Is anyone a member of Donor Conception Network?

[Tyrtle]

Is anyone a member of the donor conception network and if you are would you recommend it? What kind of things do you get for the cost?

If you are considering donor conception or already have a DC child then I would absolutely recommend the DCNetwork. I have been a member for about 15 years since when I was just staryting out as a solo mum. The good thing is the community of other members who can offer support via local groups, online chats and workshops etc. When you join you get a welcomer who will be a person who is further along in the journey (e.g. with older donor conceived children) so you can speak one to one. You will also get bulletins and a regular journal plus discount on their books etc.

It is a brilliant resource for those thinking about donor conception. It has been there for me and my kids from the beginning and has enabled my children to grow up with other donor conceived kids which has really helped them.

They run a free webinar outlining the benefits of joining. The next one is 13th September so they can answer any questions you have about what DCNetwork would offer you before you make up your mind.

bookwhen.com/public#focus=ev-s3cu-20220913183000

C xx

I am and it's worth it for the relevent WhatsApp groups alone (babies due in 2021, mixed families, single mothers by choice etc etc). Theres another organisation (paths to parenthub I think it's called) which does some similar stuff but it's a lot more expensive (it may be value for money but I just can't afford it). I would absolutely recommend DCN to anyone considering donor conception

That’s so helpful! Thank you both. I’ll take another look.

Yep, I'm a member and it's a brilliant organisation. I totally recommend membership - I've only used a fraction of the resources that are available, but what I have used has been fantastic.

I don't use donor conception network but when TTC in the past, I connected with other solo mums through online on internet.

Did you find these connections anywhere in particular? I’m going to have a look at Facebook, not a lot of groups seem that helpful but I’m sure if I keep searching I’ll find one or two good ones.

I have been thinking about it. Thanks for the info about the webinar

Yes, we had a simon from double donation. They run talking groups and it’s nice to talk to other people who understand the struggles and decisions. They also have what’s app chat and regular meet ups and run various workshops about explaining donor conception to your children. All sexualities are welcome and it’s a kind and inclusive space that is really well run.

Yes - we've found it really helpful so far. Their support group chats are good and it normalises the process to speak to other real people. There's also some good info on their website and they have a library where you can borrow books about DC.