Being a Donor

Tom Acland, Melbourne

When my friends Kelly and Kylee decided to start a family back in 2012, and embarked on the rollercoaster journey of in vitro fertilization, they did not meet with success. After a few months, they asked me if I would consider becoming a sperm donor.

After talking with my partner Adam, I decided that I would. I then sat down with Kelly and Kylee and together we drew up a contract of understanding. This was very important, especially because we were close friends; it would have been too easy to make assumptions because we knew each other so well. We agreed that Adam and I would act as uncles – to babysit, to share important milestones, and to help support the baby’s interests and personal development.

Evan was conceived at the first attempt – the fertility gods were smiling. Being part of Evan’s life is wonderful and has reinforced my belief that family is about people in your life who want you in theirs.

I’m proud to say Evan now has a baby sister, born in January 2017.