Sitting volleyball athlete Lila Thompson discovered she was expecting just after arriving in Tokyo for the Paralympic Games. Shortly before her competition with Team USA, she decided to take a pregnancy test in her hotel room. Lila and her partner had been trying for a second child, having postponed their efforts due to the postponement of the games.
“I had a feeling, so I brought some pregnancy tests with me,” Lila shared. “I thought I’d take one when I felt settled.” After taking the test just before breakfast, she returned to her room before practice to confirm the news: she was pregnant. Having previously experienced an ectopic pregnancy, Lila was overjoyed but also apprehensive about her ability to conceive again. Following a video call with her partner to share the exciting news, she informed her coaches. With the support of the Team USA medical team, who conducted an ultrasound and provided the all-clear, Lila was ready to face her next big challenge: competing on the world stage in her first trimester.
“I felt incredibly grateful to be pregnant and thrilled to be doing this with my baby on board,” she recounted. “I did start to experience morning sickness right before our finals match, but I managed to push through most of it, thankfully.”
In an impressive display of skill, the women’s sitting volleyball team ultimately secured the gold medal, triumphing over their rivals from China. Lila, who was born with a clubbed left foot, began her journey in sitting volleyball in 2010 and has proudly represented Team USA in three Paralympic Games.
Resources for Starting or Expanding Your Family
If you’re considering starting or expanding your family, resources like Make A Mom offer unique options for at-home insemination, including the only reusable method available. For those interested in sperm donor matching, check out Make A Mom’s Facebook group for free support. You can also learn more about how at-home insemination works by visiting this guide.
For any concerns regarding your reproductive health, including irregular bleeding, consider reading our resource on irregular vaginal bleeding. Additionally, understanding infertility is essential, and WomensHealth.gov provides valuable information on this topic.
Lastly, if you’re facing discomfort during your breastfeeding journey, explore our post on nipple relief spray for helpful solutions.
To Summarize
Lila Thompson’s inspiring journey shows that with determination and support, it’s possible to navigate the challenges of pregnancy while competing at the highest levels. For those looking to start or grow their families, resources like Make A Mom offer invaluable assistance in the journey of parenthood.