Science Born from the Past: Baby Arrives from 30-Year-Old Frozen Embryo, Sets World Record

[webfact]

File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Wikipedia

 

A newborn boy from Ohio has rewritten history, arriving from a 30-year-old frozen embryo, setting a new global benchmark. LIndsey and Tim Pierce have welcomed Thaddeus Daniel Pierce, drawing public awe with the statement from Lindsey: "It's like something from a sci-fi movie."

 

This miraculous birth marks the longest period an embryo has been frozen before resulting in a live birth. The prior record was held by twins born last year from embryos frozen since 1992. The Pierces, after trying for seven years to have a child, turned to embryo adoption, choosing one created by Linda Archerd in 1994 through IVF.

 

Linda Archerd, 62, originally created four embryos with her then-husband, with one becoming her now-adult daughter. The other three were stored, and despite a separation, Archerd decided against discarding them or donating them anonymously. She sought a connection, leading her to a Christian adoption agency, Nightlight Christian Adoptions, which connects donors directly with prospective parents.

 

Nightlight’s Snowflakes programme permits donors to choose recipient couples based on specific preferences, including religion and nationality. Archerd preferred a Caucasian, Christian couple within the US, leading her to the Pierces. Her intention was always personal, ensuring a link between her biological background and the child.

 

The birth occurred at Rejoice Fertility in Tennessee, an institution dedicated to transferring embryos without regard to age. While not aiming for fame, the Pierces’ quest was simple – they longed for a child. Archerd expressed a touching connection through photographs, remarking that Thaddeus already resembles her daughter, reported the BBC.

 

This unprecedented birth at Rejoice Fertility underscores the evolving landscape of embryology, offering new hope and extending familial lines in groundbreaking ways. Both families have embraced this unique journey, illustrating the possibilities of modern medicine and personal choice.

 

A tab for history, a trail for future possibilities – Thaddeus's arrival is a testament to the intersection of science and human resilience, leaving a remarkable mark for prospective parents and the scientific community globally.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-08-01

 

 

[SAFETY FIRST]

6 minutes ago, webfact said:

newborn boy from Ohio has rewritten history, arriving from a 30-year-old frozen embryo,

If I was the child, I'd be suing. 💲💲💲💲💲

 

Much better to be born 30 years ago than in today's world. 

 

[KClark]

I can certainly empathize with those wanting but unable to have children.  IFV is a life assist procedure I find morally and ethically acceptable.  For embryos 3 decades old, I hope the science on efficacy and risk vs new embryos is solid.  Guess we'll find out soon enough.  For now I'll just wish the new parents a huge congratulations and a wish that young Thaddeus doesn't grow up to fancy 1990s music and fashion!

[newbee2022]

Wonderful news 🙏