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How CatholicCare Sydney’s Natural Fertility Services helped Kurtis and Madeleine achieve their dream of becoming parents.
For Kurtis and Madeleine, the dream of becoming parents was always close to their hearts. Married in early 2025 at St Patrick’s Church in The Rocks, surrounded by family, faith and love, the Sydney couple were excited to begin the next chapter of their lives together, starting a family of their own.
Both born and raised in Sydney, Kurtis and Madeleine had built a life grounded in strong family connections and shared values. Living on the Lower North Shore near their extended families, with two beloved dogs and fulfilling professional careers, they felt ready to take the next step. But like many couples today, they also carried quiet concerns about fertility, aware that conceiving is not always as simple as hoped.
It was during CatholicCare Sydney’s marriage preparation courses that they were introduced to Natural Fertility Services - a complimentary offering that would become an unexpected and life-changing source of support.
“I wanted to explore a natural way to conceive and gain a deeper understanding of my body before we began our journey,” Madeleine explains. “Becoming parents is something Kurtis and I have always dreamed of, so it felt important to seek guidance and support.”
Feeling Supported from the Start
From their very first appointment, Kurtis and Madeleine felt reassured. Meeting Natural Fertility Educator Sharon Young via Zoom, Madeleine was immediately struck by Sharon’s professionalism, warmth and expertise.
“I felt instantly that I was in good hands,” she recalls.
What followed was a deeply personal and supportive experience. Through one-on-one guidance, personalised charting and regular check-ins, Sharon became a trusted presence throughout Madeleine’s conception journey, offering not only practical guidance but emotional reassurance during a time that can often feel isolating.
That support became especially important when Kurtis and Madeleine experienced a chemical miscarriage during their first month of trying to conceive.
“It was incredibly difficult emotionally,” Madeleine shares. “Sharon helped me understand how common this experience is, reassured me that there was nothing wrong with my body, and gently encouraged me to keep trying. Without that support, the emotional toll would have been far greater.”
Knowledge That Empowers
Through CatholicCare Sydney’s Natural Fertility Services, Madeleine gained a deeper understanding of her body and fertility cycles using the Symptothermal Method, a form of fertility awareness that helps identify a woman's fertile window to either achieve or avoid pregnancy. As her charts began to align, so too did her confidence.
“This is a lesson I will carry with me for life. Without CatholicCare teaching me about natural fertility, I believe it would have taken us significantly longer to conceive.”
While the tools and charts were invaluable, it was the personalised, consistent support that made the greatest difference.
“Sharon was always contactable. If I were late sending in my charts, she would check in to see how I was going. No question ever felt trivial.”
Lowering stress and anxiety, feeling informed at every stage, and knowing someone was walking alongside them proved transformative for both Madeleine and Kurtis.
Dreams Realised!
When the moment finally came, it was unforgettable.
“I screamed from the bedroom, and my husband came running in. We couldn’t believe it — but at the same time, we had a gut feeling.”
For Kurtis and Madeleine, it felt like their long-held dreams were coming true. Sharon remained by their side well into the pregnancy, continuing to offer guidance and reassurance.
Today, their daughter Harriet is at the centre of their world.
“She has become a beacon of light in our lives. Becoming parents has been extraordinary - challenging, incredible, and deeply rewarding. Watching our parents become grandparents has been a true blessing.”
A Service That Makes a Difference
Reflecting on their experience, Kurtis and Madeleine believe what sets CatholicCare Sydney’s Natural Fertility Services apart is its deeply personal approach.
“The all-in-one service with a dedicated individual works exceptionally well during such a personal process. Couples often don’t speak to anyone when trying to conceive — this service offers invaluable emotional and professional support.”
They wholeheartedly recommend Natural Fertility Services to other couples considering their options.
“I thought I understood conception well until I met Sharon. The support from a professional during such a crucial time is truly incredible. The team at CatholicCare Sydney is amazing — I can’t recommend them highly enough.”
Kurtis and Madeleine’s story is a powerful reminder that with the right guidance, compassion and care, couples can feel empowered, supported and hopeful every step of the way.
For more information, contact our friendly team, call 13 18 19 or emailmre@catholiccare.org