The journey of the world’s second IVF Mum

Summary

Grace MacDonald is the second woman in the world to give birth through IVF and her story is significant in the history of reproductive medicine. Grace talks about her experiences with the early trials that are depicted in the Netflix film, Joy. She talks about her relationship with the scientists, especially embryologist Jean Purdy, how it has impacted her life and resilience through her journey.

Guest details

Grace MacDonald gave birth to her son, Alastair MacDonald on the 14th January 1979, following Lesley Brown, who was the first to undergo IVF and give birth to a child, Louise Brown, in England.

Grace, who was a teacher at the time, volunteered to participate in the IVF research after reading an article in the magazine Lancet. She had to keep her involvement a secret due to the ...