Josie wears Bronze Big Sis Tilly and Callie Tote throughout. 

You may remember reading last year's community story about Josy. Having struggled for years to conceive, and endured many heartbreaking losses on her fertility journey, we are delighted to share that Josy conceived a baby boy last year on what would be her last round of IVF.

We acknowledge not every story of infertility has the ending couples hoped for, we hope those still on the journey will find hope and comfort reading Josy's story. 

Josy, it's been a remarkable journey since we last spoke to you. How does it feel to celebrate Mother's Day this year with your new bundle of joy after years of infertility struggles?

It’s so nice to be back after last years campaign. It feels completely unreal to have Johnny earth side with us. I truly didn’t think this is how our IVF story would turn out for us. 

Can you share with us some of the joys and challenges you've experienced in your first months as a mother?

Becoming a mum has been my dream come true and also the hardest job I’ve ever had. It is almost funny after 7 years of trying to create a new life it totally slipped my mind that being a mum would be so hard. I have been so focused on the end result I never gave much thought about what it would be like actually having a baby. I am enjoying learning everyday alongside Johnny. 

Looking back at your journey, what advice would you give to other women who might be going through infertility or struggling to conceive?

Oh this is a tricky one, everyone’s journey is so different. I don’t like giving advice but what we did is kept going, until we couldn’t anymore. 

I am overjoyed that Johnny is here with us and looking back at everything we have gone through, it has absolutely all been worth it.

Steve and I decided last year that what is now known as Johnny’s round of IVF would be our last ever go at any type of fertility assisted treatment. For us we had run out of capacity mentally, physically and financially.

Going into that final round of IVF I was quite at peace with our decision, and of course thrilled that it resulted in our little Johnny.  

How has becoming a mother changed your perspective on life and motherhood compared to before?

In an instant I have forgotten what life was like before Johnny, he is now my first and last thought. I’m sure this feeling will ebb and flow as the years pass but for now he is literally my everything as we are his. 

We'd love to hear about some of the special moments you've shared with your baby so far. Any particular memories that stand out to you?

I just adore hanging out with Johnny, my favourite days are when we are all home together and we go on little family adventures, this can be as simple as going for a walk, a trip to the beach or jumping in the car to visit our families in New Plymouth. We have worked so hard to be a family of three so it feels important to us prioritise this time over pretty much everything else. 

Last year, you mentioned the importance of self-care during difficult times. How has that evolved now that you're balancing motherhood with your own well-being?

Self care can now take 1-5 business days! I was painting my nails recently and had one hand done for a day before I could sit down and do the other one! Finding time for myself is still really important but just a little harder. I now ask for help (which was hard to do at the start) from family and friends to spread the load and on those very sleep deprived days! Being able to catch your breath and do something that makes you feel good (like painting your nails) can really give you a little boost.  

Your story has inspired many. Have you encountered any unexpected challenges or surprises since becoming a mother that you'd like to share?

I had to do a big mindset shift after Johnny was born, because I had waited so long for him once he was here I felt like I couldn’t say motherhood was hard, or that I was tired.

I was telling myself that I needed to be grateful and not complain because not everyone gets a baby. This really wasn’t helpful and it wasn’t until a friend shared that an IVF baby is not any different to any other baby and we will face the same newborn struggles as any other parents that I allowed myself to be a bit kinder and honest when people asked how I was in those early days. 

As we celebrate Mother's Day, what are some traditions or rituals you're looking forward to sharing with your new family?

I am looking forward to being together and celebrating how our little family came to be. I also won’t say no to a yummy brunch or breakfast in bed … Steve if you are reading this you might need to help Johnny in the kitchen! 

Josy at our 2023 and 2024 Mother's Day Campaign shoots.

Saben Style – What Saben bag is always by your side?  And what’s next on your wishlist?

 At the moment my Milan is always with us, it really is the most perfect nappy bag, not only is it practical it also makes me feel so put together and organised - even on days that I’m not! 

I am eyeing up the Cleo crossbody for when Johnny starts to crawl and I need to be hands free! 

Josie wears Bronze Big Sis Tilly and Callie Tote throughout.