In a unique blend of humor and sentimentality, a couple, Lisa and Tom Bennett, recently took part in an extraordinary photoshoot featuring their embryos. This heartwarming adventure began when they underwent in vitro fertilization (IVF) and were entrusted with a cardboard box containing a metal tank housing their cryopreserved embryos. When faced with the prospect of having their embryos shipped via FedEx, the Bennetts decided against it after seeing viral videos of careless package handling.
Lisa recounted, “We imagined our embryos being tossed over fences, and I immediately thought, NO WAY!” Instead, they opted to transport the embryos themselves, as suggested by their embryologist, who mentioned that many couples choose this route. Rather than merely driving to the clinic, the Bennetts transformed the trip into a fun-filled photo opportunity. “As we drove to pick them up, we started joking about taking pictures with the embryos and ended up laughing until we cried. So we decided to go for it!”
This spontaneous decision was fueled by their deep emotional connection to what they viewed as their future children. Lisa expressed, “We may never have this chance again. These embryos are our kids; they felt just as alive to us as if they were already born.”
Their whimsical adventure included a visit to a playground, a stop to select a puppy, and even a lesson where Tom “taught” the embryos how to hit a baseball. They also made a quick detour to introduce the embryos to their grandparents. “We knew I might face fertility challenges before we even got married,” Lisa shared. “I was diagnosed with PCOS, endometriosis, and had other health concerns. We decided to skip the expensive wedding and focus on adoption, foster care, and fertility treatments.”
To address any concerns about the safety of their photo session, the couple confirmed with their embryologist that the metal tank was safe for two days. They successfully transported their embryos to the new clinic in about four hours, giving them just enough time to check off milestones like selecting their baby’s first Christmas tree and enjoying a stroller walk.
Last August, the Bennetts welcomed triplets—Ella Harper, Noah James, and Mia Grace—despite being told they had only a one percent chance of that outcome. Now six months old, these beautiful babies will always have photos capturing their journey from being embryos in a metal tank to beloved children going on adventures with their parents. For more insights and support on topics like this, you can explore resources like Make a Mom and WebMD.
Looking ahead, Lisa plans to share these treasured photos with her children, telling them, “I want them to know how truly wanted and loved they were, and I hope they’ll use these photos for Throwback Thursday posts one day!”
Summary
Lisa and Tom Bennett creatively documented their journey with IVF by taking their embryos on a series of adventures before their transfer to a new clinic. From playful outings to heartfelt moments, their story illustrates the emotional connection many couples have with their embryos. The Bennetts welcomed triplets last August, defying odds and creating lasting memories, which they intend to share with their children in the future.