Greg Dennis (35), a group account director, and his wife Bianca (33), an interior designer from Johannesburg have embarked on a unique journey to welcome baby Dennis into their lives, through IVF.
Greg and Bianca’s love story began when they met in a nightclub in 2009 and after realizing that Bianca hadn’t really taken to him at first, Greg played the long game and crept into her DM’s to see how he could get to spend more time with her, and well, we can say that it all worked out in his favor.
Pictured above: Young Greg and Bianca Dennis during their early dating days
“We dated for about 4 years before I proposed to her on a beach in Cape Town. We were engaged for about 2 years and then we had the most beautiful wedding in 2016. It was only then did we move in with each other, bought our first house together, had fur-babies, and the rest is history.” says Greg.
Their story is woven with moments of joy, laughter, and companionship, but the missing piece of their puzzle is the sound of a child’s laughter. After getting married, Greg and Bianca decided to spend the first 2-3 years of their marriage enjoying each other’s company, and going on adventures with the plan to try to have a family a bit later on in their lives. But, the couple reached a pivotal point in their quest for parenthood as they faced a tumultuous emotional rollercoaster when they were faced with the harsh reality of infertility, and doctors recommended IVF as the next step.
Pictured above: Greg and Bianca at their engagement photoshoot
“We can’t help but think that if we only knew that we would struggle to have a baby after waiting we probably would have started sooner. Becoming parents has always been a part of our planned life and not knowing the amount of hurdles we would encounter along the way is heartbreaking. But, if there’s one thing I know is that Bianca would be the most amazing mom. Caring, nurturing, a little crazy, but the best mom ever.” says Greg.
However, the financial burden associated with IVF presented an unforeseen challenge. So they tried other routes, along the more natural path as well as medicated. When this did not work out, Greg and Bianca spoke to friends and family and that’s where they were given the suggestion of crowdfunding for IVF.
“We were hesitant to ask people for money. But, others assured us that it’s a brave thing to do, it’s got a good cause and everyone would be open to donating. So we did it” explains Greg.
Pictured above: Greg and Bianca at their wedding in 2016
Motivated and with encouragement from their loved ones, Greg and Bianca decided to share their story and raise funds for their IVF journey, along with a heartwarming and creative idea. They introduced a 1000-piece puzzle, where supporters could contribute financially and have their names written on the back of the puzzle pieces. This beautiful mosaic of love and support will find its place in Baby Dennis’s nursery, symbolizing the unity of a community that came together to make a dream come true.
“We came across the idea of the puzzle a while back and always thought it would be a great way to always think of the journey we went through, the people who supported us, and something for baby Dennis to remember how loved they are. We’re also a family and friend group that loves games and board games so it was quite fitting. We felt that with so many people wanting to help make our dream a reality, every contribution was like adding a puzzle piece to our dream, that when complete it would be a reminder of the support and love we have from everyone. Especially because we’ll be adding their names to each piece of the puzzle.” explains the couple.
Crowdfunding on BackaBuddy
With the financial aspect of IVF being a daunting challenge for them, Greg and Bianca decided to start a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy, where they have raised over R100 000 of their R200 000 target with the help of over 100 donors.
The funds raised will cover not only the IVF procedure itself but also the essential medications, ultrasounds, and embryo testing.
Pictured above: Greg and Bianca enjoying a day at the beach
“We know that IVF is not always guaranteed and we know that everyone contributing to our dream knows this too. We’re really grateful for the love and support we’ve received. Everyone is so generous and we could never have done this without all of you. Baby Dennis will have a lot of thank you cards to write on their birthday every year.” says the couple.
Support this campaign here:
https://www.backabuddy.co.za/greg-dennis-5787324897456026615
Donate via Snapscan:
https://pos.snapscan.io/qr/Greg_Dennis
Some heartfelt donor comments on Greg and Bianca’s campaign:
- “God bless you. This baby is going to be a real blessing.” – Nicki Gough
- “Wishing you all the best and sending lots of love and good vibes on this journey! You’re in my prayers xx” – Jena Shams
- “You will be incredible parents ♡ sending loads of love and support from The Gordon’s” – Kerri Gordon