Annette Bolton

“I feel extremely privileged to take part in each patient’s journey, from the start to the end of their treatment, providing much-needed medical care, as well as that supportive environment that they need. This extends to making sure each patient has the space and time during their appointment to ask and understand everything that is happening. Sometimes this means an appointment may overrun, and I ask each patient to bear with me because I give the same opportunities to everyone I see to be fully informed and comfortable with what is happening to them.”

“I love it when our patients return as parents, bringing their new babies to meet everyone at the clinic.  It’s such a time of joy and rejoicing and it often provides a real context for our families, as they recognise the journey they’ve been on, and how far they’ve come.”

“There are lots of pre and post-natal support groups for expectant and new parents but very little for those who are experiencing fertility issues or having fertility treatment.

We identified a real gap locally and recognised that many people can feel isolated and alone when they realise that becoming pregnant and having a baby is just not happening for them. The group is just starting, and we aim to be informal and a place of welcome and support. We plan on inviting guest speakers and to be somewhere where people can come for information and advice as they evaluate their options, go through treatment, meet others in a similar situation and work out how to move forwards.”