Big Miracles: The heartfelt journeys of those chasing their dream of a baby

Angie Kent, 34, QLD
OCCUPATION: TV Personality
FERTILITY CHALLENGES: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), Endometriosis, Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)
DOCTOR: Dr. Kath Whitton

TV personality, former Bachelorette and Space Invaders’ upcycle queen, Angie Kent, is on a solo mission to become a mum. At 34, single, and facing fertility hurdles like PCOS, endometriosis, and PMDD, Angie is taking control of her future with IVF, hoping to create and freeze embryos for her dream family.

Known for being indecisive, Angie finds picking a sperm donor daunting, but her biggest challenge is her health. Her chronic conditions, which so many women can relate to, may make producing high-quality eggs especially tough – a concern shared by her doctors.

(Image: Channel 9)

Anna, 39 – VIC
OCCUPATION: Retail/PR Manager
FERTILITY CHALLENGE: Low Ovarian Reserve
DOCTOR: Dr. Daniel Lantsberg

After marrying her high school sweetheart at 26, Anna thought she had her fairytale ending. But when her marriage ended, she found herself single at 39 with her biological clock ticking. Determined to become a mum, Anna decided to take the solo route to parenthood.

Though single, Anna isn’t doing this alone. Her tight-knit group of girlfriends is with her every step of the way – attending appointments, offering support, and anxiously waiting for results alongside her.

With her endless optimism, Anna has embraced IVF with open arms, even as she faces tough setbacks. Her unwavering positivity shines through, making her journey all the more inspiring.

(Image: Channel 9)

Alicia, 38, & Chris, 43 – NSW
OCCUPATION: Alicia: Recruitment; Chris: MD of a Recruitment Firm
FERTILITY CHALLENGE: Stage 4 Endometriosis
DOCTOR: Prof. Gavin Sacks

Alicia and Chris are successful Sydneysiders who admit, “It seems like we have it all, but we’re missing the most important thing.” Alicia is warm and emotional, while Chris, a straightforward Irish/English expat, balances her energy with his calm demeanor. The pair met in a pub seven years ago and have been married for three.

Alicia’s stage 4 endometriosis makes conceiving and carrying a pregnancy extremely challenging. She’s fallen pregnant twice but miscarried both times, and the pain of these losses weighs heavily on their IVF journey.

As if the emotional toll of treatment wasn’t enough, Chris faces a family emergency during a critical moment. Just as they’re about to find out if their embryo transfer is successful, Chris has to fly to the UK to say goodbye to his ailing father.

(Image: Channel 9)

Billie, 29 & Rob, 35 with Shannen, 32 – NSW
OCCUPATION: Billie: Cleaner; Rob: Labourer; Shannen: School Canteen Manager
FERTILITY CHALLENGE: Billie was born without a uterus
DOCTOR: Dr. Peter Illingworth

From Sydney’s Western Suburbs comes a heartwarming story of sisterly love and a medical miracle.

Billie was born with Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser syndrome (MRKH), a rare condition meaning she has no uterus. While she can produce eggs, she’s unable to carry a baby herself – a devastating reality for Billie and her husband Rob, who dream of becoming parents.

Enter Billie’s sister, Shannen. Already a mum to four, Shannen didn’t hesitate to step in as their surrogate. Her selfless decision to carry their baby turned an impossible hurdle into a hopeful journey for Billie and Rob.

(Image: Channel 9)

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Christie, 33 & Perry, 40 – VIC
OCCUPATION: Christie: People & Operations Manager; Perry: Landscaper
FERTILITY CHALLENGE: Unexplained Infertility
DOCTOR: Dr. Kokum Jayasinghe

English expats Christie and Perry spent two years facing the frustration of unexplained infertility. Everything changed when surgery uncovered inflammation in Christie’s uterus – a breakthrough that finally led to the moment they’d been dreaming of: a positive pregnancy test.

We first met this couple in season two, and now in season three, we’re back as Christie navigates pregnancy and prepares for their baby’s arrival. While she hopes for an “all natural” birth, her labour takes an unexpected turn, delivering the most dramatic and heart-stopping moments of their entire journey to parenthood.

