A Surrogate’s Journey: Sacrifices and Rewards

Sherlyn Santana De Leon shared her journey as a surrogate, reflecting on the profound emotional, physical, and practical challenges she faced.

Considering Surrogacy

Initially grappling with financial difficulties during her first marriage, Sherlyn thought about becoming a surrogate. Although she considered egg donation, she didn’t meet the requirements. Yet, the desire to help another family lingered.

Support and Decision

In 2015, Sherlyn discussed her interest in surrogacy with her current husband, Benjamin. Though he was hesitant, a personal conversation with a former surrogate helped him understand its depth. After thorough consideration, she decided to apply.

First Surrogacy Experience

Sherlyn’s first surrogacy was deeply significant. The intended parents already had one child through surrogacy and requested her help in carrying another. Their previous surrogate had lost two pregnancies and they had limited embryos left. After delivering their first child safely, she agreed to carry the last embryo, named Emily.

Unexpected Challenges

Emily was born during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. With the intended parents unable to travel from China, Sherlyn and her husband were asked to care for Emily temporarily. Having experienced foster care herself, Sherlyn refused the notion of Emily being placed in a children’s home.

Caring for Emily

While caring for Emily, Sherlyn and her family formed a deep bond with her. They included her in daily routines and celebrated milestones together. Sherlyn breastfed Emily, fostering a unique connection.

Handling Transition

Throughout those eight months, constant communication with Emily’s parents was maintained. When her father finally arrived, saying goodbye proved emotional for Sherlyn’s family.

Life After Surrogacy

After Emily’s departure, Sherlyn soon became pregnant with her youngest son. Though the transition felt bittersweet, her new pregnancy helped her heal.

Reflecting on Surrogacy

Sherlyn emphasizes the complexity and emotional depth of surrogacy. It’s essential to prioritize the baby’s and parents’ well-being. The journey is more than financial—it profoundly impacts the surrogate and the recipient family. Surrogacy isn’t about staying in the child’s life; it’s about granting a family the chance to experience parenthood.

On her social media, Sherlyn, now a nurse and a mother, shares her experiences, hoping to convey the true essence of surrogacy—giving a family something they couldn’t achieve alone.