We very luckily met in 2013 through some mutual friends, and happily married in May of 2016. As individuals, we are both very family oriented, and that priority has strengthened as a couple. We quickly knew we wanted to build a family of our own, and understood we would need some help along the way.

Weighing all the family building options, we decided to move forward with picking a sperm donor and starting the IUI and eventual IVF process! A year in, we’ve had some setbacks, but couldn’t be more excited with where we are at, and see our future family very near in sight. We recently bought a house, and can’t help but spend a lot of time planning out our extra bedrooms and how useful they will be very soon (we hope!).

This journey has been a challenge, but it has really strengthened our bond as a couple and solidified to us that we really want to be parents. Our dogs, Riley and Mozzie, are very ready to be the best siblings! We are incredibly grateful to be chosen for this grant! This process puts lots on strains on many situations, and the extra financial help really helps allow us to focus on our process and its future successes.

Elena and Tara are recipients of the Path to Parenthood Grant from the Jewish United Fund – Chicago and are proudly featured here with their daughter, Ryan!