In 2018, Erica Lezon and her husband, Jim, began their journey to start a family. Erica had always wanted to be a mother, and so when the time was right, she and Jim tried to conceive naturally. However, as months passed without success, the couple decided to seek guidance.
“I was really nervous and kind of embarrassed. I didn’t know anyone who struggled to get pregnant and was told by family and friends to stop stressing about it so much and to just relax and it would just happen when you don’t think about it.” 
After discussing their concerns, Erica’s OB/GYN suggested using ovulation tests to better understand her cycle. Still, another year passed without a positive pregnancy test.
By 2020, Erica and Jim returned to the OB/GYN for further evaluation. While Jim underwent a semen analysis, Erica had a sonohysterogram (SHG) to check for any abnormalities in her uterus. With no clear answers on why they couldn’t conceive, Erica and Jim proceeded with two unmedicated intrauterine insemination (IUIs), both of which were unsuccessful. It was at this point they were referred to Tennessee Fertility Institute. Erica was nervous and excited knowing she would hopefully be one step closer to becoming a mother.
Erica and Jim’s first consultation at TFI with Dr. Christopher Montville in 2021 marked a turning point in their fertility journey.
“Everyone was very kind and welcoming. Dr. Montville was very informative and explained everything every step of the way. Any fears, doubts or questions I had – he always eased my mind.”
Still, the journey at TFI was not without its twists and turns. Erica and Jim first tried two IUIs with Clomid, which did not result in a pregnancy. On their third attempt, they switched to Letrozole, but the cycle was cancelled due to an over-response and over-production of follicles.
Erica said that the unknown and setbacks were the most challenging part of her fertility journey. “Just not knowing if a cycle will be successful can be very mentally, emotionally and physically draining. It [was] also hard and frustrating when a cycle [got] cancelled or delayed.”
Recognizing the need for a different approach, Erica and Jim moved on to in vitro fertilization (IVF). Their first frozen embryo transfer resulted in a chemical pregnancy – a bittersweet glimpse of hope that quickly faded.
Finally, in 2022, Erica’s second frozen embryo transfer was successful. Her joy was indescribable when her son, Austin, was born, a miracle after years of waiting and heartache.
“I was in shock and didn’t believe it. I didn’t really have any pregnancy symptoms and already thought something was wrong. Dr. Montville reassured me and said he knew how you are always waiting for that other shoe to drop but the proof [was] in the pudding. [I was] pregnant!”
Now, in 2024, Erica and Jim are hopeful once again as they consult with Dr. Montville for baby number two. After a hysteroscopy to ensure everything was in order, they are currently in the middle of another FET cycle, filled with anticipation and feeling more knowledgeable about the overall process.
Though Erica’s journey has been long, challenging, and it is not yet over, it has been marked by resilience and unwavering hope. To Erica, the most rewarding aspect of her fertility journey has been “overcoming my fears and never giving up despite all the challenges and setbacks. I was someone who was deathly afraid of needles, but now I can give myself injections and have blood taken without batting an eye.”
She is looking forward to the possibility of expanding her family and sharing her story with others who may find comfort and strength in knowing they are not alone.