(if collecting life experiences was a personal brand, I’d own this one outright)
A poem and reflection by Erica Ferraro,
One morning I woke
And looked in the mirror
Same face, same eyes, same heart
But today things feel clearer
It doesn’t happen overnight
It’s not one moment you can see
But for the first time in a long time
I am completely at peace with all that is me
When an ending must happen
There is a lesson to be had
I know now that it can be a blessing
It doesn’t have to be viewed as bad
That’s because life’s greatest teachers
Only come when you know
it’s through life’s set backs, not triumphs
Where we can truly grow
And to those who chose to add grief
during the hardest year of my life
I pray you too become better
And you never have to know this kind of strife
If by collecting life experiences
I had to evolve so I could see
That I’m actually thankful for the journey
I had to be her, to be me
So whatever it is you’re going through
Whatever hard time has found you
Wear it as a badge of honor
Your more well rounded, and relatable now too
We don’t ask for all we are given
Sometimes it seems unfair
But a life without experience is the true catastrophe
And you were made for much more flair
It’s like they always say
Though it’s never rang more true:
The harder the path, the higher the calling;
You’ve ascended to the next version of you
🤍 by Erica Ferraro
Thank you to all of my followers have been with me on this journey; life is a roller coaster! And whatever the mountain is that you are moving, I hope that when you look back you can thoroughly enjoy the view 🏔️
My brand new book — the first professionally published infertility survival guide — is officially available on Amazon, along with a powerful companion patient advocacy eBook. 💖 Whether you’re in the thick of it or supporting someone who is, this guide is a lifeline.
This project has been a mountain climb of heart, healing, and hope — and today, we’ve reached the summit. 🏔️
Endless gratitude to my incredible publisher @tarynlagonigro at @fourcloverspublishing 🍀 for believing in this mission and helping it rise to new heights. To the dream team of branding/graphics, thank you for turning a topic that is typically sterile and scary into something absolutely beautiful @carley.storm.brandingco @kristin_nj_yogini 💖🏔️🥾
👉 Order your copy now on Amazon, leave a review if it speaks to you, and most importantly — share this resource with someone who might need it. You never know what mountain they’re climbing. 💬🧗♀️
Please join me and key experts featured in my new book, MOVING MOUNTAINS FOR MOTHERHOOD: the first professionally published infertility survival guide in the United States, in recognition of infertility awareness month and the launch of this important resource! Sign ups are free, links below! 👇
I am so excited to share this special project that I have been working on, as a preamble to my larger print book, Moving Mountains for Motherhood (the first professionally published infertility survival guide in the US!) launching in June! This e-book is a complement to that larger book, specifically focused on patient advocacy — a topic very near and dear to my heart as a sales and marketing professional who has worked in the pharmaceutical industry for over a decade, as well as experienced many years of infertility and IVF treatments as a patient.
WHAT IS PATIENT ADVOCACY? Patient advocacy refers to the act of supporting and representing the interests of patients in healthcare settings. It involve
Read below for a description of my new e-book, & ORDER your copy TODAY! Or, send to a friend who may benefit from reading it.
ABOUT my new e-book:
Empowered Fertility: Advocating for Your Infertility Journey is a compassionate, practical guide for anyone navigating the complex world of infertility. Written by fertility advocate and IVF mom Erica Ferraro, this book empowers readers to take control of their care with clarity, confidence, and courage.
Drawing from her personal experience and professional background in the pharmaceutical industry, Erica helps readers understand how the medical system works—and how to advocate within it. Through five straightforward chapters, she covers how to choose the right doctor and clinic, push for comprehensive testing, communicate clearly with your care team, and recognize red flags in treatment.
This book doesn’t just offer advice—it validates the emotional experience of infertility and the toll it can take on your mental health, relationships, and self-worth. From managing advocacy fatigue to balancing hope and burnout, Empowered Fertility is a trusted companion during a deeply personal and often overwhelming journey.
