National Abortion Federation Blog: Saporta Reporter
| News about reproductive choice from the President and CEO of the National Abortion Federation, Vicki Saporta. |
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We continue to mourn the loss of our friend and colleague, Dr. George Tiller. Dr. Tiller was a dedicated physician who provided quality abortion care to women, at great personal sacrifice and risk. He is truly a hero to his fellow abortion providers and his patients. Dr. Tiller’s office is filled with letters from women, thanking him for the excellent, compassionate care he provided. Many of these women say Dr. Tiller saved their lives.
Since his tragic death, we have received messages from some of his patients and from people around the world who are saddened and outraged. We feel it is important to share these words and tributes to our beloved colleague and friend. For the first time, we will enable comments on our blog so that all of you can share your condolences or offer memories of Dr. Tiller. We invite you to join us in honoring a true American hero, Dr. George Tiller.
Post your comments, condolences, and personal memories of Dr. Tiller
Wednesday's Words from Women
 Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we will be featuring real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.I am currently separated from my spouse. He is not dependable right now, and has not been for the last year. I do not doubt my ability to love and support a child, but I do doubt my ability to financially provide. If it’s a struggle to pay for this service, how can I expect to provide basics? I cannot imagine the lifetime struggle I would have faced if this option were not here. I now can continue my life for the child I already have. I know I can support her, and I can look forward to a healthy, loving supportive relationship that may bless me again with a child.
--Submitted by Rae* through a member clinicWhen I found out I was pregnant, I was very scared and I did not know what I was going to do. I knew that I wasn’t capable of taking care of a child at this time. Knowing that there are still caring people in the world who want to help you get through such a tough thing really means the world to me. Thank you for your kindness and understanding. --Submitted by Kristina* through a member clinicLabels: patient stories, wednesday's words from women
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Wednesday's Words from Women
Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we will be featuring real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.The clinic and the Hotline made a big difference in my life. My boyfriend and I are both unemployed and knew that having a child at this point in my life would be very difficult. The clinic and Hotline’s assistance have allowed me to pursue my dreams.
--Submitted by Nadine* through a member clinicI have a five-year-old daughter and since she was born my whole life has been geared towards her safety and happiness. Now that I am a mother, my views have changed on what women’s rights are and how we need to protect them. If anything bad ever happened to my daughter and an unexpected pregnancy was the result…I would just die if someone was able to just snap their fingers and decide what was best for her future without knowing or caring about how she felt. I am and always will be pro-choice because of my beautiful baby girl. --Submitted by Jessica* through our website
*Names changed to protect patient privacyLabels: patient stories, wednesday's words from women
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Wednesday's Words from Women
Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we will be featuring real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.The clinic has really helped me in many ways. They helped me to make the right decision and to understand that I’m a good person. They helped me to realize that I don’t have to be ready to have a baby. I don’t have to rush things just because of what other people say. They helped me to become a woman and know what’s right for me, and it’s not that hard with the help of the clinic and the Hotline.
--Submitted by Cindy* through a member clinicI became pregnant only one year after the birth of my first child. I do not have the means to support a second child nor do I believe that it would be fair to my son to have another so soon. I was raised in a Unitarian Universalist family and we were brought up to be pro-choice. I knew that abortion was the safest and best option for me at this time. --Submitted by Ellen* through our website*Names changed to protect patient privacyLabels: patient stories, wednesday's words from women
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Wednesday's Words from Women
Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we will be featuring real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.I have two sets of twins, both delivered via C-section. The second delivery was extremely difficult due to severe scar tissue. My doctor informed me this pregnancy could take my life or leave me with severe complications. I have four small children, two seven-year-olds and two eight-year-olds, and I could not risk not being there to watch them grow up and share their lives.
