Emma Winstanley, a 22-year-old hairdresser from Chester, has always been passionate about helping women fulfill their dreams of starting a family. Having heard countless stories of infertility heartbreak from her loved ones, Emma understood the devastating impact it can have on those longing for children. She knew that women who donate their eggs can make a powerful and life-changing difference.

With no immediate plans to have children of her own and feeling that it would be a waste not to use her eggs, Emma decided to take the leap and donate her eggs in November. She intends to repeat the process again this year to help others.

“I’m only 22 and not in a relationship, so I’m not in any rush to have children,” Emma said. “I feel like it’s a waste if I’m not going to have them. I try and see it as if I’m donating blood, and I plan on starting the donation process again in February this year.”

Emma’s friends and family have been incredibly supportive of her kindhearted decision, although her mom initially had concerns about the long-term effects on Emma’s fertility. Once she realized there were no lasting impacts, her mom became proud of Emma.

Some may think this is a significant decision for such a young woman, but Emma had actually planned to do this since she turned 18. Having witnessed the pain her family members went through with IVF, Emma applied to be a donor in February last year. She underwent psychiatric testing and blood tests at the Chester-based Care Fertility. The process involved various appointments spread out over nine months, making it less stressful for Emma.

Aside from the medical procedures, Emma also received legal information about the egg donation process. She was surprised to learn that the eggs were considered her property until they were in the test tube. She also had the option to write a letter to the families she was hoping to help.

“I was given the opportunity to give a message to whoever is born from the egg when they turn 18,” Emma explained. “I thought that was an important part of the process because it’s something you write personally. It can’t be too personal though, as I can’t give away my identity at the same time. I tried to write something inspirational for them.”

For each donation cycle, Emma receives £750, which covers her travel and expenses. During her first procedure, doctors successfully collected 46 eggs. Emma is very open about her own decision to donate and is now encouraging other young women to consider egg donation.

“I personally don’t know anyone else who has done this, but I don’t feel like I’m too young,” Emma stated. “There are a few people who have been quite negative and told me that I’m now a mother. I don’t agree with this. I’m just a donor. The people who raise them are their families. Other girls my age have asked if they should do it too – I told them to do their own research and speak to a clinic. It’s completely your own choice, but I don’t regret mine.”