Ashley Howards-Heimbuch, 34, and Alex Heimbuch, 34, faced infertility struggles before seeking medical help. With little chance of conceiving naturally, they embarked on a journey of fundraising and personal loans to afford six cycles of IVF.

Despite accumulating $75,000 in medical debt over three years, the couple remained determined. After four unsuccessful IVF attempts, Ashley’s hopes were dampened further when a benign tumor was discovered on her uterus. Surgery and medication were necessary to address the tumor.

Initially disheartened, Ashley found renewed hope in the discovery of the tumor. She considered it a potential solution to their challenges. Undeterred, the couple embarked on their sixth IVF cycle in October.

The couple’s resilience paid off when they received the joyous news of a successful IVF cycle. To their astonishment, Ashley was also expecting twins. In June 2020, River Heimbuch and Brooks Heimbuch were born, weighing 5 pounds 11 ounces and 5 pounds 2 ounces respectively.

Ashley’s postpartum journey was marked by struggles with depression, a testament to the emotional toll of their fertility journey. Despite the hardships, the couple remained grateful to finally have their long-awaited children.

Ashley’s pregnancy faced additional challenges as she was diagnosed with an uncommon condition called an incarcerated uterus. Surgery was required, and she spent nearly a month in the hospital due to complications. Anxiety and PTSD plagued her throughout the remainder of her pregnancy.

“After years of fundraising and loans, Ashley and Alex finally welcomed twin sons after multiple IVF attempts. Overcoming medical debt, a benign tumor, and complications during pregnancy, they persevered. The birth of River and Brooks brought joy amid postpartum struggles and past hardships.”