(Image: Channel 9)

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Ilina, 36 & Nick, 29 – NSW
OCCUPATION: Ilina: Personal Assistant; Nick: Concreter
FERTILITY CHALLENGE: Endometriosis, Removed Tubes, Low Egg Count
DOCTOR: Prof. Gavin Sacks

To afford fertility treatments, Ilina and Nick live with Nick’s parents in Western Sydney, surrounded by the overwhelming support of their big Macedonian families.

Returning from season two, where Ilina underwent an egg retrieval and got seven eggs, this season follows the couple as they continue their treatment journey.

Ilina is one of the toughest fertility cases doctors have encountered. With severe endometriosis, multiple surgeries, and a very low ovarian reserve, her path to motherhood isn’t easy. But her determination, hope, and heartache make viewers cheer her on every step of the way.

(Image: Channel 9)

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Kaiti, 37 & Sally, 34 – NSW
OCCUPATION: Kaiti: Police Detective; Sally: High School Teacher
FERTILITY CHALLENGE: Same-Sex Couple & Multiple Miscarriages
DOCTOR: Dr. Peter Illingworth / Dr. Dave Listijono

Kaiti and Sally are a married couple from Dubbo, passionate about their hometown and at home in the bush, not the city. Their journey to parenthood has been tough, marked by multiple miscarriages.

Living in rural NSW with limited access to fertility services, they first tried home insemination with donor sperm. Kaiti got pregnant twice but sadly miscarried both times.

In their first round of treatment, they make the most of being a same-sex couple, both undergoing egg retrieval.

(Image: Channel 9)

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Sheila, 47 & Tyson, 48 – NSW
OCCUPATION: Sheila: Author; Tyson: Personal Trainer
FERTILITY CHALLENGE: Age-related Infertility
DOCTOR: Dr. Kath Whitton

We first met Sheila and Tyson in season one, where their path to parenthood started with heartbreak. After a whirlwind romance in their late forties, they decided to try for a baby. But age-related infertility made their journey difficult. Sheila’s 11 frozen eggs from when she was 38 didn’t result in a pregnancy, and six more rounds with her 45-year-old eggs also failed.

Their story continued in season two, where, after seven failed rounds, they faced a tough choice: use donor eggs. Sheila struggled with the idea of her child not sharing her genes, but her desire to become a mother pushed her forward. They decided to buy donor eggs from the USA, boosting her chances from 2% to 50%. Finally, Sheila fell pregnant.

In season three, their joy is clear as they approach the third trimester – only to face a medical emergency that threatens the pregnancy. After so much struggle, they’re in for a turbulent ride to the finish line.

Where are they now?

Sheila and Tyson welcomed their baby boy, Phoenix Denali Salijevic into the world on April 11, 2024.

“Our lives are changed forever. I now understand what instant unconditional love feels like. It has been an emotional roller coaster which we knew it would be – but nothing can really prepare you for one of lives greatest transitions. We are in a bubble and are emerging slowly and will reply to your loving and generous messages. Thank you all for following our journey and for your open hearts. We did it! I have pinched my self everyday for the last 6 days. Phoenix is our miracle come true,” Sheila shared to Instagram.

The couple shared their pregnancy news to Instagram after their son’s arrival into the world.

“We can’t believe our dreams have come true after waiting for so long and we are so grateful for the miracle of our son,” says Sheila.

“We are on the countdown now to delivery and we are both so nervous and excited at the same time. Our life is about to change in the most miraculous way.”

Sheila feels like their story connected with many people who watched Big Miracles.

“It has been incredible sharing our journey with the audience. The outpouring of emotions and DMs and even gifts has touched us. I think a lot of the audience resonated with our pain. Perhaps we even allowed them to acknowledge their own pain, which has helped heal them a little,” she says.

“Tyson and I feel truly blessed that we were able to have our entire journey documented.”

(Image: Channel 9)

Samantha, 35, and Jason, 38

Season 2 storyline:

We met Samantha and Jason in series one of Big Miracles. Falling pregnant was difficult for Sam due to severe endometriosis. After two unsuccessful IVF attempts, Sam became pregnant with her last remaining embryo. Sadly, a dating scan revealed a miscarriage and the couple were heartbroken.