Whether you’re just starting to explore treatment options or are deep into cycles of IVF, this book is a reminder that you are not alone—and that you don’t need to be a medical expert to get the care you deserve. With real-life insight, actionable steps, and supportive guidance, Empowered Fertility will help you reclaim your voice and move forward with strength.
I can’t believe we’re finally here!! So much work, effort, and emotional vulnerability went into bringing my new book, Moving Mountains for Motherhood, a Guide to Survive and Thrive Through Your Infertility Journey, to the market!
Books will start shipping on June 3, but you can pre-order your copy today to receive free shipping as well as a free downloadable guide with key questions to ask a fertility clinic that you are considering doing treatments with, sent instantly, to your email!
I hope this book helps somebody who needs it and shines a little bit of light in what may feel like the darkest season of life.
Moving Mountains for Motherhood, A Guide to Survive and Thrive Through Your Infertility Journey is the first professionally published infertility survival guide! It is packed with expert opinion, true stories, and lots of hard earned wisdom. I am beyond proud of this book and I hope you enjoy it!
Please share this information with a friend; this book would make an incredible gift for anybody you know going through fertility treatments 🥰💉📖
A heartfelt thank you to Jill Conway from Secrets of Powerful Women for hosting my first press interview for my new book, Moving Mountains for Motherhood! Her belief in this project inspires me so much. It’s very vulnerable for me to share my book with others, especially as more people read the manuscript. I find myself holding my breath waiting to see what they think.
Jill started the interview by congratulating me on writing, what she believes, “will be an international bestseller.” My heart be still! It was an honor to be interviewed by her, and also, to hear an endorsement like that from someone who has interviewed many authors throughout her career. I have no idea what level of success this book is going to have but, I do hope it helps someone who needs it. That’s why I wrote it, after all. Listen to my podcast interview with her and follow the Secrets of Powerful Women’s blog and podcast here!
Presales start on March 25th! Mark your calendars!
Guys, I did it. I wrote the first professionally published infertility guide in the United States. Honestly, I’m not sure where I found the time between working full-time and mom-ing full-time, but, like they say, we make time for the things we want to!
Please sign up for our Pre-Sale Distribution List!! We are collecting e-mails for those who want to be alerted as to when the book is live for purchase (March 25, 2025). Books will be printed and shipped the first week of June to align with National Infertility Awareness Month!
A HUGE thank you to Jill Conway from The Secrets of Powerful Women who broadcasted my first press interview about the book last week on Long Island radio 103.9 as well as on her podcast! You can listen to the full interview here.
In addition to some initial press coverage, Four Clovers publishing and I are excited to share a first glimpse at the book’s cover. It feels surreal to see myself on a book cover… wow that’s close up! haha!
Thank you to Carley Storm Branding for the front cover photo as well as Kristin Broek for the cover design! My publisher, Taryn, has incredible connections who have truly elevated this work and brought my new book, to life!
Share with a friend, or anyone you know going through infertility who would benefit from a resource like this! I can’t believe this is happening! Worst Club, Best Members!
“Maybe your path is harder, because your calling is higher” – anonymous
The beginning of a new year is often filled with excitement, resolutions, and fresh starts. For those navigating infertility, however, the holiday season and the arrival of a new year can bring mixed emotions—hope for the future, but also anxiety, grief, or frustration over unmet goals. It’s important to acknowledge these feelings and approach the new year with strategies that support both emotional well-being and resilience.
Here are some insights and strategies to help you embrace the coming year while managing infertility.
1. Reflect on the Past Year with Compassion
It’s natural to feel discouraged if milestones weren’t met this year, especially when it comes to something as deeply personal as building a family. However, take a moment to reflect not only on the challenges but also on the strength you’ve shown.
Journaling: Write about the small victories, whether they’re related to health, relationships, or self-discovery.
Reframe setbacks: Viewing setbacks as stepping stones rather than failures can help shift your mindset.
2. Set Intentions, Not Resolutions
Traditional resolutions can feel rigid, creating unnecessary pressure. Instead, focus on setting gentle, meaningful intentions for the year ahead.
