Ashley Mareko Featured in The Free Press: What Surrogacy Really Looks Like
In the article, Ashley shares what brought her to surrogacy, how it has helped support her family, and the emotional nuance of carrying children for others. From learning about surrogacy in a Bible study group to completing four journeys as a gestational carrier, her path has been anything but ordinary.
“I’m not a handmaid. I’m a businesswoman.”
Her quote pushes back against the stereotypes often attached to surrogacy. While she has earned compensation—enough to support her family, cover a mortgage, and weather her husband’s illness—Ashley makes it clear that the process is far more than transactional.
The article highlights one of her most meaningful matches: a Chinese couple for whom she has now carried three babies and is expecting a fourth. Despite cultural and language differences, the relationship has been defined by mutual respect and shared values.
It also doesn’t shy away from more difficult moments, such as a separate surrogacy journey that lacked emotional connection and left her feeling unseen. These contrasting experiences underscore the importance of strong, values-aligned matches—and the emotional weight surrogates often carry.
Ashley’s story reminds us that surrogacy is never one-size-fits-all. It’s a deeply human experience, shaped by intention, care, and courage. We’re proud to have her leading our team and grateful to see her voice included in such an important national conversation.
Stay tuned to the SurrogateFirst blog for more updates and discussions on surrogacy-related topics.
