“Today’s hearing affirmed what we know to be true – many of our nation’s leaders do not have the medical expertise necessary to push forward legislation that would stand between a patient and their doctor. Moreover, some legislators don’t even understand the urgency of this moment for those living with infertility. Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) went as far as to claim that ‘IVF is fully protected in law’, which is categorically false. There are no existing legal protections for IVF.

“Despite what we heard today, it is impossible to claim to support IVF while simultaneously pushing for regulations that would significantly reduce the standard of care patients need to build families through this life-changing healthcare. The Life at Conception Act – which would establish human life as beginning at the moment of fertilization and replicate the devastating outcomes we saw in Alabama – currently has 125 Republican sponsors. Make no mistake: there is nothing pro-family about this bill or actions to curtail reproductive healthcare.

“Most Americans – 85 percent of adults – are in support of increasing access to fertility treatments. But access to IVF will only decrease if misguided regulations supersede medical best practices – this safe and essential care will become more expensive and more dangerous for those already carrying the financial, physical and emotional weight of infertility.

“Unfortunately, what happened in Alabama was not a fluke. Since the Dobbs decision, we have tracked and fought against state bills that try to define when life begins, and in the process create definitions that would undercut access to the medical interventions hopeful parents need to build their families.

“We will remain gravely concerned about the future of IVF throughout the country until federal protections are in place. We must call on our congressional leaders to pass the Access to Family Building Act as soon as possible. But until this bill becomes law, it is incumbent on state leaders to make choices for their constituents that make it easier — not harder — for them to build their families.”

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About RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association
Established in 1974, RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association is a non-profit organization with the only established nationwide network mandated to promote reproductive health and to ensure equal access to all family building options for anyone experiencing infertility or challenges in building their family. RESOLVE addresses this public health issue by providing community to all who need it, connecting them with others who can help, empowering them to find resolution and giving voice to their demands for access to all family building options. For more information, visit www.RESOLVE.org.

About Fight for Families
Fight for Families, a campaign led by RESOLVE, was launched in light of the Dobbs decision to protect IVF and other reproductive healthcare needed by people trying to get pregnant and grow their family. RESOLVE, the nation’s leading organization dedicated to family building, is concerned by legislation that threatens to limit the safe and effective medical options for people trying to conceive and achieve a healthy pregnancy. Fight for Families will help raise the voices of hopeful parents to their elected leaders and protect their rights to build a family. To join the Fight for Families campaign and help defend IVF and family building, please visit https://fightforfamilies.resolve.org/ for more information and to sign up for updates and how to take action.

In this Q&A, Cindy shares why these DIY Walk of Hope fundraisers are so important, while offering tips for organizing successful events and exploring the evolving landscape of peer-to-peer fundraising. Nothing says a grassroots movement quite like a “boots on the ground” approach – which is what Cindy does best to support individuals and families affected by infertility.

Can you tell us about the concept of DIY Walk of Hope fundraisers and their significance within the infertility community?

First and foremost, the main goals of the DIY Walks of Hope are to raise awareness and foster a sense of community – but these Walks didn’t use to be DIY-driven. RESOLVE used to operate a staff-driven Walk of Hope program. However, with numerous communities expressing interest in hosting walks, RESOLVE didn’t have the resources to do more than about 10 per year. As a result, DIY walks emerged, which were, according to Cindy, “propelled by passionate individuals within the family building community.”

“Through these inaugural events, volunteers connect with like-minded individuals, experiencing a profound sense of achievement and channeling their passion into peer-to-peer fundraising efforts for RESOLVE’s mission. Many participants join these Walks seeking community, and they often become a beloved tradition in local communities, eagerly anticipated and embraced year after year.”

What are some examples of successful DIY Walk of Hope fundraisers that you have encountered?

Cindy emphasized that she always tries to make it a point that DIY walks come in a wide range of sizes – think something small like an intimate gathering of friends and family at a picnic pavilion all the way up to something much larger, like an event featuring hundreds of participants, complete with stages, DJs, sponsors, banners, and more. Cindy advises all DIY Walk volunteers to set clear goals for their events, whether that includes fostering community engagement or raising funds.

