The First Steps: Journawell’s IVF Beginning
Our story began with a deeply personal IVF journey to Turkey—a journey of hope, resilience, and love. At 37, I was facing infertility challenges and had undergone tubal removal surgery during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in the UK. Like so many others, I was caught in the endless delays of the National Health Service, where non-urgent surgeries were postponed indefinitely. Time wasn’t on my side, and my body couldn’t wait any longer.
Facing the Diagnosis
Before the pandemic, I was diagnosed with hydrosalpinx—a condition where fluid builds up in the fallopian tubes, making natural conception almost impossible. The diagnosis was devastating, shattering my hopes of conceiving naturally and leaving me overwhelmed with uncertainty. It forced me to confront the stark reality of my situation and spurred me into action, determined to explore every possible option. The recommended treatment was a laparoscopic salpingectomy to remove the damaged tube, but with the pandemic halting all non-urgent procedures, everything came to a standstill. I spent months calling the hospital daily, pleading for updates, only to be told that surgeries were reserved for urgent cases. Each delay added to the heartbreak as I realised I was losing precious time.
Determined to take control, I dove into research, creating a personal directory of every possible way to improve my fertility—from Chinese teas and herbal remedies to specialised exercises and creams. One remedy I tried was a traditional Chinese tea said to improve circulation to the reproductive organs. I drank it religiously every morning, despite its bitter taste, hoping for a miracle. I also incorporated fertility-focused yoga poses into my routine, which helped me feel more centred and empowered. Though these efforts didn’t bring the results I hoped for, they kept my spirits high and gave me the strength to keep moving forward. I followed countless stories of women who claimed to have conceived naturally after similar struggles. My days became filled with acupuncture sessions, scouring eBay for supplements, and trying every alternative therapy I could find. But despite my best efforts, nothing worked.
A Turning Point
After nearly a year of relentless effort and mounting disheartenment, I finally received the call I had been waiting for: my surgery was scheduled. The procedure to remove the damaged tube and scar tissue was successful, and I was given the green light to either conceive naturally or prepare for IVF. But as the months passed, it became clear that nature needed a little help. That’s when we made the decision to pursue IVF.
In some UK counties, the NHS offers up to three rounds of IVF for struggling couples, but at 37, and with my partner David already having children, we didn’t qualify. The path ahead felt daunting until I remembered my personal connection to Turkey. Having lived in Istanbul a decade earlier, I knew the country offered world-class healthcare at a fraction of the cost. The idea of combining treatment with a cultural adventure felt like the perfect solution.
Planning the Trip
In April 2022, just a few months after my surgery, we embarked on what would become a life-changing journey. As we packed our bags and finalised our plans, a mix of emotions washed over me—hope, excitement, and nervous anticipation. I couldn’t help but wonder if this trip would finally bring us the answers we had been longing for. The thought of combining a critical medical procedure with the chance to explore a country I loved filled me with determination and a sense of adventure. What began as a straightforward one-week trip for treatment soon turned into a three-week adventure through one of our favourite countries. Turkey, with its rich culture, incredible food, bustling markets, and world-class medical care, became the backdrop to our IVF story.
The planning process wasn’t easy. I had endless questions about the procedure and logistics, with no one to guide me. On top of that, I had the challenge of creating daily itineraries to keep my two stepchildren entertained. Balancing the energy for sightseeing, planning, and managing my emotional well-being often felt overwhelming. Some days, I simply didn’t have the strength to figure it all out.
The IVF Experience
Choosing a clinic in Istanbul required hours of meticulous research. I wanted to ensure we found a facility that was not only affordable but also professional and compassionate. One of my biggest concerns was whether the clinic would communicate clearly in English, especially when discussing complex medical terms. I also worried about managing follow-up care once we returned to the UK. These questions weighed heavily on my mind, but they also drove me to leave no stone unturned in finding the best possible option. When we arrived, I was blown away by the care and expertise of the medical team. The process was seamless, and I felt supported every step of the way. The clinic’s professionalism exceeded all my expectations, and I couldn’t have asked for a better experience.
