Organizing

OK. Now that we decided to do the preimplantation genetic diagnosis procedure (I'm going to start calling this PGD), we've got to get things organized. There's a lot to think about. I already had my prepregnancy checkup with my ob/gyn before I got my IP (Incontinentia Pigmenti) test, so that's taken care of (I'm in perfect health, she says). I guess the first thing we need to do is:

1. Meet with a genetic counselor.

My ob/gyn, before she abandoned me for Hawaii, said that if the test turned out positive, I should meet with a genetic counselor. Isn't it kind of amazing that there actually exists a person called "The Genetic Counselor"? Sounds kind of Star Trekky. Actually, I've done so much research on my disease and procedures now myself, I don't know what the counselor can tell me that we don't already know. However, it still seems like a good idea. My ob/gyn's office gave me a referral for one, so I'll call and set up an appointment.

The next big thing is:

2. Find a doctor/clinic/hospital/centre that does PGD's for my rare disease.

This could be difficult. There are only 3 centres in the world that even do testing for it, and I know the one in the U.S. doesn't do the procedure. I asked when I did my test. That probably means we will have to travel to the U.K. or Italy for the procedure. I doubt insurance will cover travel expenses. Speaking of insurance,

3. Figure out exactly what insurance will cover and what we'll have to pay.

We've got 100% in-network infertility coverage, and 80% out-of-network, so we're probably in pretty good shape, but better check.

And #4:

4. Read in detail about the procedure so I know what to expect.