Resilience Through Adversity and Building Community with Anne-Marie Luca Artwork

Fertility in Focus by Fertility Matters Canada

The journey to parenthood is one filled with hope, heartache, and unexpected twists and turns - and for those experiencing fertility struggles, the road can be an emotional rollercoaster. Fertility Matters Canada is proud to present a new podcast that explores the complex and often emotional journey of fertility. Hosted by Carolynn Dubé, Executive Director of Fertility Matters Canada, our show features informative interviews with leading fertility specialists and heartfelt stories from real people who have experienced the highs and lows of trying to conceive. Whether you're facing fertility challenges yourself or simply interested in learning more about this important and often misunderstood aspect of reproductive health, Fertility in Focus provides a safe and supportive space for listeners to engage, reflect, and be inspired. Join us as we bring Fertility in Focus.

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Fertility in Focus by Fertility Matters Canada

Resilience Through Adversity and Building Community with Anne-Marie Luca

May 06, 2025 • Season 2 • Episode 10

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This episode of Fertility in Focus takes you through Anne-Marie’s personal narrative of resilience on the path to parenthood and the groundbreaking work she has done in Quebec through the non-profit, Centre ESPER. After being diagnosed with cervical cancer, Anne-Marie sought fertility preservation and in 2019 welcomed her first child via surrogacy. Anne-Marie felt the need for fertility resources and support first hand as a French-speaking patient, and decided to act. She founded Infoprocréation to fill the gap in resources available to Francophone patients, as the community is often overshadowed by the English-speaking fertility care landscape. The conversation doesn't shy away from the emotional and psychological aftermath of cancer and infertility. We touch on the feelings of isolation and grief that accompany the expectation of returning to a "normal" life post-treatment. Anne-Marie’s transition from journalist to consultant signifies the power of personal hardship as a catalyst for positive change, emphasizing the role of community and specialized therapy in overcoming life’s most daunting challenges. Join us for a journey of healing, hope, and the strength found in shared experiences.

More about our guest speaker:

Anne-Marie Luca is the founder of Centre ESPER, an organization based in Quebec that offers support and information to individuals navigating the complexities of assisted reproduction journeys such as surrogacy. She is also co-host of the French podcast Les Infertiles. Her personal fertility journey began when she was diagnosed with cervical cancer at age 34, and needed a hysterectomy in order to survive. After her procedure and cancer treatment, surrogacy was her only option to conceive a biological child. While on this journey, she noticed the lack of information and support in French for people struggling with infertility. Her son was born three years after her diagnosis, and with it the strong desire to help others on their fertility journey.

Website: www.centre-esper.ca/fr/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/centreesper

Instagram: @centre_esper

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