Julie Mintz’s incredible journey to motherhood spans over a decade. At 33, she took the important step of freezing 28 eggs as a safety net, uncertain when she’d start a family. Over nearly 14 years, she faced challenges, setbacks, and heartbreak. Yet this May 2025, at age 47, she finally welcomed baby Ophelia Laurette, conceived from one of those frozen eggs.
Julie’s decision to freeze her eggs came from desire and practicality. Life in a big city made finding the right partner difficult, so she wanted to keep her options open. Initially, she believed she wouldn’t need those eggs, but medical advice reassured her that the batch was enough for two children’s conception.
After meeting Stephen at 41, they tried natural conception, but her PCOS presented obstacles. At 42, they turned to the frozen eggs, only to discover both carried the rare Wilson disease gene. This meant additional testing and delays before moving forward.
Tragically, the first attempt to thaw the eggs failed, destroying them all; thankfully, she had only thawed half. A second attempt rescued one viable embryo. Julie wished to carry her own child but faced medical issues, including a failed surgery and warnings that pregnancy could be unsafe.
Nine more unsuccessful egg retrievals were emotionally exhausting. Finally, with a surrogate match at 46, the embryo transfer successfully took place during a European tour. The pregnancy news brought joyous relief.
Julie took part in her daughter’s birth and now works to help others through the Midsummer Dream Grant. Her story highlights perseverance, hope, and the miracles made possible through modern medicine.
