The Aussie boys finally arrived at ILH so together, we all five went to visit the M-block market - one of the busiest markets in New Delhi. It's basically rows of shops selling a large range of commodities and products including brand names. There are also Western eateries - before walking the market, we stopped at KFC for a bite. Unfortunately, we were not able to stay too long, thanks to me - my appointment with the lawyer back at the clinic was scheduled for 5pm (the Greek-Oz friends were scheduled for 5:30pm) but the market is only a few minutes away. However, I was able to purchase a nice set of silver earrings, pendant, and chain for my mom for 4000 rupees - definitely a deal relative to what you would have to pay back home. Interesting note - although they have a VISA sign up, they only took cash. During the same time, I also received an email from the clinic stating that my egg donor had an egg retrieval of 19 eggs. Although that was good news, I also knew in my mind, given my previous surrogacy experience, that the number that ultimately counts is the number that gets fertilized and the grading of each embryo. The transfer is on Saturday so I should get a report before or around then.
I had to wait a bit to see the lawyer so technically we didn't have to rush from the market. I had a quick question for the lawyer but basically I initialled the pages of the contract with a few full signatures here and there. They send the contract ahead of time to review. In all, it took less than 10 minutes. They do ask you if you would like to meet your surrogate. In the end, I did meet her and basically thanked for being my surrogate and wished her all the best. I added that I was already a parent via surrogacy and my son was looking forward to becoming a big brother - I showed her a photo of my son on my smartphone. It's not the most comfortable situation so best be prepared with what you want to say if you do wish to meet your surrogate. Mine was not too shy and made eye contact me with me. In the end, I asked if she had any questions, which she didn't, and thanked her again. Since I was not going to be here on Friday, they said they would scan and email my contract to me.
After that, I went back to the hotel with the Aussie boys and rested up (including a shower) before we all five us met up again to have dinner at TGI Fridays in the mall. After dinner, I went to get more money exchanged in the mall at TUI Travel before heading back to my room. Caught up with more work emails before falling asleep quite early.
Thank you for letting me share this part of my world with you!
Here are a couple of shots of the lounge area at the clinic. I cannot say enough about how friendly the staff are there - they also offer you bottled water and juiceboxes. The lounge itself is very modern looking and clean. It can get busy when there are many clients in there but we all just make room for each other. It's a wonderful place to meet other clients and potential new friends!
Update (September 9): SCI has posted a video on YouTube - what you see is what you get. That is the identical tour that Dr. S took me on. I was very impressed with how put together the surrogates were dressed and groomed. We share our building with some government staff, some of which could learn from these ladies in terms of how to present themselves.
I had to wait a bit to see the lawyer so technically we didn't have to rush from the market. I had a quick question for the lawyer but basically I initialled the pages of the contract with a few full signatures here and there. They send the contract ahead of time to review. In all, it took less than 10 minutes. They do ask you if you would like to meet your surrogate. In the end, I did meet her and basically thanked for being my surrogate and wished her all the best. I added that I was already a parent via surrogacy and my son was looking forward to becoming a big brother - I showed her a photo of my son on my smartphone. It's not the most comfortable situation so best be prepared with what you want to say if you do wish to meet your surrogate. Mine was not too shy and made eye contact me with me. In the end, I asked if she had any questions, which she didn't, and thanked her again. Since I was not going to be here on Friday, they said they would scan and email my contract to me.
After that, I went back to the hotel with the Aussie boys and rested up (including a shower) before we all five us met up again to have dinner at TGI Fridays in the mall. After dinner, I went to get more money exchanged in the mall at TUI Travel before heading back to my room. Caught up with more work emails before falling asleep quite early.
Thank you for letting me share this part of my world with you!
Here are a couple of shots of the lounge area at the clinic. I cannot say enough about how friendly the staff are there - they also offer you bottled water and juiceboxes. The lounge itself is very modern looking and clean. It can get busy when there are many clients in there but we all just make room for each other. It's a wonderful place to meet other clients and potential new friends!
Update (September 9): SCI has posted a video on YouTube - what you see is what you get. That is the identical tour that Dr. S took me on. I was very impressed with how put together the surrogates were dressed and groomed. We share our building with some government staff, some of which could learn from these ladies in terms of how to present themselves.
Can I just say thank you for sharing the simple things with us - we are leaving next week and all those foolish questions that we really didn't want to ask??? You've answered them all :)
ReplyDeleteA truly great resource for first time SCI clients!
First of all, I'm so excited for you! You will have a wonderful time! Secondly, thank you for the kind words - I do enjoy blogging my experiences and perspectives but I hope to provide valuable information that complements what is already out there. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteEnjoyed your comments on your blog, & reading about your family goals. My husband & I are also expecting, twins about 17 1/2 weeks along; also, due the beginning of next year. I look forward to reading your future posts. Cheers! Howard
ReplyDeleteCongratulations to you both, Howard! How exciting - twins! Thank you for the kind words. It's been fun sharing my thoughts and experiences, and most importantly connecting with other wonderful people like yourself. I wish you both have a uneventful second half of your pregnancy!
ReplyDelete