--Submitted by Karen* through a member clinicAfter the pregnancy test came back positive, I knew that I was going to get an abortion. I'm only 21; I'm too young to be a mom, and I don't have the money to support myself and a child. I'm still in college, and I don't want to drop out and end an art career that had yet to start. Not to mention the man involved was no longer in my life. He's also still in college, and I didn't want to put the burden on him of paying child support and student loans. It wouldn't be fair to either of us. I went to a clinic outside of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The first visit there was for a sonogram and to find out my blood type. One of my best friends went with me for support. I love her so much for going with me. My next visit was for the actual procedure. I'm lucky that my mom was understanding; she went with me so that she could drive me home. The staff at the clinic is just amazing; they made sure that I understood the procedure and what was going to happen after. They also had a counselor for me to talk to about the abortion. I know this was the right choice for me. It was the hardest thing I've ever had to go through, but I'll never regret my decision. I'm just thankful that my close friends and my mom were there for me to help get me through everything. --Submitted by Abigail* through our website*Names have been changed to protect patient privacyLabels: patient stories, wednesday's words from women
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Wednesday's Words from Women
Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we will be featuring real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.I chose this decision because I always wanted to bring kids into a better world, one where I would be married to the man I was having kids with, not separated. I wanted to be caught up on my bills and prepared for having kids. It was a hard decision to make, but in my life right now it is the best decision for me. --Submitted by Avery* through a member clinicGrowing up I went to a private Presbyterian high school with devotions and Bible class every day along with chapel every Sunday. One of the most exciting events for the school was when we all caravanned to the capitol to march in a pro-life parade once a year. I always did it, but deep down I knew I felt differently. I was about to graduate college when I became pregnant. I saw a little plus sign on the stick, picked up my phone, and made an appointment. When the day came I was nervous but ready. In the waiting room I met a mother of two. She didn’t have access to care where she lived in Nashville and had to drive a long way to obtain an abortion. Another girl chimed in that she was from Macon, Georgia. Their stories came as a shock to me because these women had to travel so far and pay so much to get care that I was able to access so easily due to my insurance and location. The clinic was extraordinary, they offered counseling and the entire office was comfortable. I felt a light bulb go off waiting for the doctor. Two years previously I had gone through a rape trial that had dragged out for years, and my rapist was only sentenced to one year. There my rights were almost nothing, whereas here at the clinic, I felt empowered—everything mattered and my choice was supported. I was put under anesthesia for 30 minutes and then it was over. The only discomfort I felt was minor cramping, and the relief was extraordinary. I left feeling happier than I had felt in years for many reasons. The biggest reason was that this was the first major decision I had made myself. I now knew that I was in control of my life and decisions.
--Submitted by Mariah* through a member clinicNames have been changed to protect patient privacyLabels: patient stories, wednesday's words from women
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Wednesday's Words from Women
Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we will be featuring real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.My boyfriend and I are both college students in the Cleveland area, and I just finished my freshman year as an English major. Starting a career after graduation is very important to me. Though children are precious and my boyfriend and I would love to have them one day, now is not the time. It would be senseless for me to parent a child before I am financially or emotionally grounded. I greatly appreciate the Hotline’s help, because this procedure is essential to my future success. --Submitted by Grace* through a member clinicI am a single mother of two beautiful children, a girl and a boy, ages seven and nine. I recently returned to college to complete my bachelor’s of nursing. Though my boyfriend and I love each other very much, this is not the right time for a child. I have put my life on hold to ensure I can be around for my children. Now that they are older it’s time for me to finish what I started (college) so many years ago, so I may ensure a better future for myself and my children. I appreciate the help from the clinic and the Hotline. Thank you!
--Submitted by Angela* through a member clinic*Names have been changed to protect patient privacyLabels: patient stories, wednesday's words from women
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Wednesday's Words from Women
Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we will be featuring real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.I found out I was pregnant when I was reaching the end of an abusive relationship that was getting worse by the day. I went into the clinic one hundred percent sure of my decision. Had I not gone through with the abortion, I would have a person in my life who, to this day, would find any way he could to abuse me or destroy any relationship I was in. I would not be in school, and I would not be happy. Having the abortion was the fairest thing I could have done for myself. It's my body, my life, and my choice.
