I had my first child naturally without a shred of doubt about any risks or problems that may have involved a human life. I assumed that since my husband and I were organically well, the same would be true for our children. Within a few months, life proved me wrong as without any symptoms or predispositions, my son was diagnosed with muscular dystrophy. A condition that weakens the muscles so much that eventually respiratory and cardiac function cannot be supported. Life expectancy in his third decade.
At that point I began to mourn and close one by one the capitals of my life that we had just opened. I had a new life and a new baby and I already had to give it all up. Along with the hope of having more children since unfortunately the problem was in my own genes and I was functioning as a carrier. For many years we tried to make a decision about the facts but the hardest part was getting used to the idea that not only would we have a child who would need care and nursing for as long as she lived, but that we would never be able to dream of having more children ever again.
I did my research and I was informed that in cases like ours, a scientific method using IVF is applied that allows the detection of the defective gene, enabling the selection of a healthy embryo and not the abnormal one. It is called pre-implantation testing, and the IVF idea matured within us over the years.
Our ego didn’t allow us to consider ourselves weak and wounded. It was a very difficult transition but as the doctor later told us “our cause is sacred”. Our first attempt was at a well known centre with also well known doctors. Throughout the months of trying without success, I heard of cases of friends who had made it to Genesis Clinic. I decided, fortunately, to change my doctor soon, and turn to Mr. Sfakianoudis. I had read testimonials and was determined to keep trying with him. Our personal contact was reassuring, clear and simple. He inspired confidence in my success without promising anything to me.
Moreover, in this uncertain phase of my life, the doctor was always available and attuned with our feelings, which was very calming.Basically, I had the feeling that I was in the right place at the right time. As unbelievable as it sounds, within two attempts the embryo was healthy and waiting for me.The embryo transfer was successful and now I look at my baby and cry knowing that I would live without that joy for the rest of my life.
Scientifically and as far as I am able to know, Genesis has the best embryologists and the most sophisticated laboratories. Preimplantation testing (PGD-PGS) requires more steps than traditional IVF and involves a higher failure rate and time delay. But there is one team that leaves nothing to chance! It was all done simply and quickly. So much so that I still can’t believe it.
I want to conclude that the whole process of stimulation, which is a hassle for some, the drugs, the money, the egg collection, the anesthesia, the trips to Athens, all of this and so much more I would do over and over again. When you hold your child in your hands, these are the most beautiful memories. And that’s what all the girls who go through the same process as me must feel. The joy of hope and anticipation. The faith and persistence that they will make it. No pessimism and resignation, because good things will come in the end.
What can I say about Mr Sfakianoudis… I praise God for bringing me to his path. I believe that we are lucky as a country that he is Greek and that we live in the same era as he did. What I say comes from my heart without any intention to exaggerate. His simplicity in relation to his contribution to humanity makes me ashamed of the times I am proud of myself. I hope all families feel as we do.
Doctor, thank you for the life you have given back to us
