Becoming parents again as a same-sex couple: What challenges does this entail? And how can the dream be realized again despite the many obstacles?
We accompany the already experienced fathers Horst and Manuel on their journey back to the USA to fulfill their desire to have children again via a surrogate mother.
The couple lives in the Bavarian countryside and already has a daughter, born via surrogacy in the USA. Their daughter, affectionately nicknamed Littleone, has changed their lives and set an incredible example. But the desire for a sibling for their little girl was always there; she was to become "Big Sister" 😉 It's very important to them that Littleone is involved from the very beginning. Because, as with any parent, the birth of a second child brings new challenges.
Then, all of a sudden, the moment arrives: They've found a new mother! Their new dream is becoming a reality. Jessica will carry Horst and Manuel's next child into the world. The couple isn't revealing who the biological father is; it remains a little family secret.
Although it's a new experience with a different surrogate mother, the excitement is mixed with a familiar joy. They know the special bond that develops between the two of them and the birth mother. It was the same with their first birth mother, whom they also visited on this trip to the USA, and with whom the four of them spent a wonderful time ❤️
Horst and Manuel, how did you come to the decision to pursue surrogacy again with a new surrogate mother?
" Our first surrogate mother was unable to continue the journey with us. Therefore, we found a wonderful new surrogate mother, Jessica. It's another super exciting match for all of us, as Jessica is a first-time surrogate mother and we only met in person for the first time a week ago.
What encouraged you to repeat this step?
"The incredible connection and positive experience of the first pregnancy have strengthened us. Although it's a new relationship with Jessica, we feel very comfortable and supported."
Why return to the USA?
"Unfortunately, surrogacy remains illegal in Germany. Our dream therefore led us back to the USA, where we find the necessary legal support and acceptance."
They are already aware of the costs and the organizational effort involved. But that doesn't deter Horst and Manuel. They are holding fast to their dream.
The moment has come
It's May 3rd and the moment has arrived. The last few days have been incredibly exciting. Horst and Manuel met Jessica in Texas and are "speechless." They felt her baby bump and describe it as more than just a #jamjarmoment – and now we can hardly believe it, but Horst and Manuel are holding their son in their arms. They are in the delivery room, experiencing the miracle of birth once again.
Follow her latest journey on Instagram
Since their first journey into parenthood, Horst and Manuel have decided to share their experiences. On Instagram at @2.be.good.dads, they document their lives as proud fathers and show that love knows no bounds. It is important to them to provide the necessary courage and information to people who want to, or often have to, take a "different path" to starting a family. Through their own story, they have already helped many couples embark on this incredible journey.
We at Rookie are so happy for Horst and Manuel that their dream is coming true again. Their courage and determination inspire us every day. Congratulations to you both, we are so proud of your family of four!
