Fertility Support Community launches ‘IVF Fund’

Local NGO, Fertility Support Community (FSC), has launched its ‘IVF Fund’ aimed at raising funds to financially aid people who require IVF treatment.

The fund was launched during ‘A Night of Hope' gala dinner held on Wednesday night at Meeruma Hotel, in conjunction with World Fertility Day. The fund was launched by Mariyam Sheneen; an individual who has provided support for the NGO since its inception.

The gala dinner was officiated by Deputy High Commissioner of India to the Maldives Pooja Tillu, and Dr. Sankalp Singh who specializes in infertility.

Speaking during the ceremony, Deputy High Commissioner Tillu said that India has provided assistance to further the Maldivian health sector as part of the friendly relations established between the two nations.

In this regard, the Deputy High Commissioner underscored assistance provided by the Indian government, and Indian private hospitals to enhance the Maldivian health sector. She gave assurances that the Indian High Commission will continue to provide assistance for FSC in their undertakings in supporting people facing infertility issues.

Dr. Singh, who also spoke at the ceremony, said that he has provided care for a large number of Maldivians regarding infertility issues over the past 14 or so years. Speaking in the capacity of a medical doctor, he highlighted the importance of mental and other kinds of support for people seeking treatment for infertility issues, in their important journey to become parents.

He noted that some health complications lengthen the journey for some people.

“I have seen a couple who had 13 miscarriages, and 13 failed IVFs. But their renewed hope every time is why they have children today,” he added.

FSC’s Founder Asha Hussain said that the purpose of launching such a fund is to provide financial assistance for persons requiring IVF, that lacks the financial capacity for it. Each year, IVF treatment for one couple will be covered through this fund.

During last night’s ceremony, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was executed between FSC and India’s Yaami Fertility Clinic to provide opportunity for additional two couples to undergo IVF treatment The MoU was signed by FSC’s Founder, President Asha Hussain and Yami Clinic’s Founder, Director Dr. Sankalp Singh.

Eligibility requirements for IVF Fund included being a Maldivian couple over 25 years of age, who have been married for at least two years.

Last night’s ceremony also saw some members of FSC share their infertility stories. A skit depicting the thoughts and feelings over a woman suffering from infertility issues was also showcased at the ceremony.

FSC was founded in January 2021 to raise public awareness regarding fertility issues and the available treatment options, and provide psychological support to people with fertility issues.

The NGO began with regular peer-to-peer support group sessions, and went on to expand activities with various sessions with the assistance of both local and international fertility experts. The organization now has over 250 active members across Maldives.