Elizabeth, American Surrogate Mother in Seattle, Washington, USA

Why I want to be a surrogate mother:

Living in a progressive state offers the opportunity for couples of the same sex to wed and shout their love from the mountain tops. So, needless to say, I was shocked to learn that Washington legislation hasn't been passed to encourage surrogacy in this state. I want to do this for myself, for a couple, gay or straight, or a single parent. I also want to encourage others to step forward and see this, not as something unusual but, as something beautiful. As a surrogate, you're offering a bond so unique and life changing; nothing compares.

Description of myself:

I'm an employed, married mother of one. I've never been a surrogate but have done some heavy research on the topic and find the whole idea heartwarming.

My letter to intended parents:

I want to work with someone who has always known they were meant to be a parent, someone who can love unconditionally, even after 48 hours with only a few hours of sleep and no shower. I wouldn't mind someone micro-involved in the process: attending OB and ultrasound appointments, encouraging me to be on the diet you'd maintain if it were you, exercise plans, being in the OR during the birth, initiating skin-to-skin contact immediately after the birth so the baby immediately bonds to your touch and scent; these are things I took pleasure in with my son and hope I can gift them to someone else. The first time your child wraps their hand around your finger, life makes complete sense; I want to offer the right person or couple this clarity.