The couple underwent one more round of IVF, leading to their miracle pregnancy. In series 2, we continue to follow their journey as they anticipate the birth of their baby, fulfilling their family and granting their daughter, Georgia, a sibling.

Where are they now? The couple have welcomed their son, Romain.

“Romain is growing so fast, he is one in May (2024), so we feel like time has absolutely flown. He is the happiest little boy, only upset if he is hungry or tired so he has made it easy on us to transition to a family of 4,” says Sam.

“What was life without him?! He has been the perfect addition to our family.”

(Image: Channel 9)

Emily, 36, and John, 37

Season 2 storyline:

After trying naturally for four years, Emily and John turned to IVF eight months ago due to fertility issues.

Emily has a low egg count, and John, once known as “Super Sperm John,” has low sperm count and motility, giving them only a 3% chance of natural conception.

Despite the odds, they embarked on a weight-loss journey, with Emily losing around 20 kilos.

Now, we follow Emily and John in the next stage of their journey as they pursue IVF, with their chances increased to 20%.

Where are they now? Emily and John were overjoyed to welcome their daughter, Honey.

“I love it. I feel privileged every single day to be a mum, especially Honey’s mum. She is absolutely perfect. Motherhood itself, and the journey to get here, has been such a wild ride but I can’t help but to feel blessed,” says Emily.

“Even during those long nights or when she is upset, I still pinch myself that she is here and that she is ours. Those smiles and giggles just melt me. She makes me a better person. I feel so fulfilled and complete. My heart really is full.”

She continues: “Don’t get me wrong, it is hard, but it is also magical. Some days are diamonds and some days turn to dust but I can’t help but to feel grateful.”

John adds: “We read Honey a book that says ‘so honey-sweet you’re such a treat you make my days all buzzy’ and that really sums it up.

“We know how hard it was to get her here, and how tough she had to fight, so I think that helps with our perspective. After going through what we went through, you can’t help but to feel lucky,” he says.

“We won the lotto when we got her. She is our greatest achievement. It wasn’t easy, but it was so worth it. We try to really treasure every moment with her. Everyday is different. She is growing and changing and learning at a rapid speed. We wish time would slow down, just a little.”

(Image: Channel 9)

Maddie, 29, and Nathan, 28

Season 2 storyline:

Both teachers, Gold Coast couple Maddie and Nathan long to be parents but Maddie faces challenges with ovulation due to Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome.

Despite three failed embryo transfers in five rounds of IVF, the reason for the setbacks remains unknown but the couple are determined to introduce a great-grandchild to Nathan’s beloved grandfather, “Ba Ba Blue.”

Where are they now? Maddie and Nathan have welcomed a baby boy, Roman.

“It’s been an incredible two months. Hard to believe that we once went about life without this amazing little boy in it,” said Nathan shortly after his son’s arrival in 2024.

“Roman is a happy baby who brings us joy everyday. Watching him grow is a dream come true and seeing Maddie tackle parenthood so naturally is an inspiration to me.”

Maddie says she hopes their story inspires others who are struggling with infertility.

“I loved filming Big Miracles, I was excited to be able to share our story and journey with people that were also struggling with infertility. I watched season 1 and took a lot of inspiration from the bravery that those couples displayed throughout their journey,” she says.

“I wanted our story to inspire others and bring some hope into their lives. Being the youngest couple, I believe it was important to share our infertility and IVF journey as this isn’t something often openly spoken about.”

(Image: Channel 9)

Rachel, 36, and Heather, 35

Season 2 storyline:

Together for four years after meeting on Tinder, Rachel and Heather’s dream of starting a family began in 2022.

Unfortunately, their first attempt resulted in tragedy, with Rachel experiencing Preeclampsia and their daughter, Eden, passing away five days after birth.

After grieving, they are prepared to embark on another IVF journey, and despite the difficulty, Rachel wishes to carry the baby this time to find healing after the emotional challenges of their previous experience.

Where are they now? Rachel and Heather are now parents!

“Rowan has been such a magical addition to our family. She is the happiest, most joyful baby. We love watching her grow and learn new things everyday. We feel so privileged to be her Mums. We look forward to making more memories with her and are hoping to make her a big sister in the near future.” 

