Supporting Alabama Families: Resources and Virtual Support Groups for Patients

• Stay updated on ways to act by signing up for the RESOLVE Advocacy Network (RAN).
• Share Your Story with the Media.
• Send a Letter to Congress: The Access to Family Building Act is a bill in Congress aimed at safeguarding access to IVF and other family building options.
• Register for RESOLVE’s Federal Advocacy Day, in partnership with ASRM.

Inspire Online Community: Join the “Supporting Alabama Families” discussion in RESOLVE’s Finding a Resolution for Infertility Community on Inspire to find support and connect with others safely and anonymously.

Virtual Support Groups: In response to the urgent need for support, RESOLVE is organizing "pop-up" virtual support groups facilitated by experienced hosts. These groups will offer a safe space for individuals and families in Alabama and beyond to share experiences and find support and encouragement. Please note, the volunteers trained to run RESOLVE support groups are unable to answer specific questions about the situation in Alabama.

Sign up for the first virtual support group, Supporting Alabama Families Support Group on Friday, February 23 at 7:30 PM ET.

Sign up here to be notified of additional support group options as they become available.

Additional virtual support groups available to anyone (regardless of location) in search of assistance. Learn more about each support group in the links below:

• Virginia Beach Infertility Support Group
  Meets virtually the third Tuesday of every month from 6:30-7:30 PM. Meets in person on the third Thursday of every month from 5:45-7:00PM.
• Charlotte General Infertility Support Group
  The group meets in person the first Monday of each month and virtually the third Monday of each month. Contact host for meeting information.
• No More Empty Christmas Trees (NMECT) Infertility Support Group
  Meets the first Thursday of every month from 7:00-8:00 PM ET.
• Managing Infertility, Finding Hope Peer Led Support Group
  Meets the first Thursday of every month from 6:00PM-7:30PM ET.
• Falls Church Primary Infertility Support Group
  Meets on the first Thursday of the month from 7:30PM to 9:00PM.
• Rockville General Infertility Support Group
  Meets the 2nd Tuesday of every month from 7PM to 8PM ET.

Navigating the impact of recent events can be overwhelming., Dr. Andrea Braverman, RESOLVE Board Member shares a few tips to dealing with the uncertainty of recent events. Discover practical strategies to manage stress, cope with uncertainties, and prioritize your mental well-being during this challenging period.

• Acknowledge and validate your feelings. This is another burden that infertility has thrown on you. It’s okay to grieve or be angry about the “others” who tell you what to do with your choices and journey.  It’s okay to feel scared about the uncertainty and implications for your path.  It’s okay to want to fight or to run away from it all.
• Remember your strength and all of those around you who will add to that strength with their support.
• Do listen to your own needs and opinions.

For partners and friends looking to provide meaningful support:

• Listen and support.
• Don’t lecture.
• Do reassure your partner/loved one that they are not alone, and you are there for every step along their fertility journey.

Embryo Transfers and Storage

CryoFuture

• CryoFuture, in partnership with Seattle Sperm Bank, is providing free embryo transportation to any AL patient impacted by the AL Supreme Court ruling.
• CryoFuture will also provide 1st year storage for only $100 to any Alabama IVF patient, along with greatly reduced multi-year storage options.
• To contact CryoFuture to schedule free transportation from Alabama, and/or to schedule storage: support@cryofuture.com or (650)437-0503

ReproTech

• ReproTech is offering free shipping (usually $375) to patients with embryos currently stored in Alabama. Learn more here,

Support:

The Jewish Fertility Foundation in Birmingham, AL provides free support groups open to everyone, regardless of background. They offer grants to eligible individuals to assist with treatment costs and help patients transition to clinics in Atlanta, where they have additional locations and partnerships. Explore more at

https://jewishfertilityfoundation.org/birmingham and https://jewishfertilityfoundation.org/bhmsupport.

Stay updated on the latest developments and community resources related to family building in Alabama. We are committed to supporting the Alabama family building community, and your well-being is our priority.

For any immediate inquiries or to share specific needs you'd like addressed, please contact us at info@resolve.org.

Remember, you are not alone – we are here for you.