--submitted by Allison* through our websiteI was notified that the genetic test results showed some problems. After further testing (CVS), it was determined there were genetic abnormalities with the pregnancy. It was an agonizing decision to terminate my pregnancy but I believe it was the right decision to make. The heartache my fiancé and I feel over this whole situation has been lessened because the Hotline supported our right to self-determination emotionally. Thank you! --submitted by Mackenzie* through a member clinic*Names have been changed to protect patient privacyLabels: patient stories, wednesday's words from women
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Wednesday's Words from Women
Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we will be featuring real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.Right now is just not a good time to have another baby. I’m the only one working in a household of five. To bring another person into my household would be unfair to the unborn child and to others in the house. I am pro-choice because I think I should be able to decide what is right for me and my family--not people who don’t know me or my situation or who are going to judge me for my actions. All circumstances are different and accidents happen to women and families. I can’t tell you how much the Hotline and clinic are helping me today. I appreciate it so much--thank you to everyone that makes it possible.
--Submitted by Carol* through a member clinic.
*Name has been changed to protect patient privacyLabels: patient stories, wednesday's words from women
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Wednesday's Words from Women
Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we will be featuring real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.I am a full-time student carrying a 3.7 GPA, and the proud mother to a two-year-old, mildly autistic, special needs child with a severe seizure disorder. Having another child at this hectic and sometimes frightening stage in my life would do both children an injustice. I can’t tell the relief I felt following my abortion, when all was said and done and I was still healthy, and my beautiful son still happy. The staff at the clinic was respectful and amazingly helpful, and at no point did I feel pressured to do something that I didn’t want to do.
--submitted by Sandra* through a member clinicMy daughter suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after a violent rape. She will never be the same innocent girl she was. Her decision to have an abortion has not been an easy one. As my support has always been there, no one understands how hard, how much it hurts, or the confusion, unless you have walked in those shoes. The protesters that walk outside the building, with their shouts and their signs, have no clue about my daughter’s story. The clinic helped my daughter “walk where no woman wants to walk.” It was not planned and it was not her fault. Thank you to the Hotline for helping my daughter. --submitted by Loretta,* on behalf of her daughter Alexandra,* through a member clinic
*Names have been changed to protect patient privacyLabels: patient stories, wednesday's words from women
1 comments
This is very touching, it makes the perspective on abortion more clear when you hear stories of why women have an abortion. How horribly sad what this womans daughter has been through. I will never forgive a man who rapes a woman, ever!
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Wednesday's Words from Women
Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we will be featuring real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.Due to my situation, the clinic and the Hotline have been my life savers. I am a single mother of three, and at the time, I found myself in a very bad predicament. I am basically homeless and have no income. With the help of the clinic and Hotline, I am able to focus on getting my life back on track and providing for the children I already have. --submitted by Lynn* through a member clinicMy first semester in college, I was raped. A couple of weeks later, I took a pregnancy test and found out that the person who raped me had gotten me pregnant. I am pro-choice because if a girl ever has to go through something like that, they need the choice. If the choice is not out there, women will find other, less safe ways not to have a child.
--submitted by Gail* through a member clinic*Names have been changed to protect patient privacyLabels: patient stories, wednesday's words from women
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Wednesday's Words from Women
Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we will be featuring real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.The Hotline and the clinic helped me a great deal during this difficult time in my life. I am a single mom trying to move forward in my life. Due to financial hardships and no help from my child’s father, the light of success seems too dim to see. I thank the people at both the clinic and the Hotline for giving me and my son a chance for a clean slate. --submitted by Diana* through a member clinicI grew up in an anti-choice household, but ever since I was able to truly think through the issue, have been pro-choice. But like many beliefs, for most of my life it went untested. Then, last spring, I became pregnant and came face-to-face with my belief that women have the right to their own body, including the right to an abortion. I was 29, had a master's degree, was employed full-time and had a supportive network of friends and family. By some standards I had everything necessary to adequately take care of a child. But I wasn't ready. I had just ended an unhealthy relationship; I didn't want to be pregnant. I didn't want to have a child. It was and always will be my body. I made a choice that was best for me. My body, my choice, and thankfully still my legal right.
