Amy, American Intended Parent in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA

Explain your reasons for wanting a surrogate/donor:

Again, well, I am in a bit of a spot here, as this field is mandatory and I had not "prepped" for this answer. Realistically, I am a woman who wanted to bring four healthy children into the world. I expected that would include a husband to help create these blessings and raise them. Life, as we know, does not always work as planned. I would still like at least a couple of children, for whom they would get the kind of mom that other kids' moms want to hang out with, and all the other kids want to hang out at her house. I have a strong support system and a great career. The only thing that I am missing is what means the most to me in life (even more so than finding Mr. Right, although that would be okay, too). - a family of my own. Children that I may love and nurture and foster evolvement into great young adults and then wonderful adults. Although my age and health reasons challenge my ability to conceive and carry a child, it's not the how that my children find me - it's the when. I have always been meant to have children and I cannot imagine my life without the little pitter patter of my little beings that will be loved to the moon and back - and always put first, just as my mom put her children, despite having half a dozen kids, working full time as a nurse (and then as an educator) and earning graduate degrees herself. I know it's not easy, but she sure managed to do everything. It's sad that she will never know my children, but she wanted to meet them very badly. My children will surely know all about their amazing grandmother and great grandmother. Well, once again, a lot to say despite being unprepared. ;)

How would you best describe yourself(s):

Well, I am in a bit on the spot here (as this field is mandatory!). I would describe myself as kind, nurturing, caring and generous because it makes me feel good when others feel good. I am considered fairly intelligent and I have a doctorate (I worked hard for that I am quite proud!). I am athletic (well, I was more so "back in the day"). I mentor in my field and receive great satisfaction in helping students navigate the rough waters of this particular kind of grad school. I love children and animals. I recently lost my pup at 16, and I was so incredibly fortunate to have her in my life and for as long as I did. She was amazing. Until I am ready for another four-legged friend in the house permanently, I foster dogs for a rescue organization of a specific breed. These wonderful dogs are of all ages, in all stages of life, and come to us with most often stories that break your heart. I love to love them and give them the stability, tools, and loving-kindness so that I can best ensure a safe and long-term healthy life in their perfect forever home. Well, this is what you get when I am put on the spot! ;)

Use this space to communicate a letter to potential Surrogates/Donors:

Despite not being prepared to write anything when I came to this web sit, I think my answers to the aforementioned questions speak to the "crux" of who I am. I can say things like how wonderful I am, how I have a wonderful career, a terrific support system, a home in a nice neighborhood with a yard (and playset!) - and all the love and nurturing that any child could have. I am one of "the good ones" - except for my body not being able to allow me to conceive a child. If the physicians allow me to carry a child (or children), then I require a donor (egg). Otherwise, I need a surrogate (either with her own eggs or a donor's eggs). On paper, I may not look as attractive as the twenty or thirty -somethings who are in a similar predicament. However, I have enough life experience and support of women with children that my children will have an amazing life (and it's still not likely that I would be much older than my childrens' friends' parents, after all). Besides, people still think I look at least ten years younger than I am. A curse, I know... Thank you for considering me in your search to find the perfect person who will make you feel amazingly fulfilled by what you are offering to do. THANK YOU. You're the best - truly!