What led you to become a Surrogate? 

The idea has just always been there. It may have possibly started when Phoebe carried triplets for her brother on the show Friends, but it was so long ago, I can’t say for sure. I informed my husband while we were dating it was something I would try to do one day. I don’t think he really thought much of it then, but the day I walked in and announced I found an agency and was applying his face was priceless.

Who was your most significant support person/s throughout your journey?

My biggest support would definitely be my husband. He was leery of how this would impact us emotionally and physically, but has been there every step of the way for me in any way I needed. He knew how big of a dream this was for me and wanted to do everything he could to make it possible. Now being halfway there and getting to know our Intended Fathers it has opened his heart up to this journey exponentially. He constantly tells me how proud he is of me and it means the world to me to have that kind of support.

What made you decide to choose your Intended Parents?

I went in to this journey wanting to be completely open to anyone. Looking through the profiles I tried to focus mostly on their story and descriptions of each other. There was just something that pulled me towards my Intended Fathers. The way they spoke of each other somewhat reminded me of my husband and I. I’d like to say there was this profound reason but really it was just a gut feeling and it was right. I knew after our first skype meeting they were the couple I was meant to do this for. I absolutely love them.

What are some of the highlights of your journey?

There are a few so far. Transfer Day was amazing, watching that little embryo being placed was more emotional than I expected. Getting that first faint line on a pregnancy test, hearing the heartbeat for the first time and being the one who got to share all of those moments with the Intended Fathers. I can imagine seeing my Intended Fathers with their little miracle will take that #1 spot once we get there.

Do you have advice for women who are interested in becoming a gestational surrogate?

I think the most common advice is research. Even though I had thought of being a surrogate for so long I really didn’t do the research I should have, but I was extremely lucky to find FSC and their amazing amount of support and knowledge. Secondly, do not rush anything. Make sure you are comfortable with the details.

I can not say enough good things about this amazing agency. From the moment I submitted an application I have felt completely supported and valued. They have been with me every step of this process from helping to get paperwork in order, to weekly check-ins, to special little reminders of how incredible this journey is. I was truly blessed to have found them!

Your Story Matters

Staci Swiderski, CEO and owner of Family Source Consultants has been involved in the field of reproductive medicine since 2002. Staci has vigorously grown the comprehensive egg donation and gestational surrogacy agency to become a worldwide leader in the third-party reproduction field. Staci is a former intended parent herself. She and her husband welcomed their son via gestational surrogacy in 2005. Additionally, Staci had the experience of assisting an infertile couple (AKA Recipient Parents) build their family through her efforts as an egg donor, with her donation resulting in the births of their son and daughter.