I am a 26-year-old individual, mentally disabled, grappling with the consequences of a decision made in a moment of deep grief and despair. I chose to undergo a vasectomy after experiencing the profound loss of a stillborn child. An angel, whose memory still clutches at the heart, intensifying the longing to bear another child.

I, like many others, have a deep-seated wish to become a parent again, but face insurmountable obstacles due to a lack of coverage for fertility treatments in our insurance plans. My Emblem Health VIP GOLD PLUS Medicare Advantage Plan, like many other policies across the country, does not cover treatments like sperm aspiration, IVF, or other fertility procedures, which should, in fairness, be considered necessary.

Fertility treatments in the United States are exorbitantly priced making them out of reach for the majority. The American Society for Reproductive Medicine reports that the average cost of an IVF cycle in the U.S is $12,400, a price often insurmountable for those on disability.

The lack of fertility coverage by Medicare and other insurance providers presents an unfair barrier for disabled individuals, and others who cannot afford these costly treatments, to build their families. This barrier discriminates based on physical capability and financial status, denying many their dream to start or expand their families.

It is time for us as a society to advocate for equality in reproductive health. Let's urge Medicare to alter their policy and mandate coverage for fertility treatments. It is vital to ensure that every individual, irrespective of disability and financial status, has access to procedures that would aid them in building their family.

This request is not just for me but for all who share in the desire to cherish parenity. Sign this petition to mandate fertility treatment coverage by Medicare for disabled people, and grant us the chance to experience the joy of parenthood, the joy we deeply yearn for.