We are Branka and Rick Turnbull, a couple from Edmonton, Alberta who met in a classroom at NAIT in 1999. We bonded over our love for history, education, and deep conversation—values that continue to guide our lives today. In 2007, we were married in a cozy ceremony at the historic McKay Avenue School.
Rick is thoughtful, calm, and tech-savvy; Branka is warm, insightful, and passionate about teaching and community building.
Friends describe us as compassionate, playful, and deeply loyal. We value honesty, kindness, and thoughtful conversation—and we are always the ones who remember birthdays, bring extra snacks to game night, and organize spontaneous family dinners just because.
Branka grew up in Edmonton, and Rick’s family moved from Ontario to Alberta when he was eight. Each of us comes from a family of three siblings and we remain close to our parents and extended relatives. Holidays are filled with laughter, storytelling, and cherished traditions—each one waiting to be passed on to a child of our own.
Family means everything to us. We are surrounded by support and are eager to welcome a little one into our circle of love.
Our path to parenthood has spanned more than a decade, filled with hope, heartbreak, and resilience. We pursued treatments across Alberta, B.C., and the U.S.—from IVF to hormonal therapies and alternative methods like the Creighton Model.
In 2013, we conceived naturally—a miracle moment. But after disclosing my high-risk pregnancy to my employer, I was dismissed, and the stress led to a miscarriage. Later, we applied to adopt through Alberta’s foster-to-adopt program but were disqualified due to fertility medication, despite medical advocacy.
Determined to fight for fairness, we launched a Human Rights case. After seven years, we received a ruling in our favour that honored our baby’s memory and recognized our struggle.
Today, with adenomyosis and fibroids making natural conception impossible, we have 10 tested embryos safely preserved at Oasis Fertility Centre. They represent our unwavering hope and the family we are meant to create.
Our home is nestled in a quiet, family-friendly neighbourhood in Edmonton, backing onto peaceful greenspace. Inside, it is warm and welcoming—filled with old books, cozy corners, and space to dream. Outside, the backyard is inviting, perfect for tiny footsteps, garden picnics, and evening lullabies. It is where we imagine spilled juice boxes, teddy bear tea parties, and gentle bedtime stories—all wrapped in the comfort of unconditional love.
We love history documentaries, home-cooked meals, and cozy evenings filled with trivia. Branka crafts perfect pancakes and legendary lasagna. Rick’s memory for obscure facts shines (even if his keys mysteriously vanish). We enjoy quiet walks, deep conversations, and connecting with people over shared meals. We have a beloved Bombay cat named Magpii, gifted by our niece when her parrot could not quite make peace with the feline fluffball. Magpii adores Rick—and tolerates Branka with theatrical affection. Our childhood stuffed animals—Branka’s bear and Rick’s lion—still sit proudly, waiting for their next best friend.
Your well-being is our priority. We will cover all costs and expenses, and provide wholehearted emotional and practical support throughout this journey. You will always be respected, heard, and deeply cared for—before, during, and after pregnancy. We are committed to creating a smooth, meaningful, and empowering experience.
We would love to build a sincere and trusting relationship. Whether that means regular check-ins, sharing milestones, or staying connected after the birth, we will follow your lead and support your comfort. If you are comfortable, we would be honoured to be present at the birth. But your preferences and privacy will always come first.
Thank you for considering our story. We know the path you are walking is one of great courage, love, and generosity. If something in our words has spoken to you, we would be honoured to walk this path together. Our hearts are open. Our gratitude is endless. And our family dream rests gently in your hands.
With love and admiration,