“We are very grateful for our medical team and the Maternal Fetal Medicine Clinic at Humber—we have our family because of them,” says Jennifer.

Jennifer’s journey to motherhood began in 2019. After trying to conceive for two years, she turned to in vitro fertilization (IVF), a process where an egg is fertilized by sperm outside the body and then implanted in the uterus. Her first child, Sophia, was born as a result, with her second child, Max following some years later using the same process. 

Unfortunately, complications arose with her third pregnancy and her OB/GYN, Dr. André LaRoche, referred Jennifer to the Maternal Fetal Medicine Clinic (MFM) where she worked with MFM Specialist, Dr. Howard Berger and Medical Director of Nephrology, Dr. Laura Berall. 

At 22 weeks, Jennifer was diagnosed with preeclampsia – a pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to another organ (often the kidneys). If she did not act quickly, Jennifer would be faced with the devastating choice between terminating the pregnancy of her daughter Alessia or risking losing her own life. Sadly, the final decision was to terminate the pregnancy. “Losing Alessia was the most traumatic experience of my life,” says Jennifer. “The grief was overwhelming, and it left a deep void in my heart.” 

Baby Anthony with a picture of the baby prints of his sister, Alessia. Alessia’s pregnancy was terminated due to severe preeclampsia. But with the support of Humber’s Maternal Fetal Medicine Clinic, Jennifer was able to deliver her fourth child, Anthony.

Reflecting on her journey, Jennifer cannot imagine what would have happened without the support of the MFM Clinic. “The initial meeting to discuss terminating Alessia’s pregnancy was one of the toughest moments I’ve ever faced,” says Jennifer. “However, the approach taken by the hospital staff was exemplary. They made sure we had all the information we needed, answering every question patiently and without any rush.” 

One of the standout aspects of her experience was the accessibility and support from the doctors and staff. “Humber’s commitment to patient care is exceptional,” says Jennifer. “The regular appointments and the ability to quickly address any concerns were vital in easing my worries.” 

Despite her trauma, Jennifer remained resolute in her desire to grow her family. Five months after losing Alessia’s, Jennifer decided to try again. In August 2023, with the approval and support of her team at Humber River Health, she embarked on another round of IVF. The process was fraught with anxiety and fear, but the MFM Clinic provided unwavering support. 

“They wanted to make sure I was mentally okay to go ahead and get pregnant again. The check-ins and support from the team were invaluable,” says Jennifer. 

“When I brought Anthony to show the team, it was a proud moment for my husband and me,” says Jennifer. Dr. André LaRoche was one of many who shared in the celebrating of baby Anthony.

Regular appointments and the availability of the doctors eased her anxiety. Even during moments of intense fear, like suspecting preeclampsia, the team responded swiftly and thoroughly, reassuring her that everything was okay.

“I can’t even imagine what would have happened if we didn’t have access to the MFM Clinic, and the support from Dr. Berger, Dr. Berall, Dr. LaRoche and the rest of the team. They made us feel at ease during such an uncertain time,” says Jennifer. “Their proactive approach and continuous support made all the difference.” 

The delivery of her fourth baby, Anthony, was a culmination of careful monitoring and the dedicated support of Jennifer’s medical team. Despite the challenges, and her overwhelming emotions, the preparation and presence of a fully equipped medical team ensured a smooth delivery. 

Jennifer is filled with gratitude for the team at Humber. Their support was not just medical but deeply personal, forming a bond that forged the path to growing her family. “It wasn’t just medical appointments. We talked and laughed, forming a relationship,” says Jennifer. “When I brought Anthony to show the team, it was a proud moment for my husband and me. Dr. Berall even came in on her day off to see Anthony. We are very grateful for our medical team at Humber—we have our family because of them.” 

The support that Jennifer received throughout her journey inspired her to make a donation in honour of the MFM Clinic. She also hopes to contribute to developing support systems within Humber, ensuring that other women have access to the same level of care and compassion that she received. 

If you would like to learn more about our Maternal & Child Program and how you can support our MFM Clinic Expansion, please contact Judene Stewarts at justewart@hrh.ca

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