Egg donation is more than a medical procedure—it’s a journey filled with hope, sacrifice, and dedication. The commitment of our egg donors is a powerful reminder of the lengths people will go to to help others become parents.
Central Egg Bank connects hopeful families with the incredible generosity of egg donors from Ukraine. These donors stand out for their exceptional devotion and compassion.
Recently, Ian Trevallion, our Australian counsellor, had the opportunity to travel to Ukraine and witness their lifestyle firsthand. His experiences provide an insight into their selfless contributions and daily lives. In this blog, we’ll take an in-depth look at Ian’s journey and discover the unwavering commitment of our Ukrainian donors.
A journey of compassion and connection
Ian has been a crucial part of Central Egg Bank’s operation, providing mandatory counselling for Ukrainian egg donors via video link for the past five years. Ian’s visit reinforced his belief that Ukrainian egg donors are truly committed to helping others become parents, ensuring that CEB provides recipients with eggs from compassionate and caring donors.
“I have the honour of undertaking mandatory counselling for all of the Ukrainian egg donors whose eggs are coming to Australia from Central Egg Bank,” Ian explains. “This visit allowed me to experience their culture and understand more about these incredible individuals behind these donations.”
Ian’s trip was both a professional and deeply personal experience. The differences and similarities in our lifestyles moved him in a way he didn’t expect.
“After entering Ukraine by train from Poland, which was packed with locals returning to their homes, I was met by our interpreter, Maria, in Lviv,” remembers Ian. “She greeted me in traditional Ukrainian dress and presented me with a korovai cake, a symbol of hospitality and friendship.”
Ian smiles at the memory. “This warm welcome was my first taste of the generosity that defines our Ukrainian donors.”
Immersing in Ukrainian culture
Ian’s time in Ukraine was marked by a blend of professional and personal discovery. He spent two days in Lviv, exploring the city and experiencing its vibrant culture.
“We caught an Uber to a charming hotel and then spent two days immersing ourselves in Lviv’s lively atmosphere,” Ian recalls. “We enjoyed chic cafes, delectable chocolate shops, and quirky specialty stores. Lviv is a city full of life and energy, and its charm was evident in every corner.”
Ian travelled overnight by sleeper train from Lviv to Kyiv, experiencing another facet of Ukrainian life. “On the sleeper train to Kyiv, we were served tea in the cabin in the morning. It was a quaint reminder of old-world charm which still exists in some places.”
“Kyiv, the capital, offered a different yet equally captivating experience,” says Ian.”Our days there were filled with visits to restaurants, parks, and museums, and of course, sampling gelato and shopping.”
Read: 7 questions to ask your Australian IVF clinic
The dedication of our Ukrainian donors
One of the most meaningful highlights of Ian’s visit was discovering the Ukrainian culture and cityscape with Maria. Although he didn’t meet any donors during his trip, Ian gained a deep appreciation for these amazing women.
“When I counselled Ukrainian donors in the past, I was always moved by their sincere desire to help others. These donors, all of whom already have their own children, expressed their excitement at the possibility of meeting the children and families they are helping in the future.”
The personal stories about these donors were heartwarming and humbling, deepening Ian’s respect for their devotion and compassion.
“I was deeply touched by the words of one donor who said, ‘I want to help someone else’s wish come true, to have a child, so that my wish, to have my husband return from the war, may also come true.’” Ian reminisces. “For me, this encapsulated the profound sense of selflessness and hope that drives these remarkable women.”
Making a difference together
Central Egg Bank is committed to providing egg donations to Australia and supporting our international donors. Ian’s visit showed us how genuine and passionate our Ukrainian donors are, reaffirming that we are on the right path in helping our hopeful recipients.
“Throughout my visit, I was continually impressed by the Ukrainian donors’ dedication,” Ian gushes. “Their desire to help other women have children, and their willingness to eventually meet the child and recipient family, speaks volumes about their generosity and warmth.”
That’s why we’re proud to be the bridge between Australians and these extraordinary Ukrainian donors. Our donors’ loyalty and kindness highlight the worldwide spirit of giving and our shared hope to help build families.
Ian couldn’t agree more. “In the meantime, donors tell me they still want to donate to give the joy of motherhood to others, to create more children at a time when children are being lost in the fighting, and to just do something good for the world when there is so much horror.”
Building families together
At Central Egg Bank, we’re deeply moved by our Ukrainian donors’ incredible empathy and goodwill. Their giving spirit helps yearning families in Australia. If you’re considering egg donation or want to learn more about our programs, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
We understand that starting a family journey can be exciting and overwhelming, and we’re committed to making this process as smooth and supportive as possible. Our team is dedicated to providing you with the care and information you need to make informed decisions. Contact Central Egg Bank to discover how we can help you take the next step towards becoming a parent.
