps. This experience has definitely opened our eyes to the need of infertile couples.
During this holiday season we ask you to not only keep us in your prayers but those around you who may be experiencing the same struggle. This journey has taught me a lot and my knowledge has grown regarding infertility. Many women are scared, uncomfortable, or too hurt to talk about it. I would like to break that mold and offer support and help to those experiencing infertility. If you know someone who would like support or prayer please ask them to contact me through my blog, www.prayersinapetridish.blogspot.com.
We appreciate your love, support and prayers as we continue our difficult path. We also hope this holiday season is filled with blessing for you and your family.
| But those who trust in the LORD will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint. ~Isaiah 40:31 |
Scott & Ashliegh
The Melting Pot in Ft. Lauderdale, FL - SO delicious!
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