A Florida couple, Tiffany Score and Steven Mills, are at the centre of a distressing legal battle after discovering that their recently born daughter, Shea, is not biologically related to them. The mix-up, which has attracted significant media attention, began when they sought help from the Fertility Center of Orlando, where they underwent in vitro fertilisation (IVF) treatment with the assistance of Dr. Milton McNichol.
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Since learning about the situation, which has dramatically altered their journey into parenthood, numerous individuals have approached the couple, suggesting they could be connected to Shea through genetic ties. According to their attorney, Jack Scarola, the search for Shea’s biological parents has commenced, with many families expressing their belief that they might be the child’s genetic relatives.
The couple, both of whom are White, expressed immediate confusion upon Shea’s birth in December, as the infant did not resemble either of them. This led to inquiries and ultimately the filing of a lawsuit, as concerns mounted over how this incident could have occurred and over the wellbeing of their own frozen embryos, which were created during their IVF treatment.
Scarola revealed that the legal teams have received inquiries from several people, some suggesting they might be Shea’s biological parents, while others questioned the genetic status of children born via IVF at the same clinic. The clinic has been advised that genetic testing is the only way to accurately confirm these familial connections.
The court has mandated that the clinic first provide complimentary genetic testing for patients who underwent embryo implantation in April 2025, coinciding with the time when Score and Mills became aware of the complications. Results from tests carried out for one couple are anticipated by the first week of March. A second group of around 20 patients who had embryo harvesting in March 2020 will also undergo testing next, raising further questions about the fate of their embryos.
Concerns for the couple extend beyond Shea’s parentage, as they anxiously await confirmation regarding their own frozen embryos. According to Scarola, their IVF process resulted in the storage of one viable male embryo alongside two female embryos. The uncertainty concerning their male embryo has left them anxious about the potential existence of their biological child within another family.
As the case advances, Scarola highlighted that the legal proceedings have been slow, but the court has scheduled weekly hearings to expedite developments. However, privacy issues have emerged as a point of contention, with lawyers for the clinic and Dr. McNichol noting that some IVF patients may prefer confidentiality regarding their treatments and results.
Despite the emotional turmoil surrounding their unexpected situation, Score and Mills have formed a strong bond with their daughter and are enjoying the early stages of parenthood. Scarola emphasised the family’s pressing concerns, citing the possibility that custody could be awarded to Shea’s biological parents at any time. He remarked, “Every day counts for this family,” acknowledging that Shea recently celebrated her two-month milestone.
Recognising the complexity of their predicament, Score and Mills have expressed a desire to locate their child’s genetic parents. Additionally, Scarola indicated they may broaden their search if necessary, saying, “We are praying for miracles.” To assist with the financial burdens associated with the ongoing searches and their potential future IVF treatments, Score’s sister has established a GoFundMe campaign.
As developments unfold, the couple faces the next status hearing scheduled for March 4, holding onto hope for clarity and resolution in an ever-complicated situation.