11 April 2018

Laura & Liam’s Story

For Liam and Laura McCaffrey from Milford Haven in West Wales, becoming parents to Owen, now aged two, involved a long journey in many ways, from a serious illness through to Liam’s sperm travelling thousands of miles to help them achieve their dream.

Liam, 31, and Laura, 29, met at university and very shortly after getting married moved to the US, where Liam was taking up a new job. But no sooner had they arrived than Liam received the devastating news that he had lymphoma, a blood cancer which was already very advanced.

Liam's story

After chemotherapy, I was scheduled for a bone marrow transplant. And on top of all of that, I was told by the specialist that my fertility would be affected. I was advised to freeze my sperm immediately if I wanted children later on, as my sperm would probably be damaged by the treatment.

Laura and I had always talked about having children at some point, so I went ahead with the procedure, which gave me eight vials of sperm banked and ready to use at some point in the future. It was tough because at this stage, whilst I knew that this type of cancer responded well to treatment, there were no guarantees of success. We just had to stick together and keep our faith and focus on a future where we could one day defrost the sperm and try and start a family.

The treatment lasted for around eight months. We were living near Oklahoma at the time and the bone marrow treatment alone involved a six-hour round trip on a regular basis. I was also dealt another blow while all this was happening when I found out the company that I had moved to in the US to join was filing for bankruptcy.

So, when I got the confirmation from the doctors that I was in full remission, it was a relatively easy decision to leave the US and head back to the UK to be with our family.

"There was no chance of conceiving and the frozen sperm thousands of miles away was our only option”

Over a year later, Laura and I started talking again about starting a family and so we were referred to the London Women’s Clinic Wales to talk about our options. The first step was to see how my own sperm had been affected by the treatment - and unfortunately, it wasn’t good news. There was no chance of conceiving and the frozen sperm thousands of miles away was our only option.

To avoid any risks, we decided to have half the eight vials sent across. So, all the way from the clinic in Oklahoma the four vials of sperm travelled thousands of miles to Wales to be hand-delivered to the clinic perfectly intact and in time for Laura to begin taking the medication for the IVF treatment. It was such an enormous relief to know that it was here and we could now just get on with it.

Laura responded well to treatment and we managed to get three good embryos. Two were transferred and less than two weeks later we found out she was pregnant - and on our wedding anniversary. We were over the moon, but cautious too. I think because we’d been through so much to get to this point we were both nervous about getting too excited or complacent, and I think it took Laura a while to feel more comfortable. She took many more pregnancy tests after that first one, just to check.

Looking back it was a long and hard journey for us, and not just in terms of air miles. We’d been through so much in such a short space of time and faced uncertainties all the way through. Coping with my illness together and coming out of it intact was traumatic and stressful. We’d both been through a lot more in our 20s than most people - and we also had to deal with the fact that somewhere in this journey the IVF might not work.

But fortunately for us, it did work and we now have an amazing little boy to show for it. And, two years on, he’s definitely a handful, with bags of energy and a real chatterbox. When he’s old enough we’ll tell him how he got here, including just how many miles he had travelled before he was even born.

All of our blog posts are written, edited, or produced by the London Women's Clinic Content Team. This is a collaboration between our expert writers, health editors, and the leading researchers and senior doctors at our Harley Street clinic.

‘We started our IVF process with LWC around a year ago. It felt very daunting and a long road ahead, and the entire team were so supportive and explained everything so clearly. When we were undergoing the egg retreival and transfer, the team were so kind and we felt really looked after. We have now welcomed our little girl and after years of trying, we wouldn't have gotten here without the support and guidance given by LWC. Thank you all!’

Alice Maker

22 January 2026, LWC London Bridge

‘Dr Suraya made our appointment a really enjoyable experience. She made us both feel at ease and was so knowledgeable throughout the scan. Dr Suraya is a real asset to LWC’

Liz Troup

22 January 2026, LWC London Bridge

‘I received excellent care from all the staff at London Women's Clinic, we felt very welcomed as a same sex couple. We are so grateful to have been able to have our wonderful daughter. I would definitely recommend the clinic to anyone starting fertility treatment!’

Megan Knox

21 January 2026, LWC Canterbury

‘I've recently completed a round of egg freezing with London Women's Clinic harrow and I couldn't recommend them as a clinic more. Carla and Ana-Maria quite literally held my hand throughout the entire process, making me feel really relaxed and supported. It's made such a stressful experience super positive and if anyone is thinking of using them, I'd absolutely recommend them!’

Brooke Day

19 January 2026, LWC Harrow

‘I undertook Kind IVF, which even though is nurse led as opposed to consultant led, the care, professionalism and knowledge is there. The nurses consult with consultants during your protocol, so the difference really is you see the nurses instead. The medication doses are less and less medication, but this doesn't mean it will be less effective, it is an option worth exploring, as the cost is less and can open the door when more traditional ivf is out of reach. I am currently pregnant having gone through the kind ivf protocol one time.’

