My name is Alana Salazar. I am a registered nurse, living in New York, with my wonderful wife, Jordan, and our 6-year-old son. Our journey to grow our family has been filled with both hope and heartache, and I want to share our story in the hope of receiving a grant that would significantly impact our lives. When Jordan and I decided to start a family over six years ago, it was one of the best decisions we ever made. Our son, with his bright smile and boundless energy, has brought so much joy into our lives. He often expresses his desire for a sibling, and I know he would make an incredible big brother. It’s this dream of expanding our family that drives me to apply for this grant. However, the past year has been particularly challenging for us. We began our journey to conceive again with the hope that Jordan would carry our next child. We poured our savings into two IUI cycles, filled with hope and anticipation. Unfortunately, both attempts were unsuccessful. The emotional toll was immense, bringing feelings of sadness and hopelessness that were difficult to bear. Each setback weighed heavily on our hearts, and the financial strain added another layer of stress to our already challenging situation. Receiving this grant would mean the world to me and my family. It would cover the costs of sperm vials and the IUI procedures, allowing us to continue our journey toward bringing another child into our home. I often reflect on my own experience as an only child and how much I longed for siblings. I want to give my son the opportunity to grow up with a brother or sister, sharing in the laughter and experiences that come with siblinghood. This opportunity is not just about growing our family; it’s about creating an environment filled with love, support, and shared memories. I genuinely do not know who or where I would be without my son, and I am committed to doing everything I can to ensure he has the family he dreams of. Thank you for considering our story. It is a journey filled with hope, resilience, and an unwavering desire to provide a loving home for another child. How we'll use the funds: It would cover the cost of labs, testing, sperm vials and the IUI procedures.