Just over 100 members came to our meeting. Here is how some of them expressed their feelings afterwards....

"It was highly informative. My husband particularly received great support from the fathers of DI children that he spoke to. He came away full of confidence and enthusiasm for our own attempts in the future. We're so glad we made the three hour drive to attend. Thanks."

"I enjoyed being amongst people who share some of my own experience. I could just walk up to someone and talk openly with them without any of the usual concerns about what is 'socially acceptable'. It was particularly helpful talking to other women who had had children with a known donor. I found it very encouraging and supportive."

"We joined the Network a year ago and this was our first meeting. We both felt a little apprehensive as we drove into the car park, so were pleased to find a relaxed and friendly atmosphere to greet us. This was our first ever opportunity to meet and talk with others in our special situation. We both found the personal accounts given in the morning very helpful and reassuring. We both found it a very worthwhile day, and would like to thank everyone involved, and appreciate everyone's openness and desire to support others."

"I enjoyed the fact that so much time was given to talking about the telling process - it really seemed to give support to those who would like to begin the telling of children and family. Also the group discussing "DI and Belief Systems" was very enlightening - learning how DI is viewed by the various faiths and atheists alike."

"It was really heart-warming to be in a group of families who so clearly put children's needs for honesty and openness as a priority. The day offered an opportunity to think and discuss difficult topics in a warm and supportive environment. Thank you."

"We found the day extremely useful - we had come mainly to gain ideas about how to tell our son, when he is older, about DI. We found the initial speakers' experiences heartening and will take these on board when he starts asking the inevitable questions. The day was informal and relaxing and very well organised. We were also pleased with the crèche and the staff which had been a concern before we went."

"Most of all meeting people in the same situation as myself"