Focus on what you can control: Examples might include prioritizing self-care, nurturing your relationships, or seeking new hobbies that bring joy.
Explore options: If you’re considering medical treatments, alternative approaches, or adoption, set realistic goals for exploring these pathways.
3. Create a Support System
Infertility can feel isolating, but you don’t have to face it alone.
Connect with others: Join a support group, whether online or in person, to meet others who understand what you’re experiencing.
Communicate with loved ones: Be open with close friends or family members about how they can support you.
4. Practice Self-Compassion
Infertility often comes with feelings of guilt or inadequacy, but it’s crucial to remind yourself that this journey is not your fault.
Mindfulness practices: Yoga, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises can help you stay present and reduce stress.
Therapy: Consider working with a counselor or therapist who specializes in infertility to process your emotions.
5. Take Breaks When Needed
Pursuing fertility treatments or other family-building efforts can be emotionally and physically draining. Give yourself permission to pause and recharge.
Plan breaks: Whether it’s a weekend getaway or simply time spent with loved ones, taking breaks can offer a sense of normalcy and renewal.
Rediscover joy: Invest time in activities that make you happy outside of the fertility journey.
6. Celebrate Small Wins
Every step you take—whether it’s starting a new treatment, advocating for yourself, or simply getting through a tough day—is worth acknowledging.
Create rituals: Light a candle, treat yourself to something special, or write affirmations to honor your progress.
7. Embrace Hope, Even If It Looks Different
The path to parenthood is rarely linear, and for some, it may involve redefining what family means. Embrace hope, but also allow space for flexibility.
Explore alternative paths: Whether it’s surrogacy, fostering, or adoption, researching different options can provide clarity and hope.
Cultivate gratitude: While it’s essential to honor your pain, focusing on the positives in your life can also bring peace.
8. Seek Professional Guidance
Navigating infertility often requires expert advice.
Medical professionals: Work with a trusted fertility specialist to explore your options.
Financial advisors: Infertility treatments can be costly, so consider seeking financial guidance to plan effectively.
Final Thoughts
The new year offers an opportunity to reset, not by erasing the challenges of the past but by finding strength in them. As you step into this next chapter, remind yourself that you are resilient and deserving of compassion. By embracing a balance of hope, self-care, and support, you can approach the year ahead with courage and grace.
Remember: Your journey is uniquely yours, and every step—no matter how small—is a testament to your strength. You are not alone, and brighter days are ahead.
This poem was written on August 2, 2023, the morning that we received our first positive pregnancy test after an unbelievable, 2+ year fertility battle. If you’re going through infertility, and you feel like no one understands, I hope these words comfort your heart, today.
By: Erica Ferraro
The last two years were unfathomable,
They put us to the test.
Without even knowing it,
we were becoming blessed.
–
It all started in 2021,
when we decided to have a baby.
Little did we know,
the journey would be crazy..
–
One in six couples
struggles to conceive,
But why us? Why now?
How could this be?
–
One laparoscopy surgery,
and a fertility consult later.
We soon came to learn,
having a baby would not be in our favor.
–
For you see in order to make a baby,
we just assume the matter,
that eggs and sperm are abundant,
and we all get them on a silver platter.
–
However, this is not the truth for everyone,
no, not even close.
Many couples have neither eggs nor sperm,
and sometimes, they lack both!
–
Without these key ingredients,
what will we do?
How could it be possible,
to ever get to you?
–
And it wouldn’t be a battle,
unless everyone you knew,
was quite suddenly very pregnant,
completely out of the blue!
–
“Congratulations!” We expressed.
“I’m so excited for you!”
While my mental health deteriorated,
and our options were very few.
–
The torment of wanting a child,
and never knowing if it will be your turn,
is a type of earthbound suffering
I can’t fully put into words.
–
When you’re backed into a corner
and your options are slim,
you have no choice but to get creative,
and think of a new way to win.
–
You don’t know what you’re willing to do,
unless you have no choice.
There are many ways to process trauma,
but I decided to give it a voice.
