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It was another tense and dramatic episode of ITV’s Deal or No Deal, hosted by Stephen Mulhern, but contestant Ush left viewers moved more by her personal story than by the outcome of the game. Despite losing out on the £100,000 jackpot, Ush’s candid account of her battle with infertility and eventual success through IVF resonated deeply with audiences.

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Ush’s Heartbreaking but Inspiring IVF Journey

Before the game began, Ush brought several “lucky items” to her seat, including a small star symbolizing hope and a heartfelt letter from her daughter. The letter contained numbers her daughter had chosen for her mother to play, adding an emotional layer to the already nerve-wracking contest.

When Mulhern asked about her children, Ush became emotional and revealed her journey:

• At age 23, she lost her fallopian tubes due to endometriosis and was told she would never have children.
• Refusing to accept defeat, she pursued IVF treatment and was fortunate to conceive her daughter on the first attempt.
• Later, she welcomed her son through IVF as well, describing herself as “very lucky” and emphasizing: “Without hope, there is nothing.”

Her story reflects the broader reality faced by thousands of women in the UK. According to the NHS, around 1 in 7 couples may struggle with infertility, and IVF has become a vital pathway to parenthood for many families (BBC News, NHS).

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The Game: Highs and Lows

Ush’s game started with promise, eliminating several low-value boxes early. However, she quickly lost the £75,000 and then the £100,000 prize, despite rejecting a strong offer from The Banker.

She attempted to change tactics by using her daughter’s chosen numbers, but luck was not on her side. By the end, she was left with just £100. Mulhern reminded her: “Remember, you got the one thing you never thought you could, a family,” before giving her a supportive hug.

This moment underscored the emotional depth of the show, which often blends high-stakes gameplay with human stories.

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Audience Reaction

Viewers praised Ush’s courage in sharing her journey. Social media comments highlighted admiration for her resilience, with one fan writing: “She may not have won money, but she won hearts today.”

The episode also sparked wider conversations about IVF and infertility awareness. As The Guardian has reported, public openness about fertility struggles helps reduce stigma and encourages others to seek support (The Guardian, 2024).

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Looking Ahead

While Ush didn’t secure a financial windfall, her story added a powerful human dimension to Deal or No Deal. The show continues to search for its next big winner, but Ush’s episode will be remembered for its emotional impact rather than its monetary outcome.

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Sources:

• BBC News – IVF and fertility treatment
• NHS – Fertility problems
• The Guardian – IVF awareness and stigma

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