S4:E39 - Kristi & Imogen

Kristi’s Story: Solo Motherhood, Mental Health & Finding Donor Siblings for Imogen

Kristi didn’t follow a traditional path to motherhood. After rebuilding her mental health and reaching 40, believing she had missed her window, she eventually found the courage — and the right medical support team — to pursue solo motherhood.

In this powerful and vulnerable episode, Kristi shares her experience with depression, the fear of postpartum relapse, and the detailed medical advice she received to continue her mental health medications safely through conception, pregnancy and breastfeeding.

She also opens up about using an overseas donor, how she first located donor siblings, and her evolving views on DNA, family, and chosen connections. Later in the episode, Kristi talks through her cancer journey, how she prepared Imogen for the return of chemotherapy, and why her daughter's resilience and creativity continue to anchor her through every challenge.

This interview is raw, insightful, and full of heart — a testament to strength, self-advocacy and solo motherhood in the real world.

Key Takeaways

• Mental health support is crucial — Kristi’s psychiatrist helped her prepare safely for conception, pregnancy and breastfeeding.

• Donor siblings came via online searching — including the DSR and the clinic’s own registry.

• Cancer relapse reshaped everything, but Kristi prioritised protecting Imogen emotionally through each step.

• Chosen family matters — Kristi’s views on DNA vs lived connection have shaped how she talks to Imogen about donor siblings.

• Donor Conceived Families Australia - Kristi is using her skills and passion to support important advocacy for issue impacting donor conceived families - learn more about what she talks about at https://www.donorconceivedfamilies.au

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