Sharon Hayes sought fertility assistance in 1989 from Claypool, an obstetrician and gynecologist in Spokane, Washington, after struggling to conceive with her then-husband.
Sharon Hayes, 67, from Hauser, Idaho, is taking legal action against her former fertility doctor, Dr. David R. Claypool, alleging that he covertly used his sperm for her insemination 34 years ago
She specifically requested an anonymous donor based on selected traits. Claypool charged $100 per treatment, claiming the funds supported students who donated sperm.
Last year, Sharon Hayes’ 33-year-old daughter, Brianna Hayes, discovered her biological parentage through DNA testing on the 23andMe website. Brianna expressed her shock and described the revelation as an identity crisis. She also learned of at least 16 half-siblings in the area. It remains uncertain if other women are pursuing legal action against Claypool.
Efforts to reach Claypool were unsuccessful, and his lawyer, Drew Dalton, refrained from commenting. The matter was reportedly in mediation, but Claypool asserted no knowledge of the allegations or Sharon Hayes, stating he ceased practice in 2005.
The case is part of a growing trend of “fertility fraud” cases amid the proliferation of online DNA services
Last year, over 50 U.S. fertility doctors were accused of misconduct related to donated sperm. A Netflix documentary highlighted an Indiana specialist who secretly fathered numerous children through insemination.
In a lawsuit, Sharon Hayes alleges fraud, failure to obtain proper consent, and violation of consumer protection laws. RJ Ermola, Hayes’ attorney, emphasized Claypool’s deception in charging for his sperm while claiming it was from a donor. Brianna Hayes, though pleased to connect with half-siblings, has not met Claypool and sought genetic information for health insights unrelated to her mother’s family history. Sharon Hayes is reportedly struggling with the situation, burdened by guilt despite her efforts to be a loving mother.
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