After experiencing two heartbreaking miscarriages before the birth of their daughter Willow, Ashley, an infertility advocate, and Carlos Rodón, pitcher for The New York York Yankees, knew they wanted to turn their story into something that could help others. What began as private grief has grown into a public mission: the Carlos Rodón Foundation, and its signature initiative, the Willow Grant, which provides financial support for families pursuing in vitro fertilization (IVF) at Kindbody clinics nationwide.
In this conversation with Kindbody’s Founding Physician Dr. Fahimeh Sasan, Ashley, and Carlos share the personal journey that led to the foundation’s creation, the impact they hope to make, and why no one should face the cost of fertility treatment — or the weight of infertility — alone.
What inspired you to create the Carlos Rodón Foundation?
The Carlos Rodón Foundation was born from a deep desire to give back, something both Carlos and I were raised to value. We come from humble beginnings, where community meant a lot, and generosity wasn’t about how much you had, but how willing you were to help. Our life experiences, especially our struggles with fertility and miscarriage, showed us just how many people are silently fighting similar battles. We wanted to transform our personal pain into purposeful action. The foundation became a way to support families in meaningful ways, and The Willow Grant became its heartbeat.
Can you share more about the journey that led to Willow’s birth — and how that experience shaped your desire to help others?
Willow’s birth was the culmination of an emotional and trying journey. We experienced two devastating miscarriages that left us heartbroken and searching for answers. We were fortunate to have access to fertility care and holistic specialists, but we quickly realized how many others can’t afford this type of care. It’s not because they lack hope or strength, but because they simply can’t afford it. Before we were set to start IVF to try to minimize our chance of having another miscarriage we found out we were pregnant. Willow is our rainbow baby, our light after the storm, and every time I hear her laugh or watch her play, I’m reminded that this joy should be possible for every family. That’s why helping others became a mission. More people should be able to experience the profound love of parenthood.
Why was it important to you to turn something so personal and painful into something public and purposeful?
Grief can be isolating, especially when it comes to miscarriage and infertility. I remember how lost I felt, when a nurse, a woman who had walked a similar path, offered me comfort that she had been in my shoes. That moment didn’t become easier to handle, but it did become less lonely. Sharing our story was difficult, but it felt necessary. If our vulnerability can make even one person feel less alone or give them the strength to keep going, it’s worth it. Turning pain into purpose has been a beautiful part of our journey.
What is the Willow Grant, and what kind of support does it offer?
The Willow Grant is a financial assistance grant that helps families facing infertility access the care and treatment they need to try and build their families after pregnancy loss. Whether it’s helping cover IVF costs, or other clinic related services. The goal is to remove the financial burden that often stands in the way of people becoming parents. It’s not just about the money, it’s about giving hope, encouragement, and support during a time that can feel overwhelmingly lonely and out of reach.
How does the grant process work — and what do you want applicants to know when they apply?
The Willow Grant process is rooted in compassion. This cycle, we’re proud to partner with Kindbody, who share our mission of making fertility care accessible, not just for the 1%, but for everyone.
We ask applicants to share their story, their needs, and where they are in their journey through our grant software. After submitted, each application goes through a multi-phase selection committee review. Please know you are not just a number. You are seen, your story matters, and we believe in your dream.
While we can’t fund every application, we’re doing everything we can to help as many families as possible.
Families can apply for the grant here. If you are an existing Kindbody patient in need of financial assistance, we encourage you to apply as well.
Fertility struggles and miscarriage are still difficult for many people to talk about. What do you hope to change about that?
I hope we can create a world where these conversations aren’t whispered or hidden in shame. Fertility struggles and loss are more common than we think, yet so many people suffer in silence. I want to normalize talking about these experiences, to help people feel supported rather than isolated. When we share our stories, we take away the power of shame and replace it with empathy. I hope the Willow Grant not only helps financially but also opens the door to healing through community and open conversation.
Was it hard to share your own story publicly? What has the response been like?
Yes, it was hard at first. These are some of the most raw, vulnerable parts of our lives. But once we opened up, the outpouring of love, support, and “me too” messages was overwhelming in the best way. So many people reached out to share their own stories, many of them for the first time. It reminded us that we’re all more connected than we realize, and that sometimes being brave enough to share your story can help someone else feel seen, heard, and less alone.
What’s your hope for the Willow Grant in the next few years? How do you want it to grow?
Our hope is to expand the reach of the Willow Grant so we can support more families every year, not just dozens, but eventually hundreds. We want to build a community around it, one where recipients stay connected, share their journeys, and uplift others. Eventually, we’d love to offer emotional support resources through partnerships, care to make the IVF process easier, and maybe even fun events with all the Willow Grant babies. Dreams are big, and they should be. The families we’re helping have big dreams too.
How can others support this mission — whether by donating, spreading the word, or sharing their own experiences?
There are so many ways to help. Of course, donations make a direct impact by allowing us to fund more treatments, but just as important is spreading the word. Share the foundation, talk openly about infertility, or simply listen to a friend going through it. If you’ve walked this road yourself, sharing your experience can be a lifeline to someone else. Every story, every dollar, every post, and every conversation brings us closer to a world where no one is denied the chance to become a parent simply because they can’t afford it.