–
To the internet I went,
to find other unlucky souls.
Who rarely make their presence known,
but online, their truths can be told.
–
I soon connected with fellow warriors,
amongst all the various conditions.
PCOS, Endo, RPL – you name it!
These are sisters who will listen.
–
They don’t tell you to relax,
or that it’s just not your time.
They know what it’s like to be excluded,
like infertility is a crime.
–
The more women I met,
the more obvious it became.
That the more we hide our experiences,
the more we feed into the shame.
–
Egg retrieval after failed egg retrieval,
an experimental PRP with more disappointment.
The year flew by and I was no closer
to a pregnancy appointment.
–
The decision finally came,
to move on from my own eggs.
Because the desire to become a mother,
became stronger than genetics begs.
–
There are angels who walk among us
that offer their organs on loaner.
But in my experience the most profound people,
are those who decide to be an egg or sperm donor.
–
Many times it is someone,
who feels called to this path.
A whisper from the heavens:
“Another family needs you, act fast!”
–
We were matched with our donor,
and everything felt right.
For the first time in years,
the future could be bright.
–
Genetics do not make a family,
even if they give us our fingers and toes.
Rather it’s our parent’s love and intention,
which creates all the people we know.
–
This path was not cheap,
and we needed some help.
Without fear we asked for support,
And an abundance of love we felt.
–
Through fundraising, blogging,
and new part time jobs,
the experience of parenthood,
we refused to be robbed.
–
I agreed to three months of torture;
to hopefully defy all odds,
that’s right, 30 years old,
I went through menopause!
–
The summer of 2023,
where I truly felt like a human shell.
I believe the devil himself,
couldn’t handle the heat of this hell.
–
But lo and behold,
our prayers were heard.
When we fertilized our donor eggs,
the doctor could barely get out a word!
–
For we had made five embryos
out of eight precious eggs.
From a complete stranger that I’ll never know,
who has changed our life in every way.
–
With five chances to have a baby,
The odds are now in our favor.
A positive pregnancy test would appear,
that we soon would savor.
–
“You’re going to hate being pregnant” they said.
“You’re going to be so sick.”
I laughed to myself, “well maybe, but
nothing will ever compare to having the other shit end of the stick.”
–
And so with gratitude, compassion,
and new empathy founded,
I stand before you today,
and I’m completely astounded.
–
I never thought this was possible,
it probably shouldn’t have been,
but thanks to science, determination, and the support of others,
Dealing with infertility is like starring in a tragic drama most of the time. There is a silver lining: sometimes you get to laugh. If you do not, you will swim in an ocean of tears forever. As someone who has had their fair share of tearful moments over something they cannot control, I have decided to find the absurdity, humor, and downright craziness in this whole ordeal.
The more I meet fellow warriors in this battle, the more I see trends in our experiences. So, here is my 30-step experience of the infertility rodeo. This was my experience, but I am betting it’ll tickle your infertility-infused funny bone, too! This insanity is a rite of passage, so buckle up, sister, and get ready to be hazed into the worst club with some of the best members.
Step 1: Your period could give Broadway a run for its money with its dramatic flair, elusiveness, and complexity.
Step 2: You have become a female period-cycle prophet, educating your friends and possibly even your mother on the intricacies of their bodies, like a menstrual maestro.
Step 3: Remember that collection of ovulation strips, basal temperature thermometers, and temperature jewelry you thought would help you conceive? Well, they have become the sacrificial offerings in your ceremonial acceptance of an alternate route to motherhood, set ablaze in a mystical fertility ritual.
Step 4: You finally make that appointment with a fertility doctor, even though you harbor doubts that they possess any realistic solutions. And IVF? NO WAY are you doing that.
Step 5: You have given the doctor more blood than Dracula ever dreamed of, and the diagnosis is always stranger than your wildest dreams. Yup, you are doing IVF, jokes on you.
Step 6: Your fertility doctor becomes a savior—with a price tag equivalent to your home’s mortgage and 401(k) combined. And do not forget, there are no guarantees; it is all about variables and odds.
