The problem, apparently, was mathematical: a minuscule level of antibody still showing up in my friend’s blood ― and a little-known FDA regulation stating that before a man can become a sperm donor, any related infection must be effectively treated. His had been, but, given the way the clinic’s policies were written, he was nonetheless being denied. I would need to find another donor, preferably an anonymous one from our local sperm bank ― someone my child would likely never meet.

Ah the FDA, jamming dangerous shots into children for no reason is A OK but this? Fuck no.