Carolynn Dube, Executive Director Fertility Matters Canada (Photo: submitted)
Over six million Canadians are affected by fertility issues.
A first of its kind virtual bike, run, walk event is planned for Moncton based organization Fertility Matters Canada.
Executive Director Carolynn Dubé says they will hold a Fertility Matters 6K from October 15th to October 17th, “All in the name of fertility and increasing awareness about what fertility looks like in Canada, raising awareness and giving a voice to the stories of the people who are travelling the fertility journey or who have travelled that more difficult path to parenthood.”
Dubé says they chose the six kilometres distance because it represents the six million Canadians affected..
“There are many barriers to accessing fertility care in Canada. This virtual event allows everyone to have a voice and to participate in a way that feels empowering to them,” Dubé says. “We are committed to finding new ways to not only support those actively seeking fertility care, but to provide opportunities for everyone impacted by fertility to be part of the change, which includes those supporting loved ones.”
In vitro fertilization treatment can cost over $20, 000 per cycle.
“Not every province in Canada has a fertility centre. If you live in Newfoundland for example and you do IVF, you have to leave and go to another province to access the care that you need. Not every province in Canada provides financial assistance or private funding.”
Fertility Matters Canada also plans to launch a new National Advocacy Strategy, aimed at levelling access to costly services. All proceeds from the event will go towards ramping up this initiative, heightening public pressure on provinces to ensure access is equitable.
Fertility Matters 6K Chair Emily Getz says, “It’s time for everyone to join the conversation around fertility, not just those who have had to endure personally. The more we all talk, the chances of normalizing common fertility struggles will increase, which in turn will impact how society supports those who need to access care.”
Canadians can participate in the upcoming event by signing up as an individual, joining a team or donating.
