Growing up with a big extended family; including both adopted and step siblings; Jade O’Conner knows firsthand that love is the foundation for a strong family.

“My maternal grandparents adopted and raised me,” said Jade.

“So, from a very young age I’ve appreciated and understood alternative ways to have children and create families.”

Jade is a single mother raising her nine-year-old daughter.

“My pregnancy experience was great,” she said.

“I loved being pregnant and just love being “mommy!”

After she gave birth, Jade began thinking about couples facing infertility issues and wanted to help, by becoming a surrogate.

“Just the thought of delivering that kind of happiness to a couple in need brought a smile to my face,” she said.

“I knew becoming a surrogate was for me!”

Just like with many traditional pregnancies, the road to having a baby through surrogacy can take time. Jade has had a long journey.

But with the support she had along the way from the surrogacy community, she made it to the moment where it was all worth it.

“I have had failed transfers and matches that have fell through,” she said. “But through it all, I never felt alone because the team at Expect Miracles was there; encouraging me not to lose hope.”

She remained positive and her perfect match was right around the corner.

This year, Jade gave birth to a healthy baby boy.

“To see this beautiful baby in his father’s arms was incredible,” said Jade.