I became absorbed in strangers’ fertility journeys online

What started as curiosity would turn into an emotional investment - and eventually, a lifeline

A few nights ago, my phone lit up with a TikTok notification: WE'RE PREGNANT". The message wasn't from a friend. It was from an Australian couple, complete strangers. But social media knows me well because I felt something sharp and bright - joy and relief - for people I will never meet.

It's strange to feel deeply for someone you've never spoken to, whose life is about as geographically far from yours as possible. But I was thrilled to see this pregnancy announcement, shared with millions, from someone I only knew through a few carefully curated moments. As someone who is fundamentally nosy - I will never not notice a baby on board" badge or make up backstories for strangers - social media has always offered an irresistible window into other people's lives.