Louise Brown, the world's first baby to be born following IVF, lost her mother today. Hard to believe that IVF has only been around for 34 years, isn't it? So glad for Mrs Brown, and for all of us here, that this dream came true.

I have to wonder what the process was like back then. Couldn't have had stats to rely on Just shows it took someone who SO wanted to be a mom she defied all odds and history was made. Truly lucky for all of us.

sas

Is how scary it must have been for her -- can you imagine what is must have been like being essentially a medical test subject? And since all the previous attempts had ended in m/c, how difficult it must have been wondering whether her baby out of all the others would survive? It made me tear up a little. Maggie (in VA)

I know this is sad but feel like we should celebrate her life. After all, she was the first person to have the child she so desperately wanted.

There were many women (couples)before her (before 1980) who attempted IVF but did not have a child. The very first attempt was in 1973, here in the US in NYC.

What a remarkable woman and what remarkable teams of doctors-- in the UK, US and AU. We owe them all so much.

Mrs Brown actually lived a couple of miles away from me although I never met her personally, no doubt I must have passed her in the street numerous times. Her daughter Louise by all accounts is now a happily married mum in her own right and also lives nearby.

I often think of how brave Mrs Brown must have been to put herself through such pioneering procedures, what strength of mind she must have had - and how happy she must have been when she received her miracle. God Bless her soul and her family.

What a beautiful little baby. I can only imagine how excited the parents were. What a brave woman.

I just saw this.

I am always thankful to the doctors and early familes that went through the IVF process.  With out their bravery and hard work we wouldn't have the kids we have today.  What brave women the first ones were.

I also feel for her children.  Having just buried my mother on Monday I feel for her children and the loss of their mother.

Molly