Todd and Trent: Love, Resilience and Family

Todd and Trent’s journey together began in 2016 when they connected on a dating app. Both Todd and Trent were seeking something genuine, and their shared values and connection quickly became evident. After their initial date, they found that their interests, humor, and life goals aligned in ways that felt natural and fulfilling.
In 2018, Todd proposed to Trent during a magical evening at the Lincoln Park Zoo Lights, a moment that marked the next step in their journey together. Their love continued to grow, and in November 2019, they got married in Ravenswood, surrounded by family and friends. Just months later, they expanded their family by getting their dog, Cashew.
As a same-sex couple, they began researching ways to build a family in January 2022. After exploring their options, they ultimately decided to pursue surrogacy and IVF. They faced setbacks during the journey (e.g., multiple egg donor cycles, failed surrogate matches), which they soon realized was more common than any future parents hope is the case. They are excited to start their family and are grateful for the CCFB. A grant goes a long way toward helping them achieve their dream of becoming parents. They look forward to raising their future children in a household built upon Jewish values.
Todd and Trent are proud uncles to seven nieces and nephews, and they can’t wait to welcome their own children into the family. They are excited for the future as they continue to grow as individuals, as a couple, and as parents one day.
Todd and Trent are recipients of the Path to Parenthood Grant from the Jewish United Fund – Chicago.