Jemma and Clayton James went through multiple fertility treatments, various procedures, and a devastating miscarriage before they were blessed with their daughter, Ella.
Aside from dealing with the emotional strain of unsuccessful attempts and disappointments, the couple also faced added stress due to Clayton’s job.
Clayton works as a miner on a fly-in, fly-out (FIFO) roster in Western Australia, a common arrangement that involves workers being away from their families for extended periods, often days or weeks at a stretch.
But for many couples, there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
“It’s the nicest thing for patients to say I couldn’t have had my family without you,” Ragunath said.
For Jemma and Clayton, the journey was worth the wait but required them to lean on their family and friends to withstand the challenges along the way.
After her experience, Jemma’s advice to other FIFO couples is not to keep their struggles in the dark.
“I know a lot of people like to keep it very private but my biggest thing is to tell people around you,” she said.Â
“You need that support system outside of each other.
“Being open about it can actually be a positive.”
The Red Nose Grief and Loss Support Line is available 24/7 for anyone affected by the loss of a pregnancy, stillbirth or death of a baby or child on 1300 308 307.