Step 7: You have pondered the meaning of life and your existence more times than someone in a mid-life crisis. You tell a few close friends and family members that you need to do IVF, and someone says,“Are you sure you need to? Is this really what you want?”
Step 8: Guilt and resentment take center stage as you blame yourself or your partner (or both) for drawing the unlucky infertility card.
Step 9: In a surprising twist, you realize it is no one’s fault and feel bad for feeling bad in the first place. It is a guilt inception.
Step 10: You have a love-hate relationship with Google, Facebook Support Groups, Instagram infertility accounts, and the whole online TTC community. They have been your saviors and your spiraling partners-in-crime multiple times.
Step 11: As you quickly discover, the online TTC community is a mix of greatness, craziness, drama, cliques, and some seriously weird competition.
Step 12: You find your tribe online, carefully curating whose content you engage with and who gets a peek into your journey.
Step 13: The incredible souls you meet online become the besties you have never met.
Step 14: You start unfairly comparing your real-life friends to your online IVF girl gang, even though it is like comparing apples to oranges. But, hey, you do it anyway.
Step 15: When you thought life could not get any more ironic, everyone you know in real life suddenly gets pregnant—especially those who weren’t even trying. And they love sharing that tidbit, causing you to put on a brave face through their insensitive comments.
Step 16: Friends and family announce pregnancies for their second, third, and fourth children while you wait for your first. Their gender disappointment and disdain for not getting the exact scenario they wanted only add to the ironic shit-show of your own life.
Step 17: Anger, resentment, and bitterness start brewing, leading to a one-way ticket to IsolationVille.
Step 18: You try IUI or IVF, but it does not work, and you are left both financially broke and brokenhearted.
Step 19: Your doctor suggests a new treatment protocol, and you obsessively research, poll others online, and ask, “Did you try the Lupron flare protocol, too?”
Step 20: You find just as many success stories as failures, yet you still empty your pockets because, frankly, you have no other choice.
Step 21: The hormone medications play tricks on your body, packing on the pounds while you are told you are not allowed to exercise during treatment. The universe seems to conspire against you.
Step 22: Reality sinks in: this journey will not be easy, straightforward, or cheap. Bitterness will not change that. So, you decide to embrace the absurdity.
Step 23: Patience, grace, empathy, and gratitude become your sidekicks in a way you never imagined. You start seeing everyone else’s first-world problems, feeling disconnected from “regular people,” but still trying to relate.
Step 24: You keep pushing forward, but now you are a seasoned IVF veteran, shedding timelines and expectations like old skin.
Step 25: People ask if you want a boy or a girl, and you laugh. “I just want a baby!” you exclaim.
Step 26: At a baby shower, an older woman tells you to “take a vacation and relax.” Oh, the wisdom!
Step 27: Everything said to you becomes comical. What once triggered you now presents an opportunity for education. And the sheer ignorance of some people? Well, that is downright entertaining.
Step 28: You are no quitter. This has become more than just having a baby; it is about conquering adversity, and you refuse to give in.
Step 29: You accept that to increase your chances, you might need to explore new routes to parenthood—options you were initially wary of but no longer are because you are now more educated and battle-hardened.
Step 30: Eventually, you succeed, somehow, in some way. But you are not the same. You’ve sacrificed beyond measure. You’ve reached the finish line, but it came at a cost. Having a baby does not erase infertility; it is a lifelong companion. You are anxious during pregnancy, knowing you have fought harder than most to get here. But you are also ten times as grateful. You savor the little things and view your journey with newfound wisdom. You are entering motherhood in a unique, magical way that only comes from overcoming life’s setbacks. You would not wish this on anyone, but you cannot imagine your life without it because it has made you the resilient, extraordinary person you are today.
And you now have designated progesterone insert underwear (IYKYK!)
Cheers to surviving and trying to thrive through the most chaotic experience of your life.
Cannot wait to do it again for future children when we decide it is time for a sibling *cue the tears and the psychotic laughter.*
Moving Mountains For Motherhood 