Babies, tots and delighted parents returned to where it all began to celebrate their new lives.
Mums and dads who required a bit of extra help to conceive were invited to Calderdale Royal Hospital’s Assisted Conception Unit (ACU) annual party.
Couples who underwent fertility treatment brought their bundles of joy back to meet the doctors and nurses that helped them.
This year’s do featured a surprise twin, a couple who had success with IVF after 18 months of heartache and a lesbian couple who had been trying for three years.
More than 100 babies or toddlers and 20 children enjoyed face painting, a baby ball pool and a buffet.
Sister, Helen Marvell, said: “It’s always a pleasure for us to arrange this party because we know our families enjoy coming here so much.
“It’s fab to meet up again and to see them all again and see how their little ones are growing up.”
Consultant Martin DeBono, added: “Everyone at ACU is a team and that team includes our staff and our families.
“We go through it all together so the party is a real celebration for us all.”
Daniel and Claire Woodward, from Almondbury, joined the party with baby Charlie James, now 16 weeks.
Claire had a complicated pregnancy where her body developed a condition where her immune system was attacking the embryo.
Mr DeBono arranged for specialist tests to determine the cause and prescribed medication to counter the condition allowing the embryo and ultimately the baby to develop.
Claire, said: “ You have to be determined and be prepared for heartache along the way. But it’s all worth it in the end. The service is fantastic and the staff are very, very friendly.”
Rebecca and Andrew Dignan, from Skelmanthorpe, attended with 11-week old baby Lily – one of the youngest guests there.
They were referred after 18 months without success trying for a family.
Rebecca said: “They really, really, care here and they are emotionally with you all the way. For us, it happened very quickly and we were lucky”.
Kate Bell and Rachel Hawthorn, from Hebden Bridge, shared the fun with their three-month-old daughter Iona.
Iona was born after they had been trying for three years and they were successful after their first IVF treatment.
Rachel said: “Lesbian couples can find it difficult to get the information and support they need to start a family but as soon as we came here we felt comfortable and were given the information we needed to help us start the journey.
“We know many friends who have tried different ways and there is no right way for everyone”.
Nine-month-old Thomas Taylor was a little secret baby until a scan revealed his existence hidden alongside his twin sister Lily.
His mum Victoria Hendy-Taylor, from Sowerby Bridge, had three embryos implanted the day before her 41st birthday.
She was initially told she was pregnant with one baby then went on holiday. When she returned the next scan revealed baby Thomas.
A confidential advice service for people struggling to conceive is available via FertilityCHFT@cht.nhs.uk.
