The Kindbody Blog

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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.
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If you’re wondering whether or not you should freeze your eggs, start by asking yourself these questions:



How old are you?



How many kids are in your ideal family?



How old will you be when you have your first child?



How old will you be when you have your last child?



Now, think about the basics.



You were born with all the eggs you’re ever going to have–about 2 million. By the time of your first period, that number is down to 400,000-500,000 and you lose eggs every month regardless of whether you take birth control or not.



Doctors typically point to the age of 35 as the point in which fertility declines. However, this isn’t a switch that turns off one day. As you age, your eggs age with you. Both quantity and quality declines.



Poor egg quality can result in an increased risk of miscarriage or genetic abnormalities. 



So what is egg freezing?



Egg freezing is the process of extracting eggs from the ovaries and freezing them for later use. Frozen eggs are stored in a secure facility and they can be kept there for as long as you wish. Your frozen eggs will be the same age as you were when you froze them, so if you end up needing them in the future, you can use them through in-vitro fertilization or IVF.



Reasons to consider egg freezing



There are many reasons to consider egg freezing. A few that have been outlined by some of our patients include:




You are currently focusing on your career 



You have personal goals to meet before starting a family



You haven’t found the right partner yet



You are waiting for financial stability 



You have a medical condition that can affect your fertility



You are not sure you want children, but would like to have younger eggs available if you decide to have children




Does egg freezing guarantee a baby?



The truth is not every egg will result in an embryo, not every embryo will result in a pregnancy, and not every pregnancy will result in a baby. 



As such, there is no guarantee that freezing your eggs will result in a future pregnancy or baby.



Knowledge is power



To help you make an informed decision about freezing your eggs, a Kindbody physician will start off your journey with a fertility consultation, which includes an ultrasound of your ovaries and a medical history review. Your fertility consultation will provide a better sense of your current ovarian reserve.



Schedule a consultation
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In today's evolving workplace landscape, employers are increasingly recognizing the importance of supporting their employees' fertility journeys. This support often comes in the form of egg freezing benefits, which are becoming a valuable part of wellness programs. By advocating for these benefits at your workplace, you not only empower yourself but also contribute to a workplace culture that values inclusivity, gender equality, and personal well-being.



The Rise of Egg Freezing Benefits



Societal attitudes towards family planning and career advancement have evolved over the years. Employers are adapting their benefit offerings to meet these changing needs, and egg freezing benefits are gaining prominence. This section discusses the prevalence of egg freezing benefits in the workplace and highlights the significance of this emerging trend.



The Benefits of Egg Freezing Benefits at Work



Advocating for egg freezing benefits can be a game-changer in your career and personal life. Here's why:




Reproductive Autonomy: Egg freezing benefits give you greater control over your reproductive journey. This proactive choice empowers women to make informed decisions about their reproductive health.



Career Advancement: With these benefits, women can pursue their career goals without feeling the pressure of biological timelines. Employers who offer egg freezing support create an environment that fosters professional growth.



Peace of Mind: Knowing that egg freezing benefits are available at work offers security and peace of mind. It eliminates the anxiety associated with the ticking biological clock, providing women with the freedom to make informed decisions about their future family planning.




Understanding Existing Benefits



Onboarding processes can be overwhelming, and it's common for details to be overlooked. Here's a proactive approach to determine your benefits without concerns:



Contact HR via Email




Craft a polite email to your HR department to seek information about your fertility-related benefits.



Subject: Inquiry Regarding Fertility Benefits



Express your desire to understand your fertility-related benefits better and ensure you have a clear understanding of the resources available to employees.




Advocating for Egg Freezing Benefits



1. Initiate a Conversation: Begin by reaching out to your HR department or benefits manager. Express your interest in discussing the possibility of incorporating egg freezing benefits into your employee wellness program. While it might seem like a bold move, remember that advocating for this benefit is an important step towards gender equality and personal well-being.



2. Craft an Email: To help you kickstart this conversation, here's a sample email that you can customize and send to your HR representative or benefits manager




Example Template  




Subject: Proposal for Egg Freezing Benefits Inclusion

Dear [HR Manager's Name] or [Benefits Manager's Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to discuss the possibility of incorporating egg freezing benefits into our employee wellness program. As a valued member of the team, I believe that offering this option can greatly benefit both employees and the organization as a whole.

Egg freezing is becoming an increasingly popular family planning option, especially among employees who wish to balance their career goals with their desire to have children. It provides individuals with more control over their reproductive futures, allowing them to pursue their professional aspirations without feeling rushed.

