According to Fertility Canada, roughly 1 in 6 couples experience infertility, a number that has doubled in Canada since the 1980's. Yet, infertility and pregnancy loss  is not a topic that we often talk openly about. Those affected can experience social and psychological consequences ranging from feelings of shame or guilt, to more serious psychological symptoms including: depression, a sense of isolation and loss of self-esteem. Friends and family often don't know how best to offer support and comfort.

Join us for this important discussion as our guest speakers share their experiences and knowledge about infertility, pregnancy loss and how best to support those you love going through this.

1. Linda Hoang. Linda is one of Alberta’s leading social media strategists and a well-known blogger and content creator. Linda and her partner Mike have been trying to conceive for eight years. They have Unexplained Infertility and have been open about their journey to loved ones and online. Linda is also the co-founder of Stop Race Based Hate, a new anti-racism education tool, and the founder of the Edmonton International Cat Festival, which returns in May.

2. Caroline Andersen, a registered Psychologist in Edmonton. She specializes in reproductive mental health specifically infertility, miscarriage, stillbirth, PPD/PPA, donor conception and reproductive trauma.

3.  Dr. Ariadne (Ariana) Daniel was born and raised in Edmonton. She earned her Doctor of Medicine degree with special training in research at the University of Alberta where she also pursued a five year residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology. She completed a fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (REI) at Mount Sinai Hospital through the University of Toronto. She then returned home to Edmonton to provide fertility care. Dr. Daniel has an active interest in research and medical education. She is an Assistant Professor at the University of Alberta and is involved in teaching medical students, residents, fellows, and family physicians.

4. Blaise Hunter, an author, two-time award-winning humanitarian, international speaker, fertility expert, certified human rights advocate, Mother of Purpose, and Breaker of Chains. She is a change agent for women’s rights. Blaise’s mission is to shake up the status quo and right the wrongs of this world. Leveraging her expertise in the entertainment, journalism, and public relations industries, she is a sought-after consultant. She is the fertility expert that doesn't help people get pregnant, rather she teaches people how to be fertile in their lives and get pregnant with purpose. After experiencing three miscarriages, Blaise turned her pain into her pearl and birthed the non-profit organization: Footprints Infertility & Pregnancy Loss Support Initiative. She is changing the healthcare system one hospital at a time with her advocacy.

A Conversation About Infertility and Pregnancy Loss