APINTOF MEGAN

19 January 2026, LWC London Bridge

‘Exceptional service from start to finish. Highly recommend Harley street team for looking after us. Absolutely loved your service and care. Thank you London woman's clinic :)’

Anh Nguyen

19 January 2026, LWC Harley Street

‘The team at the Cambridge LWC branch have been incredibly supportive, encouraging and helpful throughout our journey, and have been with us through the ups and downs. It's a very safe and inclusive space, and we feel very well cared for. We can't recommend them enough! Sarah and Jacqui’

Sarah Peace

16 January 2026, LWC Cambridge

‘We will be forever grateful to London Women's Clinic Bromley for helping us achieve what once felt impossible -- welcoming our beautiful, healthy baby boy in November 2025. Our IVF journey was emotional, overwhelming at times, and deeply personal, but from the very first appointment we were met with nothing but kindness, compassion, and unwavering support. Every step was clearly explained, we were kept fully informed throughout, and there was always someone available to answer our questions or simply reassure us when we needed it most. We never once felt like just another patient -- we felt truly cared for. Dr Malini, Sarah, Nicky (Nikita) and Dom were exceptional and will always hold a very special place in our hearts. Their warmth, patience, and genuine kindness made the process so much easier to cope with. They made us feel safe, comfortable, and supported during some of the most vulnerable moments of our lives. Every nurse, embryologist, and member of staff we encountered was wonderful. We honestly cannot recommend London Women's Clinic Bromley enough to anyone struggling with fertility or facing similar challenges. The dedication, empathy, and expertise of this team has changed our lives forever. We hope to take the clinic up on their offer to visit with our little miracle, who we are endlessly thankful they helped bring into this world. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Lucy & Sayed ’

Lucy morgan

16 January 2026, LWC Bromley

‘My journey with egg freezing in the LWC has been amazing. I had started consultations with another provider before but didn't feel comfortable there, and I'm SO GLAD I listened to my instinct and went to this clinic! The whole team was so knowledgeable and supportive throughout, but also just lovely. I would recommend the clinic, ESPECIALLY if you are worried about the process and feel emotional, the understanding and support here is way beyond what I was hoping for!!!’

Charlotte M

15 January 2026, LWC London Bridge

‘My journey with the LWC in London Bridge + Harley Street has been outstanding. The team is so lovely, I felt welcomed and understood from the first to the last call and through every appointment in between. I would recommend it to every friend!’

Charlotte M

15 January 2026, LWC Harley Street

‘Nicki has a beautiful and excellent personality, she was so kind, polite and sweet. I felt so happy after the scan . Bless her. Right woman for the job.’

Steave Oyinloye

15 January 2026, LWC Bromley

‘Nikita was fab - really put me at ease with my scan and able to relax. Feel very supported’

S S

15 January 2026, LWC Bromley

‘Just had my scan with Nikki and she was very informative and made me feel very comfortable.’

Lisa

15 January 2026, LWC Bromley

‘Nikita was excellent and mindful during our initial scan/consultation explained everything well.’

james harris

15 January 2026, LWC Bromley

‘Myself and partner have had a lovely experience with LWC Canterbury they are thoughtful and caring. Always made us feel comfort and welcome even through the difficulties that we have faced on our journey, however we will be forever grateful for all they have done and are contiuing to do.’

Natasha Elliott

14 January 2026, LWC Canterbury

‘This was my first fertility treatment, and I cannot express enough how thankful I am to have chosen LWC and to have been treated at the Harrow clinic. I would highly recommend it to anyone considering starting their fertility journey! From the start, I appreciated how transparent the admin team was about all the costs involved at every stage, giving clear ranges when the decision depended on how the treatment would go. I am also extremely grateful for their support in helping with securing financing, even when I decided to move forward at short notice. They took the time to schedule calls to answer my questions, and I truly felt listened to and cared for as a patient. At the Harrow clinic, I experienced an exceptionally caring and positive environment. All the nurses were highly professional while also being incredibly comforting and supportive. I would especially like to thank Ana Maria, who was there throughout the process, offering practical advice based on her own experience, a hug when needed, and making the entire journey feel much more like home. I would also like to thank Carla for her positivity, high energy, and encouragement during difficult moments, and Laura for her empowering and reassuring approach to the injections. Dr Goswami was also outstanding--extremely professional and clear in her advice. She carefully adjusted the treatment to aim for the best possible outcome while prioritising safety and minimising risks. I am also very grateful for the support groups organised by the clinic. Through these, I met incredibly brave and empowered women and couples. Sharing this journey with some of them made the experience far more bearable and positive. Thank you to everyone at the Harrow clinic and LWC for your incredible support!!’