“Ultimately, DIY Walks of Hope serve as peer-to-peer fundraisers that directly support RESOLVE’s mission and programs.”

What tips or strategies would you offer to individuals or groups planning to organize their own DIY Walk of Hope fundraiser?

It can feel overwhelming to try and plan any kind of event, even a DIY Walk of Hope fundraiser, which we’ve scaled to make simple to put together for even the least-experienced person or organization. What Cindy recommends that individuals do first is assemble a team of volunteers, friends, and family. It’s best to delegate tasks and form a committee to share the workload.

Cindy emphasized, “Asking for help is crucial; no one with infertility should walk alone, and that includes our volunteer leaders.” At RESOLVE, we offer toolkits and a supportive community of experienced walk planners. ALWAYS ASK FOR HELP!

How can supporters maximize their fundraising efforts and engage their community effectively?

According to Cindy, successful fundraising begins with individuals sharing their personal stories with those who care about them. She explained, “utilizing traditional methods like sending a link to a personalized fundraising page via email to friends and family, accompanied by a heartfelt explanation of why RESOLVE’s mission is meaningful, can yield positive results.”

She went on to explain that text messaging can also be extremely useful. Specifically, Cindy went into further detail, stating, “Leveraging texting can also be highly effective. While social media is valuable for raising awareness, it tends to be less personal and targeted compared to direct communication methods.”

Are there any upcoming initiatives or developments related to DIY Walk of Hope fundraisers that our audience should be aware of?

Cindy explained that, while RESOLVE currently does not have any specific initiatives, “I am seeing a clear shift in who is approaching RESOLVE to start new DIY Walks.” In essence, new inquiries are now acutely focused on fundraising, and less of a focus is on event planning.

“There is a need to make sure that RESOLVE has the resources to keep IVF legal and available, while continuing to provide the programs and services that we are known and valued for. They want to help in a bigger way than what they personally can donate.”

Any last thoughts you would like to share?

Before closing, Cindy had a few final words to share:

“I’m continually impressed by the knowledge and savvy within our community. Our Walk chairs excel at crafting engaging content and promotions on social media, not only spotlighting RESOLVE’s programs but also extending awareness to initiatives like Coverage at Work, Federal Advocacy Day, and Support Groups, both before and during their events. Many of them demonstrate exceptional public speaking skills and serve as outstanding ambassadors for our cause. The level of dedication exhibited by our volunteers, many of whom are actively involved in multiple RESOLVE programs, is truly remarkable.”

We greatly appreciate Cindy for sharing her insights and guidance on DIY Walk of Hope fundraisers! These grassroots efforts play a crucial role in supporting individuals and families affected by infertility while advancing RESOLVE’s mission.

Learn more about how you can start A RESOLVE Walk or fundraiser in your area.

Barbara Collura, president and CEO of RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association and leader of the organization’s Fight For Families Campaign, issued the following statement in response:

“RESOLVE is relieved that Alabama clinics can reopen their IVF programs and work with patients to help them fulfill their dreams of becoming parents. While we are grateful for the actions of Alabama legislators, this legislation does not address the underlying issue of the status of embryos as part of the IVF process – threatening the long-term standard of care for IVF patients. There is more work to be done.

“Patients and providers in Alabama, and across the country, want and deserve the protected right to build families. Recent polls found that 81% of Alabama GOP primary voters support the state legislature in passing a new law to protect IVF services and clinics in the state, while 85% of American voters believe in increasing access to fertility treatments. I will be at the State of the Union address Thursday night, in support of national legislation to protect fertility treatments everywhere, for everyone, so that hopeful parents don’t have to worry that their state will be next.

“We are inspired by the thousands of advocates in Alabama that chose to speak up and take action, and to those brave advocates who shared their stories with the media and with their legislators. RESOLVE looks to Fight for Alabama Families to continue its advocacy to improve the legislation, and asks advocates to remain vigilant and continue to share their stories.”

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About RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association

Established in 1974, RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association is a non-profit organization with the only established nationwide network mandated to promote reproductive health and to ensure equal access to all family building options for anyone experiencing infertility or challenges in building their family. RESOLVE addresses this public health issue by providing community to all who need it, connecting them with others who can help, empowering them to find resolution and giving voice to their demands for access to all family building options. For more information, visit www.RESOLVE.org.