--submitted by Susan* through our website
*Names have been changed to protect patient privacyLabels: patient stories, wednesday's words from women
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NAF Member Shares Stories of Providers, Patients in New Book
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Wednesday's Words from Women
Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we will be featuring real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.I just want to start by saying, “Thank you.” If it wasn’t for the Hotline’s help, this would have never happened. I am 19 years old and I have two kids, a little girl that is two years old and a little boy that’s five months old. As you can see, I have my hands full at all times, and I can barely afford the two that I have now. It would have been really hard to have another. It hurts to do it, but I know it’s the best thing for my family. So thank you a lot for your help. It would have been really hard for me. I appreciate what the Hotline is doing for women like me, and I hope that it can help even more women.
--submitted by Jane* through a member clinic I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2006 at the age of 28. I am now 32 years of age, pregnant, and have a tumor growing in my uterus, and the doctors are concerned that it is cancerous. I have chosen to make this decision based on my health and the two boys that are already here that need me – alive! I have already given a baby up for adoption, so I know how that feels too. It wasn’t easy and neither is this decision. I did what’s best for my health and for my boys. -submitted by Justine* through a member clinic*Names have been changed to protect patient privacyLabels: patient stories, wednesday's words from women
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Wednesday's Words from Women
Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we will be featuring real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.I don’t know where to begin or start. This is a blessing to me as a single mother of two that was just laid off of work with no income at the time. I am so happy that the Hotline wants to help women. Thank you oh so much for the help and support! --submitted by Kate* through a member clinicWhen I was 22 years old, I was in an abusive relationship and already had a two-year-old daughter. I was working two jobs just to make ends meet without help from my parents, when I found out I was pregnant again. I had taken precautions and was on the birth control pill at the time. When I went to my boyfriend and told him, his reaction was not a positive one. His family was very anti-choice and knew I could not go to them for help. My mother and grandparents gave me the money to terminate my pregnancy; I knew if I did not, I was never going to be able to get out of the current relationship that I was in. After that, I was able to return to college, where I finished my nursing degree. I became a nurse, went to work at the same clinic that had helped me, and was able to help many other women in my same situation.
--submitted by Melissa* through our website*Names have been changed to protect patient privacyLabels: patient stories, wednesday's words from women
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Wednesday's Words from Women
Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we will be featuring real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.I’m 25 years old and the single mom to a six-year-old boy. My son and I live in low-income housing and I’m trying my best to finish college. Having a child at this point in my life would financially and psychologically impair me. Having the option and the right to make my own life choices, which not only affect me but my son as well, saves me from making desperate and/or drastic and dangerous decisions. --submitted by Vivian* through a member clinicI want to thank the clinic and Hotline, not only for giving women a second chance, but for understanding different circumstances. I was practicing safe sex when I got pregnant; even though I was being responsible, accidents do happen. I appreciate all of you so much from the bottom of my heart. --submitted by Mary* through a member clinic*Names have been changed to protect patient privacyLabels: patient stories, wednesday's words from women
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NAF Patients in the News
Last night, the Senate defeated the Nelson-Hatch Amendment, which would have imposed the same restrictions to insurance coverage for abortion as the Stupak-Pitts Amendment passed by the House. Yesterday, Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) cited some of our patient's stories during debate on the Senate floor. Today, Women’s eNews profiled one of the patients we brought forward to lobby against the Stupak-Pitts and Nelson-Hatch Amendments: One Woman Mobilized
One person who was mobilized by the Dec. 2 protest is Dana Weinstein.
In an exclusive interview with Women's eNews, Weinstein said that until recently she'd felt uncomfortable even uttering the word "abortion."
But then it happened to her.
In the early part of this summer, Weinstein was still a happily pregnant 38-year-old watching TV at her home in Maryland. A reporter interviewed a physician in Boulder, Colo., named Warren Hern. After the murder of Dr. George Tiller earlier this year, Hern is one of the country's last doctors who still provides late-term abortions.
"I remember lying in bed thinking, how could anybody terminate later term?"
Weinstein said.
But then, a few weeks later in late June, at 28 weeks, a routine sonogram showed an abnormality in her fetus's brain. A subsequent MRI showed that the fetus had two life-threatening conditions. If it survived birth, it would likely require immediate resuscitation and a life of feeding tubes.
