Why SMARTPath Fertility Intl. Puts Ethics First
- Kristi C.
- Aug 2
- 3 min read
Behind every surrogacy journey is a heart, a dream, and a family. At SMARTPath Fertility Intl., we honor that by protecting our Intended Parents and Gestational Carriers with the highest care, transparency, and love.
There’s no way to sugarcoat this: parts of the surrogacy world are broken. And recent events in California have made that heartbreakingly clear.
A Scandal in Arcadia, California
In July 2025, authorities uncovered a shocking situation at a $4 million mansion in Arcadia, California. Inside, they found 21 children, all reportedly born through surrogacy. The babies ranged in age from infants to toddlers. (ABC7, Wall Street Journal)
Some of these children were living in troubling conditions. One infant was hospitalized with traumatic head injuries, allegedly sustained under the care of a nanny. Security footage reportedly captured the abuse, leading to a warrant for the nanny’s arrest. (CBS News)
Fifteen children were found in the mansion; the others were located at separate residences. All have since been placed in foster care.
The Agency Connection
The case is tied to an agency once known as Mark Surrogacy Investment LLC, now rebranded as Future Spring Surrogacy. (New York Post)
One surrogate, Kayla Elliott, went public with her story on TikTok. She says she was promised a legitimate surrogacy journey but later discovered she was one of several women carrying embryos for the same intended parents at the same time. After giving birth, she was cut off from communication. The baby she carried was later placed into state custody.
Elliott confirmed that the FBI interviewed her and is now reaching out to other surrogates who delivered—or are still pregnant—for the same couple. (CBS News, ABC10)
Why This Matters
This isn’t just a scandal.
It’s someone’s baby.
Someone’s pregnancy.
Someone’s body.
Someone’s trust.
When surrogacy works, it’s miraculous. But when corners are cut—when money is mishandled, when ethics take a backseat—it leaves devastation in its wake.
How SMARTPath Protects Intended Parents
At SMARTPath Fertility Intl., our IPs are never left to wonder or worry.
We ensure:
Licensed, bonded escrow only — your money is always protected.
Independent legal counsel for every family — no shared lawyers, ever.
Transparent costs — no hidden fees, no surprise invoices.
Dedicated case coordinators who update you at every milestone.
Clinic-level medical oversight — we partner only with reputable, ethical clinics.
Your path to parenthood is safeguarded from start to finish.
How SMARTPath Honors Surrogates
Our GCs are the heart of every journey.
We protect and support them by:
Covering lost wages, childcare, travel, and wellness needs.
Ensuring independent legal representation so they always have their own advocate.
Providing personalized support coordinators who check in regularly.
Creating a community of empowerment and appreciation, where their gift is respected.
When you carry for another family, we carry you.
The SMARTPath Difference
The Arcadia case is a wake-up call. Families deserve better. Surrogates deserve better. Babies deserve better.
At SMARTPath Fertility Intl., we believe surrogacy is more than contracts and logistics. It’s about people, dreams, and love. Every parent deserves peace of mind. Every surrogate deserves care and respect. And every baby deserves to come into the world surrounded by safety and joy.
That’s why we put compassion at the center of every step. Because for us, this isn’t just a process. It’s a promise.
With SMARTPath, you’re not just starting a surrogacy journey. You’re becoming part of a family that will protect, support, and celebrate you — every single step of the way.
Every miracle starts with trust. Discover how SMARTPath can help you take the first step.
Disclaimer
This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as legal, medical, or financial advice. Always consult with qualified professionals before making decisions regarding surrogacy, fertility treatment, or legal contracts.
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