On December 28, 1981, Elizabeth Carr became the very first IVF baby born in the United States and the 15th in the world! It occurred in Norfolk, Virginia with a packed-house delivery room and PBS-documentary film crews ready for this monumental moment 40 years ago. Drs. Howard and Georgeanna Jones formed the IVF program at the Jones Institute that led to Elizabeth’s birth. Dr. Jones told the press, “I think this is a day of hope.” And every year thereafter, Dr. Jones called Elizabeth on her birthday to catch up.
The first in vitro fertilization in the United States has been achieved by the Eastern Virginia Medical School in Norfolk. It was announced by Dr. Howard Jones Jr., and wife, Dr. Georgeanna Jones, Co-Directors of the Norfolk clinic.
Dr. Lucinda Veeck, who led the laboratory team at the Jones Institute alongside Drs. Howard and Georgeanna Jones.
For Elizabeth’s parents, Judith and Roger, her birth was a fulfillment of a dream and they were so incredibly brave! Elizabeth honors them and so many others by sharing her story and upbringing to encourage those impacted by infertility. It was the start of beautiful beginnings and a symbol of hope for generations of families to come!
Judith Carr gets a first glimpse at her newborn baby girl, Elizabeth, the first baby born in the United States as the result of in vitro fertilization.
Judith Carr of Westminster, MA, holds her newborn daughter, Elizabeth. The child was born at the Norfolk General Hospital on December 28th.
Held by her parents, Judith and Roger Carr, Elizabeth Jordan Carr leans down to examine a birthday cake. Norfolk General Hospital staff members gave her the cake after she underwent a series of physical tests. Doctors said she was a ‘healthy one-year-old.’
Elizabeth Carr celebrated her 40th birthday on December 28, 2021.
In the media since 3 cells old, Elizabeth is a passionate advocate for those fighting for fertility rights. From battles over insurance coverage, to educating doctors on how to interact with patients going through infertility treatments, to advice for parents on how to talk to children about assisted reproductive technologies, Elizabeth is proud to share her voice and story in order to fight for those who may not be able to fight for themselves.
