Elanit-
Wow, we really are living parallel lives... I'm 36 on Jan. 4. You said 'almost'... when is your birthday?
To answer your question, I always tell my husband that even if I wanted to go back to NYC, we can't, because we couldn't afford IVF there. In Israel, it really is free. The most you have to pay for are the shots, which probably run, the most, 1000 shekel per cycle. That's the absolute most, really. This is our second cycle, and 'machzika etzba'ot', I'm 6w3d, and have my first scan on sunday!
You have been through so much and it seems hopeless, but it really isn't. It will work out in the end, I really believe that. Also, you did get pregnant once, even with your low egg count. So it will happen again. Did you try acupuncture? I did acupuncture this cycle, and I highly recommend it. I know women much older than us who did not succeed until they tried acupuncture in conjunction with IVF. Anyway, my egg response was also kind of low, but it doesn't matter. You only need one. (I had 2 really good ones transferred, no frozens). I also went through the laparoscopy and a failed cycle, and it's hard, yes. I cried so much when the surgeon told us that my tubes were so damaged that IVF was our only hope. I felt so empty, but I believe there is a reason for everything, and that helped me go on. I realize now there are so many women like us, and we will just appreciate our little babies even more once they are in our arms.
Listen, I am really here for you if you ever need to vent or discuss this. It is very helpful to have other women who understand what you've been through and are going through. Anyway, lots of luck to you! I pray that all "mishalot libech" will be fulfilled soon.
Shari