THE BABY WHO changed the world!
New Idea|November 18, 2024
A COMPELLING NEW FILM TELLS LOUISE'S INSPIRING STORY
Keeley Henderson
THE BABY WHO changed the world!

When British couple John and Lesley Brown welcomed their daughter Louise into the world on July 25, 1978, it was the happiest day of their lives. But for many other couples, the little girl's birth was the miracle they'd also been praying for.

Louise was the first baby ever to be born through in vitro fertilisation (IVF). She was delivered via caesarean section by Professor Patrick Steptoe, who suggested to John and Lesley that they give their precious daughter the middle name Joy.

"He said my birth would bring joy and hope to childless people around the world - it has!" Louise, now 46, says.

The incredible events leading up to Louise's birth form the basis of the new film, Joy, which premieres on Netflix on Friday, November 22.

It follows Professor Steptoe, embryologist Jean Purdy and physiologist Robert Edwards as they struggle to develop IVF.

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