In this episode, I'm joined by Ash (he/him), a father living in Hobart, Tasmania, with his partner Chelsea (she/her) and their two-year-old son, Luen. Ash shares their journey of becoming parents.
Ash and Chelsea went through the process of IVF for 2.5-3 years and sadly experienced a miscarriage in the process. They made the move from Melbourne to Tasmania during their IVF journey and we speak about the process of transporting their embryos over there.
Ash's unwavering support for Chelsea during her pregnancy, labour, and birth is a significant part of their story. Chelsea had an induced labour due to reduced amniotic fluid, which resulted in a swift but painful experience. They had a wonderful obstetrician and felt supported throughout the transformative process, and Ash got to catch Luen as he was being born. The labour and birth became a deeply spiritual journey and the most profound experience of Ash's life.
The initial month of parenthood created a magical atmosphere, even through the sleep deprivation. Ash reflects on how fatherhood has changed him, forcing him to confront himself and become the best version of himself for his child.
As Chelsea manages her own thriving hairdressing business, Ash took on the primary care for the first two and a half years of Luen's life and is now transitioning back into his art and music career. Balancing his responsibilities as a father, partner and retaining his creative practice has shown his dedication and enduring love for his family.
Ash also talks about witnessing their child's unique personality emerge each day. The joy he finds in seeing their son grow and thrive reflects the incredible journey they have embarked upon as parents.
PANDA: https://panda.org.au/
Pink Elephants: https://www.pinkelephants.org.au/
SANDS: https://www.sands.org.au/
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The Definitely Baby theme music was written by Hagan Mathews and produced at @sleeplessfootscray.
This podcast was recorded on the lands of Wurundjeri Wilam and Boon Wurrung/Bunurong peoples of the Kulin Nation. This always was and always will be the land of the First Nations peoples. Every month, I Pay The Rent and so can you - click here to learn more.
