April & Richard

April and Aaron Parker from Saltillo, Mississippi, have a story marked by deep love and resilience. After meeting at a New Year’s Eve party in 2009, their connection was immediate, leading to a quick engagement and a joyful marriage in May 2010. However, their early years of marriage were challenging, resulting in a divorce by their second anniversary. Despite this, their love endured, and they rekindled their relationship in 2014. Aaron’s heartfelt proposal in 2016, followed by their remarriage in 2017, was a testament to their enduring bond.

Their journey to parenthood, however, has been fraught with difficulties. After struggling with infertility, they discovered that Aaron’s health issues, stemming from a preterm birth, had significantly impacted his fertility. Despite several medical setbacks and emotional struggles, including a devastating failed IUI, April and Aaron remained committed to their dream of becoming parents. Their faith and perseverance led them to continue exploring options, including IVF, despite the financial challenges involved.

Through their infertility journey, April and Aaron have found a renewed sense of purpose and advocacy. They are committed to raising awareness about infertility and supporting others in similar situations. Their experiences have strengthened their relationship and deepened their empathy, inspiring them to advocate for better infertility support and eventually create a non-profit to help couples in Mississippi. Their story is a powerful example of faith, resilience, and the transformative power of love.

They are recipients of the 2023 Brunchella Grant.

While their round of IVF with the Starfish Grant was unsuccessful, they are pregnant and expecting their baby boy in December 2024.