I understand that our company values the well-being and diversity of its workforce. By including egg freezing benefits, we can demonstrate our commitment to supporting employees' personal and professional growth. This addition would align with our company's progressive approach to employee benefits and promote inclusivity.

I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss this further with you and explore the potential benefits it could bring to our team. If it would be convenient, I would be happy to schedule a meeting to delve into the details and address any questions or concerns.

Thank you for considering this proposal. I believe that offering egg freezing benefits can be a significant step toward creating a more supportive and forward-thinking work environment.

Looking forward to your response.

Best regards, 
[Your name]







Catalyst for Positive, Shared Change



Advocating for oneself can be challenging, especially for some women. However, when women take the courageous step of advocating for egg freezing benefits, they are trailblazing a path that benefits all women in their workplace. By fostering a more inclusive environment, they set a powerful example and help pave the way for others to follow. Advocating for egg freezing benefits is an act of empowerment and solidarity, reshaping workplace cultures for the better.



By advocating for egg freezing benefits, you contribute to a workplace culture that values inclusivity, gender equality, and personal well-being. Encourage readers to start a dialogue with their HR departments, allowing women to embrace their aspirations without sacrificing the potential for motherhood. Your efforts create a more supportive and inclusive environment for all.
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Note: The law will now go into effect on January 1, 2026. We will post an updated timeline with new details as soon as they are available.



Starting July 1, 2025, California will implement one of the most inclusive fertility coverage laws in the nation. Senate Bill 729 (SB 729) significantly expands access to infertility care, including in vitro fertilization (IVF), for all Californians—regardless of marital status, sexual orientation, or gender identity.



Who’s covered?



The new law requires large employers in California—those with 100 or more employees and state-regulated health insurance plans—to cover both infertility diagnosis and treatment, including IVF.



What makes SB 729 stand out is its explicit inclusion of LGBTQ+ individuals, same-sex couples, and single parents. For the first time, these groups are guaranteed equal access to coverage without needing to meet outdated or exclusionary definitions of infertility.



When does coverage start?




July 1, 2025: Coverage begins for fully insured large group plans.



January 1, 2026: Many plans on a calendar-year cycle will adopt the benefit upon renewal.



July 1, 2027: Coverage begins for California state employees under CalPERS health plans.




What’s covered?



The law requires large group health insurance plans (generally offered by employers with 100 or more employees) to cover infertility diagnosis and treatment, including IVF. This can significantly lower or even eliminate out-of-pocket expenses for eligible individuals.



Plans must include coverage for:




Up to three completed oocyte (egg) retrievals



Unlimited embryo transfers, based on ASRM's single embryo transfer guidelines. This ensures that more patients can access multiple cycles of treatment if needed.




Does the new law cover fertility preservation like egg freezing?



The law does not explicitly mandate coverage for elective egg freezing for fertility preservation. However, since IVF coverage includes oocyte retrievals, some components of egg freezing may be covered if they are part of a medical treatment plan such as before undergoing treatments like chemotherapy that can harm reproductive health. 



When will my insurance start paying for my fertility services?



Currently, coverage under SB 729 is set to begin on July 1, 2025. However, it may only apply to insurance plans that renew or are updated on or after that date. If an employer’s health plan renews at a later point in the year, the required fertility coverage may be added when the plan renews, at any time during the following 11 months. So, for some employees, coverage may not begin until later in the 2025–2026 plan year, depending on their employer’s renewal schedule. State employees who are covered under Cal-PERS will gain coverage effective January 1, 2027.



When should I schedule my fertility treatments? Should I wait for insurance coverage?



The decision to start fertility treatment is deeply personal and should be made in consultation with your healthcare provider. While California’s new fertility coverage law takes effect on July 1, 2025, the exact timing of when your insurance will begin covering these services depends on your employer’s health plan renewal schedule—and for some, coverage may not begin until as late as 2027.



Because age and other individual factors can significantly impact fertility, your provider may advise you not to delay treatment while waiting for insurance coverage. We encourage you to discuss options with your healthcare provider and determine the best course of action based on your medical needs and timeline.



How do I find out how this new law applies to me?



We encourage you to reach out to both your employer/benefits team and insurance provider to confirm when coverage will begin, as timing and specific benefits may vary depending on your plan and renewal schedule.



