I had an abortion when I was 15 years old. After my abortion, I went to college, served in AmeriCorps, worked with at-risk teens, traveled the globe, and left the country to work with youth abroad. My life has been so full and so beautiful, and I am fortunate to have been able to make all of my choices, to have followed every one of my dreams. I did not allow myself to be trapped by an unwanted pregnancy before I was even old enough to take care of myself, and that choice was the foundation for all of the rest.
1997
Hoe voelde je je over de abortus?
grateful, fortunate, committed
How did you do the abortion?
I had a twilight procedure at the Bread & Roses Woman's Health Center in Clearwater, Florida. Everyone was kind to me, from the waiting room to the recovery room. The procedure itself was painless, and a nurse held my hand through everything.
What was your situation at this time?
I was fifteen years old. I didn't want to be a mother while I was still a child.
Hoe reageerden andere mensen op je abortus?
My family was disappointed that I was pregnant, but they supported my abortion. My boyfriend's family did as well. I think they were all a bit relieved. Teen parenting is hard on young mothers and new grandparents alike.