Our Story: How “Passport to Parenthood” Began

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Two years ago, we found ourselves at a crossroads.

After trying to start a family and running into countless challenges, we realized we needed help that went beyond our local options in the United States. We initially sought out fertility clinics near home—only to be met with astronomical costs, conflicting advice, and a roller coaster of emotions that left us drained.

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Searching Beyond Borders

It was during one particularly discouraging stretch that we stumbled upon the concept of “medical tourism.” We thought, “Could we really travel abroad for affordable, high-quality IVF care?” The more we researched, the more we discovered that many clinics in other countries had world-class success rates and advanced medical technologies—often at a fraction of the cost we were facing stateside.

That’s when we found UNICA, a renowned clinic in Prague, Czech Republic. Ranked among the top fertility centers globally, it promised cutting-edge treatments with transparent pricing. We were skeptical at first—after all, traveling overseas for IVF felt like an enormous leap of faith. But the more we learned about their ethical, patient-centered approach, the more confident we became.

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A Journey of Six Cycles

Our path wasn’t straightforward. We ultimately completed six IVF cycles—one using my wife’s own eggs, and five with a donor egg. At times, we faced heartbreak. We traveled back and forth, sometimes hopeful, sometimes devastated. But along the way, we discovered a European support system and level of honesty that revitalized our hope each time it wavered.

After five emotionally and physically draining failed cycles, UNICA encouraged us to consider something most U.S. clinics don’t talk about: Reproductive Immunology (RI). At their suggestion, we explored immune-related causes of implantation failure, and after researching the expensive options in the U.S., we discovered Dr. Dimitri Papanikolaou at Life Clinic in Athens.

With his help, we uncovered an overactive immune response that may have been interfering with pregnancy all along. He tailored a personalized treatment plan to support Carrie’s immune system while UNICA continued handling all medical procedures. That sixth cycle, with immune support added, finally brought success — our positive pregnancy test after years of heartbreak.

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Becoming Ambassadors for Others

During our most recent trip to Prague, we were approached by UNICA with an exciting offer to become their first U.S. Ambassadors—to share our story, guide other hopeful parents through the international IVF process, and help them experience the same life-changing outcomes we did. We couldn’t say “yes” fast enough. Every time we think about the relief and joy we finally achieved, we want to help others feel that same sense of possibility.

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Introducing Passport to Parenthood

That’s how Passport to Parenthood was born. We realized couples like us were often overwhelmed by steep U.S. treatment costs and a medical system that sometimes felt impersonal. We also recognized that no “standard travel agency” could provide the specialized support that comes from actually living this experience, step by step.

We’ve become experts at coordinating treatment schedules, organizing medical paperwork, planning flights and lodging, and offering emotional support to those on this complex journey. But more than anything, we’re living proof that it can work—and that sometimes, you just need a compassionate guide by your side.

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What We Stand For

• Empathy & Understanding: We know the heartbreak of a failed cycle—and the exhilarating relief of a positive test. You won’t find judgment here, only genuine support from people who’ve been there.
• Transparency & Trust: From financial realities to emotional hurdles, we believe in telling it like it is—no sugarcoating, no hidden fees.
• Global Expertise: Our firsthand connections with clinics like UNICA (and others, if needed) mean we can smooth out the logistical bumps of IVF abroad.
• Community & Advocacy: Beyond the appointments and plane tickets, we want to build a supportive network. Whether it’s through our Discord, subreddit, or personal calls, we’re here to make sure you never feel alone on this path.

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Looking Ahead

We’re also expanding our horizons—our family may try again for a sibling, continuing the journey that turned us into believers in international IVF. We plan to share every new chapter openly, learning alongside you as we celebrate the triumphs and work through the challenges.

This isn’t just a business for us—it’s a personal calling. We found our miracle in Prague (with a little help from Athens), and now we want to help you find yours, wherever your journey takes you. With Passport to Parenthood, you’re not just getting a travel guide; you’re getting experienced advocates who believe in your dream as much as you do.

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Join Our Community

Ready to explore your options abroad? Connect with us to learn more about scheduling, costs, reproductive immunology support, and next steps. Whether you’re new to IVF or looking for a fresh perspective, we’re here to support you with empathy, knowledge, and a genuine commitment to making your parenthood dreams a reality.

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