(Image: Channel 9)

Sarah, 39

Season 2 storyline:

Single mum Sarah has an 11-year-old son, Braxton and has always dreamed of a big family. After separating from her partner in 2018, she found herself single at 34, facing age-related fertility issues.

Sarah looked into fostering and joined a sperm donor list. Despite the financial outlay, and with her son’s support, she scraped together funds for three rounds of IVF. After two unsuccessful IUI procedures, we follow Sarah as she begins her first and final IVF cycle in her journey to expand her family.

Where is Sarah now? Sarah has welcomed a baby girl.

“Zariah is the happiest, easiest little baby who has brought so much love, light, joy and excitement to our world! We are one year on and can’t wait for the future as our little family of 3 – one day hopefully 4 plus!”

(Image: Channel 9)

Amy and Ryan now have baby Mila

Season 1 storyline:

Country couple Aimee and Ryan met in the police force. To access fertility services, they must travel seven hours from their home town of Walgett in rural NSW to Sydney.

It’s a gruelling journey but one phone call from the fertility clinic could change their lives forever.

“To start a family it’s all we’ve wanted,” says Aimee during the first episode of Big Miracles.

“We’ve got the good jobs, we’ve got a home… everything. We’re just missing that one little piece. Hopefully today with be the day we can stop waiting. Our whole life is riding on the news that we’re going to receive today.”

(Image: Channel 9)

Amelia and Andrew have been blessed with baby Aria

Season 1 storyline:

After trying to fall pregnant for a long and heartbreaking five years, doctors finally identify the cause of Andrew and Amelia’s infertility.

Amelia and Andrew are hopeful as they begin their IVF journey.

“Sixty disappointments I’ve had in this journey of not being pregnant,” says Amelia of her fertility journey.

“It has actually taken a long time to get here. You just can’t think or focus on anything else.”

(Image: Channel 9)

Courtney and Woody welcomed baby Eddie

Season 1 storyline:

Courtney and Woody have been trying to have a baby for three years. The couple have discovered they can’t conceive naturally because Courtney doesn’t ovulate each month. With the help of medication, Courtney gets one step closer to becoming a mum.

“I just feel like a failure. I feel out of touch with myself, with my body. I don’t understand why it’s doing what it’s doing,” shares Courtney while holding back tears.

“Who knew making a baby was so tricky.”

(Image: Channel 9)

Angus and Adam have baby Vivienne

Season 1 storyline:

Angus and Adam have been together 18 years and beginning their journey to become fathers.

With the help of IVF, Adam’s sister Corrinne and surrogate, Kate their dream may become a reality.

“For a sibling to donate an egg it is incredibly special,” says Adam.

Adam continues: “All you can do to find a surrogate is put your story out there in the hope that a very special person comes to find you.”

(Image: Channel 9)

Katrina and Steve welcomed daughter Layla

Season 1 storyline:

Cancer survivor Katrina hopes groundbreaking science can reverse the fertility damage caused by chemotherapy.

“I feel I’m a lot more patient now doing IVF after going through cancer,” says Katrina.

“We’re up to round 11 of egg collection. You do feel a little bit crazy doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different outcome. But we have to do whatever we can do get our future baby. It’s really important to both of us.”

(Image: Channel 9)

Since the show, Chantelle and Dylan have kept their personal life private.

Season 1 storyline:

Sexologist Chantelle Otten and her partner, tennis player and 2022 Australian of the Year recipitent, Dylan Alcott speak about their decision to freeze her eggs.

Chantelle and Dylan have been together three-and-a-half years and met when she attended the launch for Dylan’s book, Able, at the tail-end of 2018.

The couple would love to have children in two years.

Writing about her egg freezing journey in Big Miracles, Chantelle says:

“The decision to freeze my eggs has been a long time coming and with the help of @melbourneivf_official & a team of experts working around me, I hope to share our journey with you and give you a glimpse into the world of fertility.”

She continues: “This decision to freeze my eggs at 32 was made to ensure that I have healthy eggs preserved for when the time is right to start a family. And I hope that by sharing this process on a national platform, it will help others to feel less alone and more empowered to make informed decisions about their own fertility.”

(Image: Channel 9)