Trusting the Journey: Melissa’s Path to Parenthood with TFI
A Quiet Hope Turns Into a Bold Step
Tennessee Fertility Institute (TFI) patient Melissa Cooper and her husband Steven had been married for eight years, never actively trying to conceive but also not preventing it. “I always had a longing desire to be a mother,” Melissa shares, “but kept expecting it would happen in God’s timing and tried not to focus too much on it.”
That quiet hope turned into heartbreak when Melissa’s first pregnancy ended in miscarriage. “It was clear my pregnancy wasn’t progressing and I would miscarry,” she recalls. That moment marked the beginning of a more intentional journey toward parenthood in June 2023.
Seeking Support and Finding a Plan
After an additional six months of trying to conceive without success, Melissa’s doctor recommended seeing a fertility specialist. That led her to Tennessee Fertility Institute, where she underwent extensive testing. Though Melissa had previously been diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) when she was younger, her care team at TFI recognized the primary challenge was ovarian reserve, and consequently recommended in vitro fertilization (IVF).
At first, Melissa and Steven were not on the same page about next steps. “It took lots of tears, prayers, and transparency for us to finally agree and move forward,” Melissa remembers. Fear of the unknown and wondering if they simply weren’t meant to become parents were enormous hurdles, but ultimately they decided to proceed with IVF.
Melissa underwent two egg retrieval cycles and six of her embryos were genetically tested. Two turned out to be euploid embryos, and her embryo transfer took place a few days before Christmas 2024.
The two week wait was one of the hardest periods for Melissa emotionally. “I Googled every symptom and tried not to get my hopes up, but the anticipation was killing me. When the nurse finally called to confirm we were pregnant, I had never felt so relieved, excited and scared all at once. It was like I was dreaming.” Melissa and Steven’s daughter, Ruby Grace Cooper, was born on September 5, 2025!
Navigating the Unknowns
Like many fertility journeys, Melissa’s path wasn’t without challenges. “The most challenging part was just the unknown,” she admits. “When we began this journey, we were determined that we would only go through two rounds of egg retrievals and the subsequent embryo transfers. If those were not successful, we would just take that as God closing the door on that option.”
However, through her faith, Melissa still felt confident in her journey. “God gave us peace and affirming "nudges" every step of the way, and every setback along the way led us to the perfect timing.”
Her experience at TFI was also marked by kindness, professionalism, and unwavering support. “Each doctor was kind and compassionate, while also setting realistic expectations,” she says. “I felt confident with each of them, along with the nurse practitioners, embryologists, anesthesiologists, office staff, and more. Each person made me feel valued and heard.”
Empowerment Through Progress
One of the most empowering moments came during her first ultrasound after the positive pregnancy test. “Our doctor said everything looked ‘textbook perfect,’” Melissa recalls. “Realizing that my body had responded to treatment was incredibly rewarding. Of course, delivering our sweet girl and now having her home with us is the cherry on top!”
Words of Wisdom for Others
Melissa wishes she had known just how many couples go through similar experiences. “I’ve found an entire community of people since beginning our journey,” she says. “The way we all relate to each other is unlike any other relationship I’ve ever had.”
Her advice to others starting their journey with TFI? “Lean on the care team with any questions or concerns, but be careful with Googling or looking into Facebook groups or forums at first. You’ll read all kinds of experiences—some positive and some devastating. You’ll get in your head and worry about things that often won’t happen.”
She also emphasizes the importance of spiritual and emotional support: “Prayer was invaluable. I had a few close family and friends I confided in. Their prayer and support helped me to get through my toughest times.”
A Grateful Heart
Melissa’s story is a powerful reminder of the strength, vulnerability, and hope that define so many fertility journeys. We’re deeply thankful to her for sharing such a personal and inspiring experience—and for allowing others to find comfort and connection through her words.
At Tennessee Fertility Institute, we’re honored to walk alongside patients like Melissa, offering compassionate care and expert guidance every step of the way.
