Startraks

Here in Manhattan, there are certain things people we worship. Iconic people. Fashionistas, actors, news media, ridiculously smart and successful people in the world of the arts, business, architecture, etc.

These people are not held by the standards of the nouveau riche and do not include who has upgraded their Park Ave. apartment. It’s not about who they’re wearing or what bling they’re blinging (do not be fooled, my friend — Manhattanites don’t always live the superficial red carpet romps a la Real Housewives of New York). Celeb sightings at The Waverly Inn, exclusive restaurant known for its A-list clients in the West Village, and oohing and aahing are quite ordinary but as for the extraordinary? Someone who’s talented and has wrenched their abilities in the light is what we’re talking about here.

Enter Sarah Jessica Parker. I first saw SJP on Broadway when she starred in Annie! The fact that this entertainment powerhouse has survived and thrived for decades and is a mastermind behind bringing Carrie Bradshaw to life a la Sex and the City is not surprising. Miss Fashionista (and I say that with all due respect, that woman is a style guru!) is establishing a new rule in parenting. She’s forging her own path. Sarah Jessica and hubby Matthew Broderick are now the parents of twin girls via a surrogate!

I find it quite fascinating, actually. I wrote a piece on surrogacy last summer when Marisa Jaret Winokur had a surrogate when her son was born. In fact, I’m trying to give the word the proper respect it deserves: is it “used” a surrogate? “Hired” a surrogate? “Enlisted” a surrogate? Hmmmm.

There are important rules and regulations couples go through when selecting a surrogate and each situation is different. Some surrogates have contact with the baby after birth, others completely do not. Contracts are devised, agreed upon, and signed. Medical bills are paid, sometimes they’re not depending on the agreed-upon arrangement prior to pregnancy. While situations differ, it’s impressive and amazing for the woman who has fame and fortune: the gift of life seems to be more precious and prized than them all.

Do you think surrogacy doesn’t get enough press other than the headlines based around celebs?