Marina Riabiz

14 January 2026, LWC Harrow

‘We had a very positive experience at this IVF clinic and would highly recommend it. From the very beginning, we felt well supported and looked after throughout the entire journey. A special thank you to Safak, our patient coordinator, who was incredibly helpful and always very quick to respond. We would also like to thank Princess, the receptionist, as well as the Italian receptionist whose name we unfortunately don't remember, for always being kind and welcoming. We are extremely grateful to Dr Suraya, who performed many of our scans and was exceptional throughout the process, and to Dr Rao, who followed our journey step by step with great care, professionalism and attention. Finally, a big thank you to all the nurses, especially Hannah,Ella and Paige, for their support, kindness and professionalism. Overall, we felt very well cared for and supported, and we truly recommend this clinic to anyone considering IVF!’

Alicia Gioia

12 January 2026, LWC London Bridge

‘The reception staff are amazing nothing is to much trouble. Always answered any queries we had. The whole team were brilliant from our first initial appointment too our very last. They made us feel so comfortable.’

Rachel Powell

12 January 2026, LWC Bristol

‘We don't know where to begin, this place truly is wonderful. So so comforting and welcoming. Every single staff member went above and beyond and really felt like family. We couldn't be more appreciative of everyone who helped us on our way to creat our little one, who is cooking away nicely at 20 weeks. From choosing a sperm donor to my egg collection and then to getting my wife pregnant with the embryos a few months later, it was so stress free and we felt supported every single step of the way. We can't thank all the lovely wonderful ladies at the Brentwood clinic enough for what they have helped us achieve- and of course the amazing people at the Harley street clinic for doing the procedures who were just as welcoming! Thank you all so so much, we can't wait to bring our little man to meet you all when we are ready to try for baby number 2 xxxxx’

molly bannister

9 January 2026, LWC Brentwood

‘Following a seminar I attended at LWC, I arranged a consultation with Dr. Naware who specialises in fertility for women over 40. It was a refreshing experience. Dr. Naware is empathetic, kind and thorough. The follow up from the clinic was excellent, with Safak, Patient Coordinator, providing regular updates.’

A Patel

9 January 2026, LWC London Bridge

‘We are incredibly grateful to London Women's Clinic - Canterbury for their outstanding care and support throughout our IVF journey. Both the Canterbury and Bromley teams surrounded us with genuine kindness, understanding, and constant attention. We always felt listened to and truly cared for, and the level of professionalism was exceptional at every stage. Thanks to their dedication and hard work, we had the chance to welcome our beautiful little daughter into the world. We cannot recommend this clinic highly enough.’

Natalia Twardochleb

8 January 2026, LWC Canterbury

‘We can't recommend the London Women's Clinic enough. My partner and I are a same-sex female couple and are currently pregnant with our baby due in July -- after only two attempts. From the moment we chose the London Women's Clinic, the experience was incredible. The Harrow branch in particular felt so welcoming and supportive. Carla Lang, Ana-Maria, Laura Adagbon, and Dr Gill were absolutely amazing -- accommodating, kind, friendly, and genuinely caring. They went above and beyond throughout our entire journey, even responding to emails outside of working hours, which meant so much to us. We had previously completed blood tests and scans at another clinic but didn't feel it was the right fit. The London Women's Clinic didn't push us to repeat everything unnecessarily -- they accepted our previous tests, which really showed that they are not money-driven. On that note, their pricing is also very affordable compared to other clinics. Dr Gill is incredibly thorough and precise, taking so many factors into account when planning treatment, which gave us complete confidence. Our insemination was carried out at the Harley Street London Women's Clinic by Dr Yogita Date, who was equally wonderful. She made us feel comfortable, supported, and genuinely wished us luck during the procedure. Overall, this clinic felt more like family than a medical service. Even now, they continue to check in on us and our pregnancy, which says everything about the level of care they provide. We are beyond grateful and wouldn't hesitate to recommend the London Women's Clinic to anyone starting their fertility journey.’

Maisie Thomas

8 January 2026, LWC Harrow

‘The team at LWC Harley Street have been outstanding. They have supported my wife and I through our IVF journey at every step, keeping us informed and making the entire journey feel seamless. A special thanks to Dr Serra, Nurse Mimi, Vita and the rest of the LWC team that have helped us along the way. We are now 20 weeks into our pregnancy and LWC have continued to follow up to ensure all is well. A big thank you once again and we highly recommend LWC Harley Street to anyone considering IVF.’

Keyur Nakum

29 December 2025, LWC Harley Street

‘Cannot fault the ladies here at all. I felt so so welcome and looked after during the visit and consultation. The nurses were so compassionate and lovely, and I really felt like I was being listened to and understood. Would recommend to anyone looking to start a fertility journey/make some enquiries into their fertility healthxx’

Ellie Brown

19 December 2025, LWC Canterbury

‘Myself and my partners experience with LWC in Canterbury has been AMAZING! They have been so supportive and friendly throughout our whole IVF journey and gave us no stress throughout any part of it. Would very highly recommend as our first round of ISCI IVF worked ’

Mia Summers

19 December 2025, LWC Canterbury