Captain Sandy Yawn and Wife Leah Shafer Celebrate Parenthood After Welcoming Baby Through Reciprocal IVF: “We Both Created This Life”
Love is at the helm, and the journey has never been sweeter. Below Deck Mediterranean’s beloved Captain Sandy Yawn and her wife, gospel singer Leah Shafer, are officially parents — and the couple couldn’t be more elated to share their joy with the world. The two recently welcomed their first child together via reciprocal IVF, a process that has not only deepened their bond but also underscored the power of love, science, and shared dreams.
The couple announced the arrival of their baby with a touching joint statement and an emotional photo featuring both moms cradling their newborn, smiles beaming with pride and wonder.
“We both created this life,” Captain Sandy wrote in a heartfelt caption on Instagram. “It’s surreal, beautiful, and the most rewarding experience we’ve ever had. Our baby is here, and our hearts are full.”
A Journey of Love and Intention
The couple, who tied the knot in 2023 after several years of dating, have been open about their desire to expand their family. In 2024, they decided to pursue parenthood through reciprocal IVF — a fertility treatment option that allows both partners in a same-sex female couple to physically share in the process of creating life. Leah’s egg was fertilized via IVF, and Sandy carried the pregnancy to term.
“We wanted to both be part of the process in the most intimate way,” Leah shared during a recent interview. “Reciprocal IVF gave us the gift of sharing biology, love, and motherhood in a way we never imagined.”
An Emotional Pregnancy and Birth
Sandy, who’s known for steering some of the world’s largest superyachts under intense pressure, described pregnancy as the most vulnerable and empowering experience of her life. “There’s nothing quite like feeling your child move inside you,” she said. “I’ve captained ships across the globe, but nothing compares to this journey.”
The couple kept much of the pregnancy private, choosing to focus on their health and emotional connection. However, they’ve now opened up about their experience to offer inspiration to other same-sex couples considering parenthood.
“It’s important that people see stories like ours,” said Leah. “Families come in all forms, and love is what makes a family — not biology alone.”
A New Chapter Begins
While they haven’t yet shared the baby’s name publicly, fans and fellow Bravo stars have flooded their social media pages with congratulations and messages of support. Castmates from Below Deck and other Bravo franchises have expressed their excitement, with many calling the news “beautiful,” “inspiring,” and “a milestone for representation.”
Sandy and Leah say they’re focused on navigating their new roles as moms, with plans to take some well-deserved time off to bond as a family. Still, Sandy insists she’s not done with the sea just yet.
“I’ll be back,” she laughed. “But for now, my most important crew is right here at home.”
Representation and Hope for the Future
The couple’s journey has already sparked important conversations around LGBTQ+ parenting, reciprocal IVF, and the evolving definition of modern families. By choosing to speak out, Sandy and Leah are helping to break down barriers and create space for more love, more options, and more inclusion in parenthood.
“This is only the beginning,” Sandy said. “We hope our story shows others what’s possible when love leads the way.”