After consulting more doctors, Weinstein and her husband wound up in Hern's clinic in Colorado.
Now, five months later, Weinstein is still fighting with her insurance company, hoping to be reimbursed for some of $17,500 it cost for the late-term abortion.
"I was fortunate to be able to pull the money together," Weinstein said, adding that the experience has spurred her to speak out on behalf of other, less fortunate women.
Her first move: vocally opposing the Stupak-Pitts amendment. In recent days Weinstein has shared her story with members of the National Abortion Federation, the staff of Sen. Barbara Mikulski, D-Md., and Women's eNews.
>Read the full article.>Share your abortion experience.Labels: anomaly, health care reform, patient stories
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This is so necessary! Way to go. This stigma needs to be crushed.
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Wednesday's Words from Women
Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we will be featuring real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.In the 17th week of a much wanted pregnancy, my baby was diagnosed via ultrasound with renal agenesis, a condition in which the kidneys, bladder and renal system fail to form, and which is incompatible with life. I was told that if I did not terminate the pregnancy, the baby would either be stillborn or, if he survived to term, he would be born and then very shortly thereafter die of asphyxiation (a functioning renal system is necessary for fetal lung development). I chose to terminate the pregnancy at 18 weeks via induced labor and delivery (which I was advised was a safe way to terminate a second trimester pregnancy and which would allow a full autopsy on the fetus to determine if there were any genetic problems). I was in the hospital for two days, during which time labor was induced and I delivered my baby. My health insurance covered the entire procedure. Had I not been insured, I would have incurred thousands of dollars in hospital-related bills. Honestly, I cannot imagine a health care system that would not pay for therapeutic abortions. Going through a therapeutic abortion is already emotionally wrenching and it would be a terribly cruel system that forces a woman to choose between carrying a child that will either certainly die or suffer terribly, versus being faced with thousands of dollars in medical bills that her family may be ill-equipped to pay. That is certainly is not caring for the health of myself and my family. -submitted by Madison* through our website*Names have been changed to protect patient privacyLabels: anomaly, health care reform, patient stories, wednesday's words from women
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Wednesday's Words from Women
Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we will be featuring real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.
I am pro-choice because being a feminist is one of the most fundamental pieces of who I am. I’m committed to fighting for policies that expand the possibilities of women’s choice. The Hotline has helped me to have my own choice, and for this I am very grateful. The clinic was the only place I contacted (and I contacted many!) where I found quality and care and I felt respected. Thank you. Both the Hotline and the clinic have made a huge difference. --submitted by Jordan* through a member clinicI have always been pro-choice, and I always kept myself informed as to what my options were when it came to reproductive health care. I never thought I would have to use the information on abortion until I found out I was pregnant. I am a 22-year-old college student who lives at home with her parents. I work as a waitress and my boyfriend works at a grocery store and plans to go to graduate school. There is no way we could have supported a child. From the time I found out I was pregnant to the time of the abortion, I threw up two to three times a day, every day. I hid my sickness from my parents and had to put on a happy face. It was so hard. I became depressed and frustrated because not only was I tired from being pregnant; I was also very weak from not being able to eat. If my parents ever knew I had an abortion, they would kick me out of the house and disown me. They told me this when I was a teenager. My boyfriend and I had only been going out for three months when we discovered we were pregnant. We both discussed our options and came to a conclusion quickly. Throughout the whole medical abortion, he was there every step of the way. We had to get a hotel room in order for me to have my medical abortion. With how sick and weak I was, there was no way I could have covered that up at my house or at his. I am so grateful to him. It scares me to think that there are 70-year-old men over in Washington DC who I have never met before, and probably never will, that could have had the chance to decide my life's path, and not me. No complete stranger should be able to take away my education and the life I dream of. I did it for my future. -- I did it because I was concerned that I would not be able to raise the child in the right way and give it everything it needed, and because as supportive as my boyfriend was, I did not know him well enough to ensure that we would be together forever. There are days where I still sometimes feel sad, because this was not an easy decision. But in my heart I know I did the right thing. --submitted by Alexa* through our website*Names have been changed to protect patient privacyLabels: patient stories, wednesday's words from women
2 comments