About Fight for Families

Fight for Families, a campaign led by RESOLVE, was launched in light of the Dobbs decision to protect IVF and other reproductive healthcare needed by people trying to get pregnant and grow their family. RESOLVE, the nation’s leading organization dedicated to family building, is concerned by legislation that threatens to limit the safe and effective medical options for people trying to conceive and achieve a healthy pregnancy. Fight for Families will help raise the voices of hopeful parents to their elected leaders and protect their rights to build a family. To join the Fight for Families campaign and help defend IVF and family building, please visit https://fightforfamilies.resolve.org/ for more information and to sign up for updates and how to take action.

Here’s what to know about the legislation, which the Legislature approved overwhelmingly on Wednesday.

The Alabama legislature on Wednesday approved legislation intended to make it possible for fertility clinics in the state to reopen without the specter of crippling lawsuits.

But the measure, hastily written, does not address the legal question that led to clinic closings and set off a stormy, politically fraught national debate: Whether embryos that have been frozen and stored for possible future implantation have the legal status of human beings.

The Alabama Supreme Court made such a finding last month, in the context of a claim against a Mobile clinic brought by three couples whose frozen embryos were inadvertently destroyed. The court ruled that under Alabama law, those embryos should be regarded as people, and that the couples were entitled to punitive damages for the wrongful death of a child.

Legal experts said the bill, which Governor Kay Ivey quickly signed into law, is the first in the country to create a legal moat around embryos, blocking lawsuits or prosecutions if they are damaged or destroyed.

Continue reading here.

“It’s an honor to represent RESOLVE and the entire family building community. Ever since the Alabama ruling which forced a suspension of IVF care, thousands of people have been speaking out all over the country to preserve its legality and accessibility. This is a moment where all branches of government and both political parties are talking about our issues. It’s important that we stand together and show our strength as a community,” said Collura.

RESOLVE believes the time is now to share the message that IVF is under attack and there are ways that Congress can help keep IVF legal and available in the US. We ask all who care about keeping IVF legal and available to send a letter to Congress and ask them to support the Access to Family Building Act and protect IVF in the US.

Democrats are working to make abortion and reproductive health care a central issue in the 2024 election.

A handful of Democrats plan to bring fertility doctors and patients to the State of the Union Thursday night, as part of an attempt to highlight the wide-ranging effects of the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade and remind voters about Democrats’ efforts to protect access to abortion and in vitro fertilization.

The invitations come as Democrats have seized on the recent Alabama Supreme Court ruling that declared embryos are children, leading some IVF clinics in the state to pause their operations. President Joe Biden, who is expected to speak about reproductive rights Thursday night, and congressional Democrats have accused Republicans of jeopardizing IVF treatments, noting that overturning Roe had consequences not only for abortion rights, but fertility care, emergency medicine and contraception, too.

Sen. Tim Kaine (D-Va.) said Tuesday that he would bring Elizabeth Carr, the first person in the United States born via in vitro fertilization, in Norfolk, Virginia in 1981, as his guest. Sen. Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) and Rep. Lori Trahan (D-Mass.) have invited Drs. Amanda Adeleye and Pietro Bortoletto, respectively. Both are reproductive endocrinologists who specialize in fertility care.

Continue reading here.

FEB. 28, 2024 – MONTGOMERY, AL – Hundreds of people who have undergone, are in the midst of, or need IVF, fertility doctors and advocates for family-building gathered at the Alabama State House today as part of ongoing efforts to save access to in-vitro fertilization (IVF) in Alabama following the recent State Supreme Court ruling conferring personhood status on embryos. Those gathered at the State House today urged Alabama lawmakers to quickly enact legislation to protect access to IVF and make it possible for fertility clinics to resume care immediately to help would-be parents build their families.

Since the February 16 ruling, fertility clinics across the state have announced that they have suspended IVF treatment, leaving thousands of distraught families with little clarity on how they will continue their family-building journeys. At least one embryo-shipping company has stopped their services of transferring embryos out of Alabama. This ruling is crushing for the one in six people impacted by infertility, who may need IVF to build their families, and threatens the existence of fertility care within the state.

