Article by Membership Coordinator, Emily Doran
I first met Jennifer Davis when we both attended the Mothers of Brentwood’s annual Mother’s Day Brunch a few years ago. We walked in at the same time and realized we were both new. We ended up sitting together, and I was instantly drawn into her story and her strength. The more I know her, the more impressed I am. Jennifer is mom to Zoe (8) and Logan (6), and has been married to Steve for 11 years.
What made you decide to move to Brentwood?
I took time off after each of my kid’s births, 5 1/2 years total. When it was time to return to my job, we wanted to be within an hour drive from SFO airport. I had a good friend living in Brentwood and noticed how great it was for families.
Why did you join the MOB?
Every city I’ve lived in I’ve joined the mom’s group. I love being social, so it was a top priority for me.
How does Brentwood work for your family?
There are plenty of parks and shopping and the city is laid out well for families. I also like the weather (less fog and moisture than the peninsula, which is where I grew up). Also the cost of living compared to other parts of the Bay Area is great!
You’ve been through infertility, tell me about your journey…
I had a career but didn’t meet that ‘one person’ until I was 36 yrs old. I met Steve in Nashville and we planned on having a family right away but with no success. Altogether, I ended up doing 3 IUIs and 6 IVF’s. I had to take shots to prepare my body for each process. It took approximately 1 year of treatment (5 cycles) before I was pregnant with Zoe. It did not get easier with Logan! Between the kids, I miscarried twins. We had one last hope using IVF. I got pregnant with our one last frozen embryo.
A lot of people told me to ‘just stop trying’ and then I’d get pregnant. But I knew I couldn’t give up. Logan, was born when I was 43 years old.
My mom passed away when I was 15 from lung cancer… she was a heavy smoker. As you can imagine, I was very sad, but eventually I had to figure out the next steps in my life and move on. It taught me that you can mourn, and you should, but you have to keep going. Life goes on and there is too much to be happy about! At times I lost patience and I got frustrated, but I just kept reminding myself that I was doing the best I could. Thankfully it all came together.
How do you juggle being a pilot and raising kids?
I’ve been with United for almost 20 years. So, I am a very senior 737 First Officer. I get to pick my flying days for the month and it’s very flexible. In 2017, I was eligible to become Captain (Left seat). I have chosen to delay the upgrade because as a Junior Captain, my schedule would be ‘reserve’…(a reserve pilot means on call or phone available for trips). I wouldn’t be able to choose my days off and therefore, wouldn’t be there as much for my kids. I’m choosing the flexibility of 737 First Officer, Captain will come in due time. Life is a balance.
How did you handle your cancer diagnosis and treatment?
I couldn’t change it, so I had to make the most of it. At times, I didn’t feel my best, so I relied on my family and friends. My husband Steve loves me unconditionally. I knew if I asked him for something, I could count on him. It’s important to have that support. After school daycare was also a blessing, especially during my bad weeks. I didn’t hold anything back from the kids and I was honest and reassured them. I told them that I wasn’t going to die, but that I would be feeling sick and might not be as lovey as I usually am. I made sure we got a lot of hugs in when one of us was having a ‘bad day’.
I admire how positive you’ve been through it all, any tips on staying optimistic? Maybe it’s how I was brought up. We didn’t have a lot of money; our vacations were our grandma’s house and camping. I feel lucky to have what I have. With my past hardships, I’ve tried to stay practical. This is how I’ll try to face any roadblocks that comes up in the future. I’ll look at the honest truth and I make a plan. I know I can always make adjustments as they come up. From previous experience, I have a sense I won’t give up too easily.
What do you always carry in your purse?
Baby wipes, cell phone, car keys, lipstick
Favorite restaurant in town?
Black Angus- I love their chef salad with steak.
What’s the best part of being a mom?
All their unconditional love for me. When they call me ‘mommy’ my heart melts! I do love guiding them to be the best they can be in life.
