Long before IVF clinics were common and long before infertility was openly discussed, one Colorado Springs woman helped open the door for millions of families.
In this powerful episode of Springs and Things, Carly sits down with Ellen Weir Casey, the mother of Colorado’s first IVF baby. In the early 1980s, when IVF was still experimental and often referred to as a “test tube baby,” Ellen spent years researching emerging fertility technologies, traveling across North America for groundbreaking procedures, and refusing to give up on her dream of becoming a mother.
What began as a deeply personal journey soon became part of Colorado Springs history.
Ellen shares the incredible story behind those early days of IVF, from researching medical journals in the basement of the public library to navigating a world where infertility was rarely talked about. Her courage helped bring awareness to a technology that has since helped millions of families around the world.
Her story is one of resilience, determination, and the power of women who push open doors for future generations.
In This Episode, You’ll Hear:
- What IVF looked like in the early 1980s when it was still considered experimental
- How Ellen researched groundbreaking fertility treatments before the internet existed
- The emotional and physical challenges she faced during her journey to motherhood
- Why infertility was rarely discussed publicly at the time
- How the birth of her daughter became Colorado Springs history
- Why Ellen felt a responsibility to tell the world about IVF
- The inspiration behind her memoir Unstoppable
About Ellen Weir Casey
Ellen Weir Casey is the author of
Unstoppable: Forging the Path to Motherhood in the Early Days of IVF. Her daughter, Elizabeth, was one of the earliest IVF babies in the United States and the first in Colorado. Ellen’s journey helped bring awareness to fertility treatments at a time when infertility was rarely discussed publicly. Follow Ellen on
Instagram.
Book Mentioned
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What is Springs and Things: Your Insider's Guide to Colorado Springs Culture & Community?
Welcome to Springs and Things, the podcast where two close friends spill the tea on all things Colorado Springs! From culture and community to hidden gems and neighborhood lore, we’ve got it covered. Join us as we sip our coffee (or maybe something stronger) and dive into the stories and secrets that make this city so unique. Whether you're a local or just passing through, our fun, light-hearted, and always entertaining take on the quirks, hot topics, and insider tips will keep you coming back for more. Discover what’s really happening in the Springs—beyond the mountains and parks!