“This issue is personal to me. As a mother-to-be because of IVF currently expecting my second baby, I can’t imagine having to leave the state of Alabama to receive IVF care,” said Corinn O’Brien, of the Fight for Alabama Families Coalition. “IVF has been a miracle in my life, and I am devastated for the families across Alabama whose fertility treatments are on hold. We are here today to encourage the Alabama legislature to take quick and urgent action for Alabama families that meaningfully protects both IVF patients and clinics.”

“The women and families of Alabama deserve full access to advanced fertility treatments,” said Barbara Collura, President of RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association, which has been working to protect access to IVF across the country and is part of the Fight for Alabama Families Coalition. “Infertility is devastating for people who just want a child — they deserve all healthcare options, including IVF, to make their dream a reality. We call on the Alabama legislature to enact a swift and meaningful solution.”

“As an infertility physician I am used to difficult conversations, but these last two weeks have been absolutely heartbreaking,” said Dr. Mamie McLean, of Alabama Fertility Specialists in Homewood, Alabama. “I have called dozens of patients in the middle of fertility treatments, including women who were scheduled for embryo transfers, and told them that we cannot move forward with treatment at this juncture. I have cried with patients who want nothing more than a baby, and, as their physician, I am unable to provide the fertility treatments that they desperately need. We are calling on the legislature to allow us to provide support for the full scope of fertility care to our citizens within our beautiful state.”

“My practice has served the women and families of Alabama for over 20 years and has helped bring thousands of babies into the world,” said Dr. Beth Malizia, a specialist in infertility and reproductive surgery. “It is our honor to help our patients become parents, and it has been terrible to have our most successful treatment taken from us. We are calling on the Alabama legislature to provide full access to IVF care.”

Access to IVF has broad support across the country. According to a recent nationwide survey conducted by Kellyanne Conway, 85 percent of all respondents, including 86 percent of women, support increasing access to fertility-related care and services. Moreover, 86 percent of all respondents favor increasing access to IVF.

For more information on how to get involved, please visit www.RESOLVE.org.

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About RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association
Established in 1974, RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association is a non-profit organization with the only established nationwide network mandated to promote reproductive health and to ensure equal access to all family building options for anyone experiencing infertility or challenges in building their family. RESOLVE addresses this public health issue by providing community to all who need it, connecting them with others who can help, empowering them to find resolution and giving voice to their demands for access to all family building options.

About Fight for Families
Fight for Families, a campaign led by RESOLVE, was launched to safeguard IVF and other reproductive healthcare needed by people trying to get pregnant and grow their family. RESOLVE, the nation’s leading organization dedicated to family building, is concerned by legislation that threatens to limit the safe and effective medical options for people trying to conceive and achieve a healthy pregnancy. Fight for Families will help raise the voices of hopeful parents to their elected leaders and protect their rights to build a family. To join the Fight for Families campaign and help defend IVF and family building, please visit for more information and to sign up for updates and how to take action.

FEB. 28, 2024 – MONTGOMERY, AL – Hundreds of people who have undergone, are in the midst of, or need IVF, fertility doctors and advocates for family-building gathered at the Alabama State House today as part of ongoing efforts to save access to in-vitro fertilization (IVF) in Alabama following the recent State Supreme Court ruling conferring personhood status on embryos.

Since the February 16 ruling, most fertility clinics across the state have suspended IVF, leaving thousands of distraught patients and families. At least one embryo-shipping company has stopped transferring embryos out of Alabama. This ruling is crushing for the one in six people impacted by infertility, who may need IVF to build their families, and threatens the existence of fertility care within the state.

“Alabama’s leaders have the opportunity to restore the dreams of would-be parents,” said Barbara Collura, President of RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association. “Send a message to families that you will stand by them. We call on the Alabama legislature to enact a swift and meaningful solution.“

“This issue is personal to me. As a mother-to-be because of IVF currently expecting my second baby, I can’t imagine having to leave the state of Alabama to receive IVF care,” said Corinn O’Brien, of the Fight for Alabama Families Coalition.

