Danielle’s Fertility Journey

Danielle Gilpin, 31, has always wanted to be a mother. She met her husband, Jordan, in 2018, and in 2020, the couple decided they wanted to start a family. “I have always loved children and knew I wanted my own,” Danielle said. “I had no doubt Jordan would be the best father. I always said I would love to be half the mother my mom was.” Sadly, Danielle’s mother passed away suddenly in May 2022. This was the moment Danielle and Jordan began serious discussions about their fertility journey and seeking answers. By the time Danielle and Jordan were referred to Tennessee Fertility Institute, they had been actively trying to conceive for three and half years. 

Since Danielle’s OB/GYN and urologist indicated that in vitro fertilization (IVF) could be their quickest path to conception, Danielle and Jordan conducted extensive research on the fertility clinics and treatments available. They ultimately selected TFI based on its success rates, the team’s responsiveness, and their comprehensive knowledge of the treatment options available. Danielle and Jordan had their first appointment with Dr. Jane Ruman on May 31, 2023. 

“From the moment we met our team, we knew we were home,” Danielle recalled. “Dr. Ruman devised a care plan specific to our needs, and we began care.”

After reviewing their medical history and discussing their treatment options with Dr. Ruman, it was confirmed IVF was the best treatment option for Danielle and Jordan. Despite TFI being a two-hour drive from their home in Kentucky, Danielle made the trip once, twice, and sometimes even three times a week!

The thought of undergoing IVF was scary to Danielle at first. “I remember having our consultation and thinking there is absolutely no way this is going to work for me, not after 3 years of trying and countless doctors and tests,” she recalled. “[However], after egg retrieval, I remember feeling an overwhelming amount of gratitude that my body (alongside some really great doctors) was able to get great embryos that would potentially be our future children!”

Danielle and Jordan transferred their first of six embryos on September 11, 2023 and had a healthy baby boy on May 10, 2024. Harrison Wade Gilpin entered the world at 6 pounds, 12.5 ounces, and 21 inches long! Though Danielle’s fertility journey was physically, mentally, and emotionally taxing, and the fear of the unknown was ever present, Harrison’s birth was the ultimate reward. She and Jordan plan to continue building their family with TFI with their remaining embryos in storage. 

“All of the staff, from the nurses and receptionists to the doctors, were incredible,” Danielle said. “I am so thankful for the care I received from Dr. Ruman, who holds such a gift in the care and treatment she provides her patients. Our nurse Shana was an absolute godsend [as well] and the sweetest soul our paths crossed.”

Conclusion

Danielle emphasized her number one piece of advice for others on their fertility journey is to find a physician who truly understands your situation and creates an individualized treatment plan. “Fertility treatment is not one-size-fits-all,” she said. “I am so thankful my team took the time to get to know me, my concerns, and tailor my care around that. It’s so easy to get wrapped up in all the negative things we hear about fertility treatment, but I can honestly say I had the absolute best experience and felt so supported through my entire journey. We can’t wait to continue building our family with Tennessee Fertility Institute!”

If you’re just starting your journey or considering your fertility options, take the first step towards building your family of your dreams by scheduling an appointment with Tennessee Fertility Institute today. Our compassionate and experienced team is here to support you every step of the way!