A Journey of Hope: The Goetzinger Family

Chelsey and Nick Goetzinger, Carroll natives, share their heartfelt infertility story and how the fertility services offered at St. Anthony Clinic helped them achieve their dream of expanding their family. Through their story, they hope to spread awareness and offer comfort to those going through a similar experience.

posted on 1/16/2025 in Features

Chelsey and Nick Goetzinger were born and raised in Carroll, Iowa, a community perfect for raising a family and building careers. After high school, Chelsey moved to Cedar Rapids to attend Kirkwood Community College, earning an Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education. Life brought her back to Carroll when she met Nick, they married and decided to settle close to their families.

In 2016, the couple was surprised but overjoyed to learn they were expecting their first baby. Chelsey had a seemingly normal pregnancy and gave birth to their son, Skyler, on October 30, 2016. He was a perfect 8-pound baby boy. Skyler brought endless joy to their lives, but as the years passed, Chelsey and Nick longed to grow their family. This time, the journey was not so simple.

After months without success, Chelsey set out to find answers from various doctors and clinics. After countless visits, the doctors began using the term secondary infertility – the Goetzinger’s new reality. Chelsey was diagnosed with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a condition that causes irregular menstrual cycles and makes ovulation and conception difficult. Uterine scarring further complicated her situation. The couple endured years of tests, treatments, and heartbreak. Specialists in bigger cities offered guidance, but the journey was physically and emotionally exhausting, as well as financially draining. When doctors began discussing in vitro fertilization (IVF), Chelsey and Nick knew it wasn’t the right path for them. For a time, hope dimmed.

Despite the challenges, the Goetzingers refused to give up. Chelsey learned that Dr. Marie Johnson, a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist with expertise in fertility care, had joined the St. Anthony Clinic in Carroll. Dr. Johnson’s past experience at a fertility clinic reignited their hope. Chelsey booked an appointment, and from their first meeting, Dr. Johnson’s confidence and compassionate care restored their belief in possibilities.

Dr. Johnson carefully pieced together Chelsey’s four-year infertility journey and proposed a plan. It began with exploratory surgery to address uterine scarring and potential blockages. Dr. Johnson performed a hysteroscopy at St. Anthony Surgery Center, successfully removing polypoid tissue. Chelsey recovered quickly and was discharged the same day.

The next month, Chelsey began medications to stimulate ovulation, paired with regular monitoring. When the first cycle didn’t seem promising, disappointment loomed. Plans were in place to cancel the cycle and try again the following month. But fate had other plans.

Weeks later, a faint line on a pregnancy test sparked cautious hope. Blood tests confirmed rising HCG levels, and Dr. Johnson’s prediction proved true—Chelsey was pregnant. At their nine-week scan, the couple heard words they would never forget: “Congratulations, you are officially pregnant with twins!”

Reflecting on their experience, Chelsey shared, “From the very first appointment, it was clear we weren’t just patients to the staff at St. Anthony; we were people whose emotions and hopes they deeply cared about.”

TwinsThe support of St. Anthony staff left a profound impact. Staff from various departments including admissions, lab, clinic, The Birth Place and beyond provided support, kind words, and excitement.

Dr. Johnson stood out as their dream maker. After Chelsey’s surgery, her mother asked Dr. Johnson if Chelsey would be able to achieve her dreams. Without hesitation, she replied, “Yes!” And she delivered on that promise.

St. Anthony wasn’t just a healthcare facility —it became a beacon of hope, kindness, and unwavering support. Chelsey says, “Would I recommend them? Absolutely, without hesitation. They didn’t just provide healthcare; they shared in our story and helped us write one filled with hope and gratitude.”Skylar

Today, life is a joyful chaos. Skyler has proudly taken on his role as a big brother to Chloe Marie and Vincent Thomas. He dreams of turning Vincent into a ballplayer and stands guard over Chloe, already planning to protect her from future suitors. For Chelsey and Nick, their family is a testament to faith, perseverance, and the incredible care they received at St. Anthony.

Chelsey felt compelled to share their story because infertility can be isolating, often leading to anxiety and depression. By opening up about their struggles, setbacks, and triumphs, she hopes to make a difference for others navigating similar journeys.

For more information about Dr. Johnson and her fertility services at St. Anthony Clinic, call 712-792-2222 or click here.

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