Hey there, lovely listeners! Did you know I have a YouTube channel? Yes, I do! You can watch the video version of this podcast, including some fun outtakes, on my YouTube channel at Lana Manikowski on YouTube.

This week, I want to share something that hit me deeply: the parallels between the journey of Olympic athletes and women who undergo fertility treatments. Watching a recent track and field event, I couldn't help but notice how much their experiences resemble ours. Let's dive into it.

The Journey of Preparation

Both Olympic athletes and women undergoing fertility treatments spend years preparing for a single dream. Athletes dedicate themselves to grueling training regimens, strict diets, and countless sacrifices. Similarly, you might have faced numerous medical procedures, hormonal treatments, and financial burdens, all with the hope of becoming a mom.

Facing Disappointment

Despite all the preparation, not all athletes win a medal. Similarly, many women complete their fertility journey without becoming a mom. The emotional toll, the physical exhaustion, and the financial strain can be overwhelming. But both journeys are marked by an incredible amount of perseverance and strength.

The Role of Support Systems

Athletes rely on coaches, teammates, and family for support. For those of us going through fertility treatments, the support system might include partners, doctors, nurses, or online communities. Sadly, not everyone has access to a robust support system, making the journey even more challenging.

Psychological Strength

The mental resilience required to face setbacks, whether it's an athlete missing a medal or a woman navigating failed fertility treatments, is immense. The emotional highs and lows, the waiting, the uncertainty—it all takes a toll. But remember, it's okay to grieve, to feel lost, and to seek support.

Moving Forward

Just as Olympic athletes find new paths after their sports careers, women who conclude their fertility journey without becoming moms can find new meanings and joys in life. It's not about giving up; it's about finding a different path that brings fulfillment and happiness.

Join Thrive After Infertility

If you're ready to move forward and thrive, my program "Thrive After Infertility" might be just what you need. The next class starts on October 1st. Let's work together to ensure you don't carry the burden of not becoming a mom forever. You can find more details on my website.

Free Resource

Before you go, I want to share a fantastic resource I created: "The Top 27 Things People Say When You're Childless...and How to Respond." You can download it for free on my website. It's a great tool to help you navigate those sometimes uncomfortable conversations.

Conclusion

Thank you for joining me this week. Remember, it's never too late to discover your meaning and find joy in your life. I'll be checking in from Poland next week. Until then, I love you and I'm here for you.