I Delayed My Dreams for Years—Here’s What a Heart Attack Taught Me About Taking Control of My Life and Fertility

Have you ever put your dreams on hold because life just seemed too busy?

I recently came across an impactful article from Business Insider titled I delayed retiring for years. My husband's heart attack taught me we could not take time for granted. It tells Kim Hunter-Borst’s story — a healthcare professional who postponed retirement because she tied her identity to her job, only to have a sudden heart attack in her husband snap her into the reality that time is precious and unpredictable.

Reading Kim’s story struck a chord with me. Not because I’m thinking about retirement, but because it reminded me of how often we delay starting the life we want—especially when it comes to having kids.

Why do we wait to begin our fertility journey?

Maybe it’s the stress of daily life, financial worries, or simply the fear of the unknown. I’ve talked to so many people who feel overwhelmed by the clinical barriers or the intimidating costs of traditional fertility treatments. Like Kim, some have put their dreams on pause, hoping for a “better time” that seems to never come.

But what if there was a gentler, more empowering way to take control?

That’s where innovations like at-home insemination kits come into play. For those who want to grow their families on their own terms, these kits offer privacy, convenience, and affordability.

Take MakeAMom, for example. They offer discreet, reusable home insemination kits designed for various needs—from low motility sperm to users with sensitivities like vaginismus. Their success rate is an impressive 67%, making the dream more attainable for many.

Imagine this: You don’t have to wait for countless clinical appointments or break the bank on disposable supplies. Instead, you can try at your own pace, in the comfort and privacy of home. It’s a game-changer in fertility empowerment.

But beyond technology and tools, Kim’s story reminds us why the emotional piece matters just as much. Life’s unpredictability—whether a health scare, a sudden change, or simply aging—teaches us that there’s no perfect time. The “right moment” might never show up unless you make it.

So how do you navigate this? Here are a few takeaways inspired both by Kim’s experience and the growing world of at-home fertility options:

  • Prioritize your emotional wellness. Fertility journeys can be a rollercoaster. Surround yourself with support, whether it’s friends, partners, or communities who get it.
  • Educate yourself on your options. Whether it’s understanding sperm motility or sensitivity issues, find solutions tailored to your needs. Resources like MakeAMom provide clear info and practical products.
  • Embrace control where you can. At-home insemination kits put you in the driver’s seat, letting you experiment on your own terms without anxiety or judgment.
  • Don’t wait for life to “settle.” Life is messy, unpredictable, and sometimes fragile. The best time to try is when you feel ready.

If Kim Hunter-Borst’s story teaches us anything, it’s that time is a gift we can’t take for granted. Whether it’s retiring, starting a family, or chasing any dream, the clock is ticking quietly in the background.

So, here’s my question to you: What is one dream or goal you’ve been postponing? And what’s one small step you can take today toward making it real?

If starting your family is one of those dreams, exploring discreet, effective, and supportive at-home infertility solutions might just be that step. You can find more about these innovative options and how they can work for you at MakeAMom’s resource site.

Life is short, and unpredictable—so why wait to embrace your journey?

I’d love to hear your thoughts or stories about taking charge of life’s unexpected moments. Share in the comments below and let’s support each other in making dreams happen, one brave step at a time.

Author

Priya Chadha

Hello, I’m Priya, a reproductive health journalist and IVF warrior. As someone who has experienced the highs and lows of fertility treatments firsthand, I’m committed to delivering honest, practical advice to support others’ journeys. In my downtime, I enjoy painting and hiking with my rescue dog.