I would like to begin by expressing my gratitude to Donna and the team of volunteers that make this organization possible. The information I received from icpcare.org was instrumental in receiving my diagnosis and I am forever grateful.

The road to holding my son in my arms was one paved with exhaustion, loss, and anxiety, but ultimately joy. I underwent several fertility treatments, the loss of my first pregnancy, and finally IVF to become pregnant with my son. Because of other underlying conditions, my pregnancy was slightly high risk, but had a very positive outlook – until I was 35 weeks pregnant. When my itching hadn’t subsided after two days, I looked up my symptoms online. I knew in my gut I had ICP and contacted my doctor. My blood work came back a couple of days later and confirmed my belief. My husband and I went from hope, joyful anticipation, and relative calm, to fear, worry, and panic. Because I was not diagnosed until 35 weeks, I hadn’t received Ursodiol, NSTs, or BPPs typically administered during an ICP pregnancy. My doctor informed me we needed to get this baby out safely, and we needed to do it immediately. I was induced three days later.

On September 20, 2016, at 36 weeks gestation our son was born. 7 pounds, 10 ounces, 21 inches long. Can you believe the size of him?!

Thank you for taking the time to read my story. I am in awe at the strength of this community and I’m so glad to contribute.