A young Michigan couple has given their newborn a name filled with gratitude and meaning. Jakob and Mikayla, who were recipients of Matthew and Kelly Stafford’s IVF grant, recently welcomed a baby boy — and chose to name him Stafford Torrey. The heartfelt decision serves as a lasting nod to the Los Angeles Rams quarterback and his wife, whose compassion helped make their dream of becoming parents come true.
The Brilora Fertility Foundation shared the joyful announcement on social media, writing, “Welcome to the world, Baby Stafford — your story is already lighting the way for others.” For the Staffords, it was a beautiful reminder of the real impact their generosity has had on families.
A Gift Born from Their Own Journey
Matthew and Kelly Stafford are now proud parents of four daughters, but the road to building their family wasn’t always easy. Years ago, the couple struggled with infertility and eventually turned to in vitro fertilization (IVF) to conceive their twins. That experience profoundly changed their perspective — inspiring them to help other couples facing the same challenges.
In partnership with IVF Michigan & Ohio Fertility Centers and the Chosen Fertility Group, they launched the Stafford IVF Grant. The program covers the full cost of one IVF cycle — including lab fees, monitoring, anesthesia, and up to $3,000 worth of medication. For many hopeful parents, the grant removes an enormous financial barrier and offers a chance they might not otherwise have.
Kelly Stafford, who serves as the board chair of Chosen Fertility, has made it her mission to ensure no couple feels isolated during the infertility process. She frequently speaks at awareness events and reminds audiences that roughly one in six couples experience similar struggles — a message that has helped break the silence and stigma surrounding the issue.
The Baby Who Carries Their Name
When Jakob and Mikayla learned they had been selected for the Stafford IVF grant, they knew it would change their lives. Months later, their IVF journey led to the birth of a healthy baby boy — and they decided to name him Stafford Torrey as a tribute to the couple whose kindness made his life possible.
After the foundation posted the news online, heartfelt messages flooded in from fans and families who have been inspired by the Staffords’ story. The announcement struck a special chord in Michigan, where Matthew spent over a decade as the beloved quarterback of the Detroit Lions before joining the Los Angeles Rams.
A Legacy Beyond the Game
Now in his 17th NFL season, Matthew Stafford continues to lead the Rams with the grit and determination that have defined his career. While he’s already earned a Super Bowl ring and a reputation for his remarkable comebacks, the difference he and Kelly are making off the field may be his greatest achievement.
Together, the couple has poured their time and resources into causes that matter — from funding education centers in Detroit and supporting children’s hospitals to establishing the IVF grant that has given countless families hope.
Their openness about their struggles has resonated deeply with fans. The Staffords have shown that even public figures face personal challenges, and through their honesty and compassion, they’ve turned their pain into purpose. For many, the name “Stafford” now represents something far greater than football — it represents hope, love, and second chances.
Stafford Family Highlights
Met at the University of Georgia and married in 2015
Parents to four daughters: Sawyer, Chandler, Hunter, and Tyler
Founded the Stafford IVF Grant to support couples battling infertility
Honored when a grant recipient named their son Stafford Torre
Matthew Stafford has built his football legacy on leadership and resilience — but stories like this show that his most meaningful victories are happening far away from the field.