“As an infertility physician I am used to difficult conversations, but these last two weeks have been absolutely heartbreaking,” said Dr. Mamie McLean, of Alabama Fertility Specialists.

“It is our honor to help our patients become parents, and it has been terrible to have our most successful treatment taken from us,” said Dr. Beth Malizia, a specialist in infertility and reproductive surgery.

Access to IVF has broad support across the country. According to a recent nationwide survey, 85 percent of all respondents, including 86 percent of women, support increasing access to fertility-related care and services. Moreover, 86 percent of all respondents favor increasing access to IVF.

“RESOLVE will continue to be on the front lines protecting access to IVF and ensuring people in Alabama and across the country have family-building options,” added Collura.

For more information, please visit www.RESOLVE.org and https://fightforfamilies.resolve.org/

“Not all embryos created mean live births:” It’s crucial to emphasize that the creation of embryos during the IVF process does not guarantee a successful pregnancy. Many factors influence the outcome, and not all embryos will result in a live birth.

“No one cares about my embryos more than me:” As individuals undergoing fertility treatments, we understand the emotional and personal investment in our embryos. It’s essential to convey that we are the ones most invested in our reproductive decisions and outcomes.

“Creating multiple embryos during the IVF process gives someone the best chance at pregnancy:” Explaining the rationale behind creating multiple embryos during IVF can help address misconceptions. It’s about increasing the chances of success and ensuring viable options for future family building.

“I want to make my healthcare decisions with my doctor only:” Emphasize the importance of patient-provider collaboration in making informed healthcare decisions. Your fertility journey is unique, and you deserve the support and guidance of a trusted healthcare team.

“Share content from credible media resources:” When discussing the Alabama ruling and its impact, it’s essential to share information from credible and reputable media sources. Accurate information helps dispel myths and misinformation surrounding fertility treatments and reproductive rights.

“There’s a way to protect IVF nationwide:” The Access to Family Building Act is a bill in Congress introduced to protect access to IVF and ensure it remains legal and available everywhere in the US. Encourage community members to advocate for this bill by sending a letter to Congress here and registering for RESOLVE’s Virtual Federal Advocacy Day, in partnership with ASRM, on May 14, 2024.

By consistently emphasizing these key points, we can ensure that our voices are heard, and that accurate information is shared within our community and beyond.

Join the conversation by using these social media graphics.

Find Support Alabama Families resources and ways to act here.

Barbara Collura, President and CEO of RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association and leader of the organization’s Fight For Families Campaign, issued the following statement in response:

“Since the Court’s ruling, doctors have been forced to deliver devastating news to their patients, who dream of becoming parents and whose plans are on hold indefinitely, all because of the court’s disregard for science. And now, this slight window of hope for Alabamans currently undergoing IVF to continue their family-building treatment in other states just slammed shut. Thousands of Alabamans trying to build their families are being held hostage by this destructive ruling.

“IVF must be restored in the state immediately, without fear of criminal prosecution. We at RESOLVE will do all we can to protect the hopes and dreams of Alabamans, and safeguard access to family-building nationwide.”

About RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association
Established in 1974, RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association is a non-profit organization with the only established nationwide network mandated to promote reproductive health and to ensure equal access to all family building options for anyone experiencing infertility or challenges in building their family. RESOLVE addresses this public health issue by providing community to all who need it, connecting them with others who can help, empowering them to find resolution and giving voice to their demands for access to all family building options. For more information, visit www.RESOLVE.org.

About Fight for Families
Fight for Families, a campaign led by RESOLVE, was launched in light of the Dobbs decision to protect IVF and other reproductive healthcare needed by people trying to get pregnant and grow their family. RESOLVE, the nation’s leading organization dedicated to family building, is concerned by legislation that threatens to limit the safe and effective medical options for people trying to conceive and achieve a healthy pregnancy. Fight for Families will help raise the voices of hopeful parents to their elected leaders and protect their rights to build a family. To join the Fight for Families campaign and help defend IVF and family building, please visit https://fightforfamilies.resolve.org/ for more information and to sign up for updates and how to take action.