A milestone in advancing reproductive health equity



One in six people are affected by infertility worldwide. SB 729 represents a significant milestone in advancing reproductive health equity in California. By requiring insurance coverage for fertility treatments and explicitly including LGBTQ+ individuals, single parents, and others historically left out, the law begins to close long-standing gaps in access to care. It helps remove financial and discriminatory barriers that have made fertility support out of reach for far too many. SB 729 is a step toward making family-building possible for all Californians, regardless of how they hope to grow their families. 
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Seasoned Healthcare Executive Brings Three Decades of Fertility Expertise to Kindbody’s Mission of Expanding Access to Care




Kindbody, the leading national fertility clinic network and global family-building benefits provider for employers, announced today that its Board of Directors has named David Stern as Chief Executive Officer. Bringing more than three decades of experience in the women's healthcare industry, Stern will take one of the nation's largest and best known fertility brands into its next stage of growth. Kindbody serves patients at 27 state-of-the-art signature clinics and IVF labs, 400+ partner clinics, and in 113 countries around the world.



“David’s unparalleled leadership and three decades of expertise in women’s health uniquely position him to lead Kindbody into a bold new era of growth and innovation," said Linda Mintz, Chairperson of Kindbody's Board. “As reproductive healthcare takes center stage in the national conversation, there has never been a more exciting moment to expand Kindbody's impact and empower more patients on their family-building journeys. Under David’s guidance, we are poised to redefine the future of fertility care—expanding access, advancing technology, and realizing our mission of accessible and affordable fertility care for all.”



Prior to Kindbody, Stern served as Chief Executive Officer of Boston IVF for five years, leading one of the nation’s largest and most respected fertility networks. Over the course of his distinguished three-decade career in the fertility and women’s health industries, he has held several key leadership positions. Notably, as CEO of Symbiomix Therapeutics, he spearheaded the company’s transition from development to the successful commercial launch of Solosec, culminating in its acquisition by Lupin Pharmaceuticals in 2017. Stern has also held senior executive roles at Merck Serono, where he served as Senior Vice President and Head of the Global Fertility Business Franchise, and at EMD Serono as Executive Vice President of Endocrinology within their biopharmaceutical division. His extensive experience further includes strategic leadership at Celmatix, Ohana, and OvaScience, where he was instrumental in building commercial teams, shaping corporate strategy, and expanding scientific partnerships across the women’s healthcare landscape. Stern holds an MBA with a concentration in International Marketing and Management from the F.W. Olin Graduate School of Business at Babson College, as well as a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Brandeis University.



“I am truly honored to join a company that has set the standard for innovation and leadership in reproductive healthcare,” said David Stern. “Kindbody’s commitment to patient-centered care and its trailblazing model—as the only family-building benefits provider for employers that also operates its own network of clinics—is transforming the way people access fertility services. There has never been a more exciting time to be part of Kindbody’s mission of accessible and affordable fertility care for all. I’m eager to build on the company’s strong foundation of clinical excellence by strengthening our operational infrastructure and investing in the exceptional team that will drive our next chapter of growth and impact.”
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We know that deciding when — or whether — to grow your family is one of the most personal choices you’ll ever make. And in today’s world, that decision feels more layered than ever.



Between rising costs of living, shifting life goals, and changes in reproductive access across the U.S., more people — especially women in their 20s and 30s — are exploring options like egg freezing as a way to take control of their future fertility.



Here’s what you should know: your employer-sponsored benefits through Kindbody are here to support you every step of the way.



Why More Women Are Freezing Their Eggs



Today, egg freezing isn’t just a medical procedure — it’s a proactive step. It gives you more time, more flexibility, and more peace of mind as you build the life that feels right for you.



You may be:




Focused on your career, education, or personal goals



Not ready to start a family right now — or unsure if you want to



Curious about your fertility and what your options really are




Whatever your reason, you deserve support without stigma or pressure.



What Your Kindbody Benefit May Include:



If your employer offers Kindbody as a benefit, you may have access to:




Fertility hormone testing (like AMH and FSH)



Personalized consults with top reproductive endocrinologists



Egg freezing procedures, medication, and long-term storage



Holistic services like mental health support, nutrition, and wellness counseling



Beautiful, modern clinics across the country — or virtual care, wherever you are




Ready to learn more?



Activate your benefit or schedule your egg freezing consultation.



We’re proud to offer benefits that support every stage of life — and every path to parenthood. No matter where you are in your journey, we’ve got your back.
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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.
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