How a Teen’s Tribute to His Mom Reminds Us All About Fertility, Family, and Hope

Posted on 21 July 2025 by Elena Moreno — 3 min

Have you ever witnessed a moment so raw, so beautifully human, that it sticks with you forever?

Just recently, 17-year-old Matthew Schaefer, the number one NHL draft pick for the New York Islanders, honored his late mother during the draft ceremony. His mother, who passed away 16 months ago from breast cancer, was the heart of his world. Watching him pay tribute, you couldn’t help but feel the profound mix of pain, love, and hope.

This story isn't just about hockey or a young athlete’s success. It’s about family, loss, and the enduring desire to create and nurture life — themes that resonate deeply with those on the fertility journey.

Loss and Fertility: An Unexpected Connection

Losing a loved one, especially a parent, can shake the very foundation of our lives. For many, the grief shapes not only their emotional health but also their dreams and plans for the future — including starting or growing a family.

The pain Matthew expressed mirrors what many individuals and couples face when dealing with fertility challenges or loss. Whether the loss is of a loved one or the loss of a pregnancy or fertility hope, it impacts mental health and resilience.

But here’s the thing: grief doesn’t have to define us. It can also be a catalyst — a source of motivation and strength.

How Stories Like Matthew's Inspire Hope

Matthew Schaefer’s tribute reminds us of the importance of honoring our journey — the memories, the struggles, and the dreams.

Honoring those we love fuels our strength.
Sharing our pain creates community and understanding.
Holding on to hope keeps the dream of parenthood alive.

If you’re navigating fertility challenges, remember that your story matters. Every step — the setbacks, the hopeful moments, the decisions — is part of a uniquely human experience.

Navigating Fertility with Compassion and Innovation

For many, at-home insemination has become a meaningful way to take control of their fertility journey in a private, comfortable space. Companies like MakeAMom have revolutionized this process by offering well-designed, cost-effective insemination kits. These kits are thoughtfully tailored for a variety of needs, whether dealing with low motility sperm, sensitivities like vaginismus, or requiring cryopreserved sperm options.

What’s truly inspiring is that MakeAMom reports an average success rate of 67% — a powerful reminder that hope is very much alive, even outside traditional clinical settings.

Why the Journey Matters as Much as the Destination

Whether you’re mourning a loss or dreaming of a future child, the journey shapes who you are. And stories like Matthew’s remind us that even in moments of deep sorrow, there’s room to honor the past while embracing the future.

I encourage you to watch Matthew Schaefer’s heartfelt tribute — you can find it here: New York Islanders NHL Draft Tribute. It’s a powerful reminder of love’s enduring impact.

Final Thoughts

If you’re on a fertility journey or coping with loss, please know you're not alone. Lean into your community, seek resources that feel right for you, and remember that hope and healing often come in gentle, unexpected ways.

What’s your story? How do you honor the loved ones who inspire your path? Let’s keep this conversation going — share your thoughts in the comments below.

Because sometimes, the strongest family bonds are forged through loss, hope, and the unyielding desire to create life.

This post was inspired by the touching story of Matthew Schaefer’s draft tribute and supported by insights into at-home fertility options from MakeAMom.