Hola! Thank you for taking the time to read my story. I'm a 38-year-old Latina living in the United States. I'm married and a dog mom. Like many Latina immigrants, I moved to the United States, supported by the hope and opportunities of new beginnings. Part of that, and for as long as I can remember, was wanting to start a family. I reaffirmed this every 28 days, not because I was born a woman, but because I made my choice to want to become a parent. Together, the calling to motherhood that comes from my heart matches the perfect rhythm of the decision in my mind. 

However, after months of trying to get pregnant naturally, the journey took an unexpected turn when I started to recognize my infertility issues. A never before faced obstacle, an incredibly complex medical insurance system, financial considerations, test upon test, and information that was abundant and scarce (often at the wrong times) and not in my native language. Though undeterred, navigating the complexities of Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), and the myriad of other procedures has been complex for me and my husband.

This path towards motherhood led me to relocate to another state in pursuit of better access to fertility treatments. I decided to put my career on hold. I have learned many things throughout my journey over the last four years. I wish someone had shared information with me in my native language.

I have not yet (as my husband always reminds me, with a smile) been able to get pregnant. This struggle has taken a toll on me physically and emotionally. It has impacted my relationship with others and with myself. In addition, this journey has impacted my finances and my professional life. Many things have been put on hold in anticipation of my pregnancy. Despite and because of this, my husband and I have decided to use this time to regain energy, enjoy ourselves more, explore other options (such as adoption), and draft a plan for the next steps. 

Out of gratitude for the blessings in my life and due to the growing desire to be a mother, I will use this time to nurture Apapacha Mama. A place where I can share what I've learned about infertility, motherhood, and children. A place where women can connect and share their stories and information they've learned. A place of support while actively doing things to move along your path. A place where you can grow and learn, regardless of how or when I achieve my motherhood.