Carlton star Sam Docherty’s wife Natalie reveals IVF journey during cancer battle

On her first Mother’s Day, Carlton star Sam Docherty’s wife Natalie has revealed how the pair’s journey to have baby Ruby was the light at the end of the tunnel.

Natalie Docherty with baby Ruby. Picture: Wayne Taylor

Natalie Docherty will take a moment to reflect with gratitude on her first Mother’s Day.

The wife of Carlton star Sam Docherty — who has twice battled and overcome testicular cancer — has revealed for the first time how he’s been a pillar of support during her pregnancy journey.

She gave birth to their daughter Ruby four months ago after going through IVF.

“It wasn’t the easiest journey and we weren’t sure whether to tell people but we did it when Sam went through chemotherapy,’’ Natalie said.

Sam Docherty and wife Nat had baby Ruby via IVF. Picture: Instagram

“We wanted to have something positive to look towards and we were lucky to get a few embryos and it was a decision we made at the time. When things were happening we kept it tight-knit until we were out the other side.

“Everyone’s journey is different and it’s very complex but the more who talk about it the more it helps. During that time Sam was leaning on me but he’s really supported me and he’s so determined.”

Sam, who was first diagnosed in 2020 and then 2021, revealed last month he’d had another setback after undergoing surgery for a benign tumour in his abdomen in December.

It’s Natalie’s first Mother’s Day with Ruby.

Sam runs out with Ruby. Picture: Instagram

“It was just a spot the surgeons were watching for some time, it was part of his second diagnosis which was stage four’’ Natalie said.

“We thought we’d get it done around Christmas time but we kept it quiet for a bit while he recovered and I was pregnant. The surgery was a lot harder than they expected, just the position of the benign mass. It’s nice to be in the clear now. My fingers are always crossed, you just never know what life will throw at you.”

Natalie says Ruby, who is a mini version of Sam, was a ray of a light at the perfect time.

Last weekend Sam carried her through the banner for his 150th game.

Sam has fought through two cancer battles. Picture: Instagram

“She loves her sleep like Sam and she loves the footy too,’’ Natalie said.

“It was such a special moment. Since he found out I was pregnant he envisioned that moment. When you see dads run out with their kids, as a career to share that with their daughter or son, it’s really special.

“I always knew he’d be a very hands on dad. He’ll come home, put his bags down and he’ll go straight into dad mode. It’s a light at the end of the tunnel as it hasn’t been easy.”