A dental hygienist’s inspiring story
Taylor Greenhagen, a dental hygienist from Kansas City, Missouri, shares the compelling journey behind her two children, Owen and Dylan, conceived simultaneously through in vitro fertilization (IVF), yet born three years apart. Together with her pharmacist husband, Justin, Greenhagen cherishes the close-knit bond between her children.
Sibling Bond
Owen and Dylan exhibit a strong sibling bond. Greenhagen remarks on their innate closeness. “Owen has been the sweetest big brother from the very beginning,” Greenhagen shares with Newsweek. “Dylan adores him and lights up when watching him.” The family bond is evident despite the young age of three and seven months, creating a sense of friendship among them.
Fertility Journey
Annuating PCOS led Greenhagen to IVF after unsuccessful IUIs. “We chose IVF after struggling with anovulatory PCOS,” she explained. IVF became a viable option for family expansion.
Though supportive care from the fertility clinic and her husband’s encouragement aided her, IVF was daunting. “It’s physically, emotionally, and mentally demanding,” she acknowledged.
The IVF Process
Post egg retrieval, IVF involves fertilizing and monitoring eggs over five to six days to identify embryo development. Greenhagen’s experience yielded eight embryos cultured side by side. Within IVF circles, children from the same embryo group are affectionately termed ‘fraternal twins’—despite biological differences in their timeline.
Greenhagen reflects on her children’s unique bond due to the shared embryo cohort. “Owen and Dylan have a special connection,” she admires. “Their relationship grows as if they knew each other before meeting.” Even with this maternal outlook, the children’s relationship is deeply felt.
Guidance and Reflection
Acknowledging varied fertility experiences, Greenhagen offers advice: “Be kind, give yourself grace during the process. Rely on your support system and advocate for yourself.” Her view highlights IVF as an act driven by hope and bravery to grow a loving family.
The journey involves challenges, yet with perseverance and hope, the family thrives.
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