Once Upon a Time During the Pandemic

During the Pandemic RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association restricted their support group leaders from holding in person general infertility support groups. Instead I had to offer support virtually though Zoom. The pandemic also created a lot of troubles and increased anxiety for my group members. Many of them were in the midst of an IVF or IUI cycle, which had to be cancelled abruptly due to Coronavirus. Infertility is isolating and can even be devastating, but during a pandemic it is even more so. Soon RESOLVE realized that people weren’t getting the support they desperately needed, so they recruited even more Peer Lead Support Group Leaders to offer national virtual support groups too. I stepped up to the plate to lead monthly virtual support sessions for people across our nation too.

Within the first couple of months of the pandemic, I learned that several of my support group members had become pregnant. I have always wanted to offer a Pregnancy And Parenting After Infertility Support Group because I feel that the need is great for those who don’t fit in with their fertile friend, and yet they don’t fit into the general infertility support group either.

Having supported people on their family building journey, it feels so good to see them to the other side of infertility. I wanted to do something extra special for them in honor or their resoluiton. But what?

During the pandemic and while sheltering in place, I also found myself needing a new creative outlet. I have always had a creative flare and have an interest in painting. So, I taught myself how to create paintings using soft pastels by watching YouTube videos. I like the soft pastel medium because it is so rich, doesn’t need to be mixed, doesn’t dry out and can be layered beautifully. Soon I learned to create an under painting using watercolors, acrylics, acrylic inks, inktense sticks with alcohol washes etc. Then I’d add the soft pastels on top of the under paintings, which in turn, created a warmth and depth to my work.

I collaborate with each new mother or mother-to-be and create a design that will be the perfect accent for her Miracle Baby’s nursery. I love creating these paintings so much because they serve as a reminder of the support and bond we have fostered through our RESOLVE support group. So far during the pandemic I have created over 20 nursery paintings. Please take a look at the gallery in the BOOKS and GIFTS section of my website to view a sampling of my artwork. If you or someone you know would like me to create a painting just for you, please know that it’d be an honor and a privilege to do so.

In-Fertility & Friendship,

Sue