Elena, Italian Surrogate Mother in Milan, Italy

Why I want to be a surrogate mother:

Despite some past long-term relationships, I decided not to have children for myself. I am blessed with good health, a rewarding profession, and a comfortable financial situation. I would love to share my privileges with like-minded individuals who need help to build their own family, and in this way deeply connect with a loving couple. I also like the idea of altruistic surrogacy because I consider it unfair that many couples have to resort to agencies overseas, which is not affordable to all.

Description of myself:

I am from Italy, though, having worked as a humanitarian engineer for many years, I have lived abroad since I was 24. My profession made me grow through diversity and challenges. I am a healthy, non-smoking individual, I love hiking and climbing; and icecream. I think of myself as a strong and active person, with a deep sense of social justice, and a desire to do good.

My letter to intended parents:

Ciao IntendedParents! What a huge step we are both willing to do. So big it is important to be transparent from the beginning. I start: I would prefer a traditional surrogacy, to keep it as natural as possible, but I am open to other options as well. As the child would be your life project, I'd like to share all the stages of the pregnancy with you, and hopefully build throughout it a deep trust and connection. After birth, I would like to spend some time with you and the baby, to help you with breastfeeding if possible. But I also don't want to interfere with your and the child’s life: I’d like to remain in touch like a distant auntie, but mainly because I hope a good friendship will develop spontaneously throughout the adventure together. As you'll be the pilots of the journey, I am open to considering all of your requests, from listening Mozart to organic food, from yoga to termination in case of need (sorry to mention this, but it might be important for you). I hold no prejudice about "who" you should be, but it would be important to know that we have basic values in common. I'd love parents that are ready to teach environmental and social justice, and the value of science, and welcome and support whoever the child will decide to be in their future. I am sure that, as you're here, you're full of love and care. But I also know that humans can also sometimes hurt people they love. I would value it very much if you'd be open to counseling during the journey, and I am ready to do the same. Finally, in Italy, the law allowing altruistic surrogacy is still in the early stages and won't be approved for ages. But I am ready to travel anywhere in Europe both before and during pregnancy.