We are absolutely delighted to introduce our first Fertility Alliance Ambassadors, Jonathan Luwagga and Bethan Shoemark-Spear.
Jonathan is a great male fertility advocate and has achieved so much through his openness and honesty about his own experiences.
Jonathan says “I am passionate about breaking the silence around male infertility, a journey I know all too well. Diagnosed with non-obstructive azoospermia, I’ve faced the challenges of navigating a condition that affects not only my health but also my identity and relationships. Through countless appointments, tests, and procedures, I’ve gained first hand insight into the emotional and mental toll of infertility – a struggle often underrepresented in conversations about reproductive health. My experience has inspired me to become an Ambassador for Fertility Alliance by sharing my story, I hope to foster understanding, dismantle stigmas and empower others to embrace their fertility journeys with resilience and hope.”
Bethan has worked in the field of fertility for the last three years, focusing on support solutions and patient representation for those on a fertility journey who are LGBTQ+.
She is a lay committee member on the NICE fertility guideline and an HFEA Patient Engagement Forum member.
Bethan and her wife underwent their own journey spanning 4 years and 9 IVF cycles. During this time they made connections with others on a similar journey, and know first hand the importance of organisations like The Fertility Alliance for facilitating safe spaces for people to connect.
Bethan and her wife are both egg and embryo donors, as well as using a donor on their own journey. Unexpectedly Bethan discovered her own infertility and health-related fertility issues during their journey and she is passionate about educating health professionals to ensure their diagnostic questioning is relevant for same sex female couples.
Bethan tells us she is honoured to become an Ambassador for the Fertility Alliance and is excited to work alongside such a dedicated, knowledgeable and compassionate team.
We are so proud to have Bethan and Jonathan as part of The Fertility Alliance team and we’re so excited about what we can achieve together.