Why surrogacy and why Dr. Patel in India?

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I have come to learn that most folks who are pondering surrogacy have been through at least several IVF cycles and have come to feel that surrogacy is the next logical step in the quest of parenthood. We never attempted IVF before as that would not help us because my wife is taking certain medications that are known to cause birth defects. Basically, we were advised to not pursue pregnancy. As far as we know, we are not infertile, but might as well be...

We thought of adoption, and still do I suppose, but with waitlists years out, this is not exactly an appealing option. Surrogacy, while expensive in the US, was extensively researched though. What ultimately drove us to Dr. Patel's clinic in Anand, India was not just the price though. In the US one must separately find a clinic, a surrogate and a lawyer. It became apparent rather quickly that this was a lot to juggle. A great clinic is very important, but so is a wonderful surrogate. They are not always in the same area and sometimes the surrogate will be adamant on using a certain clinic. There might also be an insistence on using her lawyer and contract; one that might not be exactly intended parent (IP) friendly. Also, there are clinics that won't proceed with certain surrogates, usually because of their size or BMI. It was very frustrating. One could get an agency to handle everything, but then the price really skyrockets toward $100k. With the economic downturn in 2008, money became much more of a factor as well for us. I'm guessing for others also...

My mom had sent to me an email in the Spring of 2008 about Dr. Patel and the Oprah show that had aired in the Fall of 2007. I emailed Dr. Patel shortly thereafter and secured a date about 6 months later...

We ultimately chose Dr. Patel because of the simplicity of having everything arranged or provided by her clinic, including the meds (no need source those elsewhere and hassle with airport security). What a relief. Also a factor of course is her wonderful success rates! And, given that an "attempt" (in late 2008) would just cost us about $10,000 USD (5,600 to her clinic, plus airfare, hotel, etc), it was the clear, logical choice, at least for us.

Oh, another factor is the positive impact the money has on the surrogate and her family. As with the life brought into the world, the money she receives with a successful pregnancy is life-altering. As I recall, she will get about $7,000 USD. When we were out there, we learned that a home can be purchased for about $2,500 USD. Money is often used by surrogates to put their children through college. I find it somewhat rewarding to know that both our lives, and that of our respective families, will be better off by virtue of this chance relationship.

Curious to hear what factors or considerations drove others to Anand...