The $50K+ Cost of Hope: IVF, Superannuation & the 4 Hardships Women Face
Introducing: Sarah
What price do you pay to advocate for your health - and for hope?
For Sarah Wallace, that question has been answered in ways both heartbreaking and costly.
Luan is joined by Sarah, founder of the Wish Collective, to talk about her experience of Assisted Fertility Treatment, pregnancy loss, and what she describes as the four hardships of fertility treatment: mental, emotional, physical and financial.
When the wait lists were too long and the Medicare rebates fell short, Sarah drew down all her superannuation, more than $50,000, to fund IVF alone. That meant wiping out her future financial security for the chance of an earth-side baby. And to access those funds, she had to take on a mental health diagnosis that will remain on her health record.
Together, they talk about dashed hopes, resilience and the strength that comes from community support in moments when you can’t carry it alone. Sarah’s story shines a light on the hidden costs women are asked to taken on, not just in the moment, but in ways that shape their future too.
Her honesty is a powerful offering. It includes the gift of an earth-side baby, and now, a quietly joyful update.
This is part one of their conversation. In part two, Sarah shares why she faces the prospect of drawing down on her superannuation again to help futureproof her health and reduce her inherited cancer risk. Subscribe so you don’t miss it!
A note for listeners: this episode discusses fertility challenges, pregnancy loss and related experiences. Please listen in a way that feels safe for you. It’s always okay to pause or step away if you need to.
Wish collective: waiting in shared hope
In this episode:
The hidden financial, emotional and mental costs of self-advocacy in fertility care
What it means to draw down on superannuation to fund Assisted Fertility Treatment
How online communities and peer support offer strength during traumatic experiences
The emotional and mental health toll of pregnancy loss and prolonged waiting
Why language matters when speaking about loss, hope and fertility
How the healthcare system falls short and what women do to fill the gaps
Resources for this episode:
Read the ATO’s resources about early access to super
Connect with Guest:
Follow Sarah on Instagram
Connect with the Wish Collective on Facebook
Connect with Luan:
Follow Luan on Instagram
Subscribe to Luan’s Substack
Get Luan's free guide to Self-Advocacy
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