Our time in Turkey wasn’t just about the procedure. It was about creating lasting memories as a family. We explored vibrant bazaars, indulged in mouthwatering Turkish cuisine, and soaked in the beauty of a country that had already captured my heart years before. Istanbul, with its unique blend of East and West, provided the perfect setting for our journey.
Sights and Experiences in Turkey
Our trip to Turkey wasn’t just about IVF; it was a chance to explore a country that had always held a special place in my heart. Some of the highlights of our journey included:
Galata Tower: A historic landmark offering stunning views of Istanbul’s skyline and the Bosphorus. The sense of history in this spot was palpable, and it provided the perfect backdrop for a family photo.
Eminönü Grand Bazaar: We got lost in the labyrinthine streets of this bustling market, filled with colourful textiles, fragrant spices, and rich Turkish delights. It was an unforgettable sensory experience.
Tuzla: A peaceful district near the sea, where we took time to relax and recharge, away from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Levent: The metro station near my clinic, which also inspired the middle name for our child. Every day, we passed through Levent and thought about the significance it would hold in our lives.
Princess Island: We took a boat trip to this tranquil island, famous for its beautiful beaches and historic landmarks. It was a much-needed escape after the intensity of IVF.
Kadıköy: This vibrant district offered a unique blend of modern and traditional, with bustling markets, eclectic cafes, and an energetic vibe that made us feel like locals.
Boat Trips: A highlight of our visit was cruising on the Bosphorus, soaking in the beautiful views of both the European and Asian sides of Istanbul. The gentle breeze and stunning sunset provided the perfect end to our days.
Cevahir Mall: One of the largest shopping malls in Istanbul, offering everything from designer boutiques to unique Turkish souvenirs. We spent hours browsing, shopping, and enjoying family time together.
Our Airbnb in Şişli: The flat we rented provided the perfect home base for our adventure. It was located in a lively neighbourhood, close to everything we wanted to explore. The experience of living like locals added a personal touch to our trip.
Taksim Square: A bustling centre of Istanbul, famous for its lively atmosphere and vibrant nightlife. We spent an afternoon strolling through the square, visiting nearby shops, and soaking in the energy of this iconic place.
Hagia Sophia: A true marvel of architecture and history, this former church and mosque turned museum left us in awe. Its stunning mosaics and intricate design were a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Turkey.
Topkapi Palace: A visit to the seat of the Ottoman Empire was like stepping back in time. The palace’s opulent rooms, courtyards, and magnificent views of the Bosphorus were simply unforgettable.
Basilica Cistern: An underground treasure that took us by surprise with its eerie beauty. The atmospheric lighting and rows of ancient columns made it feel like we had entered a forgotten world.
A Message of Hope
Looking back, I’m grateful for every twist and turn in our journey. It wasn’t easy, but it was worth it. This experience taught me so much about resilience and the importance of perseverance. It brought our family closer together and reminded me that even in the most challenging times, there’s strength to be found in hope and determination.
To anyone facing similar struggles, know that you’re not alone. There’s always hope, even when the path ahead seems uncertain. Whether it’s through IVF or another route, your dream is worth fighting for. And if your journey takes you abroad, remember that it’s not just about the destination—it’s about the memories you create along the way.
Our passion for travel and supporting others began here, on this very journey. The blend of medical care and cultural exploration opened our eyes to the power of combining meaningful experiences with personal well-being. It was during this trip that the spark for Journawell was ignited—the idea that everyone deserves tailored support on their travel and health journeys, no matter how big or small. This trip to Turkey wasn’t just life-changing for us; it laid the foundation for what would eventually become Journawell, a business built on the desire to guide others through their unique paths and provide them with the best of both worlds—expertise in travel and personalised support for life's most important experiences.
Turkey will always hold a special place in our hearts, not just for its incredible culture and care but for giving us the opportunity to take control of our journey to parenthood and inspiring a new chapter in our lives that would lead to helping others live their own extraordinary experiences.
