Converting transparent gradients from Word text boxes

I have a complex Word document I am trying to convert to PDF. It has background images and overlaid text boxes with both text and colored fill effects at partial transparency gradients so the background image comes through.
 
When I try to convert (either with Print to PDF or clicking the Create PDF button), the text box gradients come out as opaque in the PDF file so neither the text nor the background image is visible. I can see the background image as a layer beneath the text box while the document is loading, but not once it is loaded. Help!
 
Thanks,
Julie