1 in 8 Americans struggle with infertility. Of those, 75% simply cannot afford the financial burden that comes with infertility treatments. The truth is when it costs this much for fertility treatment, building a family by carrying a child is not a given. In this episode of Stork’d, Julia is joined by Carmela Rea, founder and CEO of EggFund, a company helping more people afford a baby, no matter their path to parenthood. EggFund is America’s largest network of lenders specializing in fertility loans. Carmela knows first hand what the challenges of infertility can bring. She shares her own story of infertility and how the struggles she faced in her journey to build a family left her wanting to help others and create meaning in her life. Stay tuned to the end when Carmela shares her own twist ending. https://www.storkdpodcast.com/season2 In This Episode: [2:20] An introduction to Carmela Rea [3:00] The start of Carmela’s journey with infertility is discussed [7:00] Carmela seeks advice from friends regarding the process of fertility treatments [8:05] Carmela discusses the costs that can be associated with fertility treatments [13:35] The process of surrogacy becomes an option for Carmela and her husband [15:40] Carmela’s husband gives her “permission to fail” [20:27] How the idea for EggFund was born [28:25] How is EggFund different from anything else out there? [33:00] Carmela’s commitment to health and the wonderful surprise of pregnancy [37:20] Looking back at her journey, Carmela shares what she wants listeners to learn about the fertility process [38:40] Carmella shares her thoughts about having a baby later in life [40:00] Carmela’s definition of family Key Takeaways: Having a biological baby is not a given. There can be infertility challenges when they are not expected. Fertility treatments in America are extremely expensive, leading many people to not attempt the processes. EggFund is America’s largest network of lenders specializing in fertility loans, helping many people afford their dream of having a baby. EggFund is patient focused, allowing borrowers freedom and flexibility in their journey in starting a family. Links:  https://www.myeggfund.com/ Disclaimer: The podcasts available on this website have been produced for informational, educational and entertainment purposes only.  The stories and experiences contained within reflect the experiences and opinions of the guest and may contain content found to be triggering by listeners. Listeners should take care to avoid program content which may not be suited to them. The contents of any podcast do not constitute medical or professional advice, do not reflect the opinions of the podcast or its host and do not create any type of professional relationship between the audience and presenters.  No person listening to and/or viewing any podcast from this website should act or refrain from acting on the basis of the content of a podcast without first seeking appropriate professional advice and/or counseling, nor shall the information be used as a substitute for professional advice and/or counseling.  Stork'd Podcast expressly disclaims any and all liability relating to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all contents of this site.