In 2013, they embarked on a course of genetic testing to determine if their condition could be passed on to any potential future children. Overjoyed to receive the news that this wouldn’t be a concern for them the day before their wedding, the next step wasn’t as simple as they hoped.  

Years in the making

After two years trying to conceive with no success, they sought help with their fertility and discovered that they would be eligible for NHS-funded IVF treatment. In 2017, they happily welcomed their son, Rowan. 

Three years later, Rowan asked when he would become an older brother, and Faye and Stevie decided to try and expand their family again. Exploring private fertility treatment, Faye was advised that her best chance of conceiving would be to use an egg donor. Blood tests had indicated low anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels, usually detected when a woman is approaching menopause. 

Feeling uncertain about their options, they pushed for a second opinion, and found Lister Fertility Clinic and Dr Tim Bracewell-Milnes. From the first consultation, they felt optimistic and completely seen and heard - not as patients with disabilities, but as potential second-time parents-to-be. Confirming this further with Faye being able to bring her own hoist and the clinic adapting to their needs, the couple decided to go ahead with treatment without using a donor. 

In May 2024, they found out the wonderful news that Faye was pregnant again and due around Christmas.  

Turning personal challenges into personal needs

As a result of her disability, internal scans were not able to be carried out throughout Faye’s pregnancy. For continuity of care, the team at Lister Fertility Clinic ensured she was always seen by the same sonographer for external ultrasounds, creating a sense of familiarity and comfort. Manoeuvring on and off the bed for examinations was fairly difficult for Faye due to her limited mobility, so flexibility was built into the couple’s appointments, with two timeslots always been booked instead of just one, accommodating the extra time the couple needed so the process never felt rushed.

“They really did go above and beyond. They saw us as individuals, not just as people with disabilities and made allowances accordingly” Faye shared.

Their baby daughter, Lanesra, arrived safely on 18th December 2024. The family were overjoyed with their new arrival – and Rowan has been fully embracing his new role as a big brother. 

Keeping the conversation going

Faye and Stevie’s journey is testament to the fact that, with the right support, fertility treatment can be accessible to all. “If you have love to give, genetics don’t matter,” Faye shared. “Becoming parents twice through fertility treatment…simply the two best decisions we have ever made.”

And the couple want others in similar situations to know they are not alone. “Don’t be shy. Ask all the questions. It might feel overwhelming, but when you find the right clinic, everything falls into place”.  

Lister Fertility Clinic prides itself on offering fertility treatment to whoever wants to explore it. Inclusivity is key – and whatever unique health needs the individual patient(s) present(s) with should not preclude them from looking at their fertility options. Thankfully, this option made all the difference for Faye and Stevie. 

And for those hesitant about starting treatment, they emphasise the importance of acting early. “If you’re thinking about egg retrieval, don’t wait - time is precious. Fertility shouldn’t be a taboo subject – you just never know who else might be struggling and who may want to talk.”

When it comes to the future, “We’re not even sure this is our last addition - we’ll see where life takes us!”

Lister Fertility Clinic is proud to support families of all backgrounds and abilities. For further information on these services, please follow this link.