Meet Dawn Wickhorst, a remarkable woman whose journey into surrogacy has touched the lives of many. Dawn’s path to becoming a surrogate was inspired by her early motherhood experiences and her deep empathy for those struggling with infertility. With a background in birth photography and a heart open to giving the gift of life, Dawn chose to embark on this profound journey, ultimately finding her way to the Canadian Fertility Consulting (CFC). Her story is not only one of selflessness but also of the profound connections formed through the surrogacy process.
As Dawn prepares for another surrogacy journey with CFC, we asked her a few questions about her experience with us.
What inspired you to embark on the surrogacy journey, and how did you come to choose CFC?
I became a mother at a very young age. I was fortunate enough to have 5 of my own babies through my 20s and be involved in many other birth stories through my career as a birth photographer.
Through one phase of my life, I was an editor for a birth magazine and had the opportunity to interview an author who wrote a book on infertility and loss.
This interview opened my eyes to how many people truly struggle to carry and conceive.
Since I was done having kids and was still young and capable of carrying, I decided it was the one way I could make a solid contribution. Gifting someone with a child was something I could do, and there is absolutely nothing that feels better.
I’m grateful every day that I was able to do this.
Can you share a standout moment or memory from your surrogacy experience?
Meeting my intended parents was the most impactful for me. I had spent nearly 2 years on this journey with them before I was able to meet them in person. Through that time we formed such a loving friendship. Meeting them was beyond emotional and heartwarming.
Once I had the baby and was able to give him back to them, I felt completely at peace. I had done what I set out to do and gained another loving family in my own life through it all.
What advice would you give to others considering surrogacy, based on your journey?
Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself and your needs. Take care of yourself as much as you’re attempting to care for that baby. Without you, this wouldn’t be happening. Your needs are equally as important as the parents and the baby. Sometimes it’s easy to forget that.
CFC made sure I was taken care of emotionally, mentally, and physically. I was introduced to a new support system and taken care of every step of the way.
The thing that makes CFC stand out among other agencies is the way they take care of you through the process, whether it’s gift boxes mailed, booking your travel, personal surrogacy coordinator, etc.
I’m grateful I chose to work with them!
Follow Dawn’s Surrogacy Journey with CFC
As Dawn’s surrogacy journey continues to inspire and uplift, we invite you to follow along with her next chapter. You can stay connected and witness the beauty of surrogacy through her eyes by following @onceupona_dawn. Dawn’s story is a testament to the transformative power of compassion and the profound impact of surrogacy on both surrogate and intended parents alike. As you consider your own path to surrogacy, remember Dawn’s advice: advocate for yourself, prioritize your needs, and seek support from agencies like CFC, who are dedicated to nurturing and guiding you every step of the way.
If you are interested in learning more about becoming a surrogate in Canada, we invite you to take the surrogacy questionnaire and book a free consultation call with one of our specialists.