Thank you for being brave enough to share your story. I too am in the same position. Although My boyfriend and I have been together since I was 16, at 21 I am unable to support a child financially and emotionally. I find myself in moments of pure sadness, but I know in my heart I am doing the right thing, and I know that I am, and always will be a good person who had to make a really rough choice. This is not an easy decision, and its something nobody is ever happy about doing. Fortunantly I have a family who is behind me every step of the way, and that has made it a little bit easier. I found out I was pregnant only a few weeks ago. It came as a shock because I was still having a period, and my only indication was that I felt miserable,weak,felt full all the time, and was terribly nausious. 6 days after my discovery I went to planned parenthood, where I was there to recieve the medication abortion, it was there I was told I was pregnant with twins and I was 6 weeks along...it was the most devastating news in the world at that moment. They told me that one of the fetus' did not look as though it was going to take and would probubly not develope, but if I chose to continue with this pregnancy I would need to see a high risk specialist. That day I was denied the pill, and sent home to think it through for another week. Here I am typing right now awaiting wednesday....the date of my new apt. where I have chosen to undergo the medical procedure. This has been very trying time for me and my boyfried, and I often feel very alone. I just know that right now I need to complete college and become stable before i can offer a child a good life, and right now is not that time. I came across this site looking for comfort, and trying to feel less alone. Thank you for sharing your story. You don't know how much it has meant to me. Its good to know that there are other young women who can share a similar story.
I hate that I didn't see your comment sooner & that you are/were feeling so alone. While no one can make this decision for you, for what it's worth, I think you are doing the right thing. I made a similar decision many years ago, when I was about 2 years older than you. I'm 42 now, happily married with a son in his 1st year of college doing great. I can't say I've never been sad over my decision, but I don't regret it & I don't dwell on it. I did what was best for everyone involved. I hope you will have the same attitude/feelings. It gets easier. The first few weeks, there's the physical, emotional, & hormonal stuff to deal with, but that passes! Best of luck to you.
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Wednesday's Words from Women
Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we will be featuring real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.The clinic and the Hotline allowed me to make this decision truly on my own. The counseling really made me feel better about my decision. I am a full-time student close to graduation and having the procedure will help me achieve this. The entire staff was extremely helpful and made this day a lot easier to handle. Before today, I never imagined I would be here, but everyone here took a day that was really difficult to deal with and turned it into a day that was comfortable. They truly let me know that I wasn’t alone. --submitted by Rebecca* through a member clinicI am a single 28-year-old woman living in a homeless shelter. My primary source of income is a food stamp allowance of $200 a month, plus temporary work which is not steady. The Hotline and the clinic have really helped in making abortion accessible to low-income women who otherwise would’ve went through an unwanted and unplanned pregnancy. I have two children whom I cannot financially provide for the way that I should, and to have another would only complicate matters, as well as lessen the quality of life for both me and the child. My experience has been one of many lessons (prevention is worth an ounce of care). I am pro-choice because I believe in a quality of life for everyone involved. --submitted by Megan* through a member clinic*Names have been changed to protect patient privacyLabels: patient stories, wednesday's words from women
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Wednesday's Words from Women
Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we will be featuring real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.I just wanted to say thanks for being there not only for me, but for all the other women in need of assistance. I greatly appreciate it, and I hope the Hotline continues to help those who are less fortunate. --submitted by Molly* through a member clinicI am pro-choice because every situation is different. I am currently a mother of two small children and I am unemployed. Realistically speaking, I cannot afford another child. In this tough economy, it is hard for me to be able to provide necessities for my children now. Although situations may change as far as employment, it would not be a smart decision for me to bring another child into my unstable world. I appreciate the fact that I can choose a better path for my kid’s future. --submitted by Serena* through a member clinic
*Names have been changed to protect patient privacy
Labels: patient stories, wednesday's words from women
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Wednesday's Words from Women
Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we will be featuring real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.I am a young woman of 23. I’ve been married for three years and have two beautiful daughters under five years old. My family is my whole life, and I really do not know what I would do without them. I found out I was pregnant a short time ago and immediately knew we had a problem. My husband had just lost his job and we were slowly running out of money. We had just decided that we would have to move out of our home and in with my mother-in-law and brother-in-law. We now have six people living in a three bedroom apartment, still struggling with some government help, but making it work the best we can. My husband and I feel this is not the time to bring a new life into the world. We feel the hardship mentally and financially would only hurt our family. Without your help, we would not have been able to make the best possible decision for our family. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts. --submitted by Betty* through a member clinicMy husband was arrested for domestic violence about three weeks ago. This is the first time in 12 years of being with him that I am finally free. I found out I was pregnant after he was arrested and I was so disappointed. He never let me take birth control, nor would he use any protection. We have two girls, and he felt I owed him a son. If I wanted to go on something, he’d accuse me of cheating. There is a no contact order for one year from his case, but I believe he’d try to violate that if he knew I was pregnant. This procedure will finally help me put an end to this extremely painful chapter in my life. With your help, I’m finally able to end the hurt. I’m very grateful. I get my life back. --submitted by Andrea* through a member clinic
*Names have been changed to protect patient privacy
Labels: domestic violence, patient stories, wednesday's words from women
2 comments
Best of luck to you Andrea. Thank you for sharing your story. I am happy to hear that you will now be able to move into a happier chapter in your life! Be strong and know that your story inspires others to keep going.
Andrea,
You're a very brave woman & a good mother to have left such a terrible situation. You did what you had to do to save your lives & that's nothing to be ashamed of!!! Unfortunately, your (ex?)husband would have probably have began to abuse your children, too. If not physically, than certainly emotionally & mentally. Plus, had you stayed, they would have continued to learn that behavior & ended up in similar relationships & marriages. I went through 6 weeks of training to volunteer at a Spouse Abuse shelter. I answered the hotline, helped with new incoming women & their children assigning beds, clothes & toiletries if needed & did some counseling. So, I'm talking from experience when I say, no matter what he promises, no matter how charming he is, don't go back! And be very careful as far as your personal safety (make sure he isn't following/stalking you, etc.). Unfortunately, twice, I've seen men kill the women who left. Because "if they couldn't have them, no one else was going to". I wish you & your kids all the best in your new life, just be careful & don't hesitate to call the police if he breaks that order!! Happy Holidays!
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Wednesday's Words from Women
Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we will be featuring real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.I am a single mom who has been working diligently to provide for my daughter and get through school. I’ve always gotten by, but when a crisis comes up, it can be a challenge. I’ve had a lot of difficulty with birth control, including condoms. To know that someone cares enough to support me and others makes me feel a sense of relief. Thank you so much because now I know I can still survive and get the services I need to move on with my life with dignity. --submitted by Christine* through a member clinicMy story is probably similar to many women in the world today. Being physically abused by someone who claims to love you can have a detrimental effect on your life. Because you love this person, it’s so hard to leave. I had to leave or I would probably be dead. Having the option to have an abortion made a world of difference. The clinic saved my life. I owe you all so much. I will be forever grateful. --submitted by Barbara* through a member clinic
*Names have been changed to protect patient privacy
Labels: patient stories, wednesday's words from women, women
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Wednesday's Words from Women
Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we will be featuring real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.I just want to say thank you because without your help, I wouldn’t know what to do. I am a single mother of three daughters who I love more than anything in this world, but I know that bringing another child into this world would not be the best thing for me at this time in my life. This is the hardest thing I have ever had to do, but it makes it so much easier when you have someone to support you and the choice you’ve made. I know that the choice I have made is best for me. So again, I thank you for caring and understanding the decision that I made. Thank you. --submitted by Linda* through a member clinic
*Name has been changed to protect patient privacy
Labels: patient stories, wednesday's words from women, women
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Wednesday's Words from Women
 Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we will be featuring real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.
I thank you very much for your help from the Hotline. I’m currently unemployed with four children and a grandson to support. I’m terminating this pregnancy due to my poor health. My heart can’t handle a pregnancy so I really am thankful for your help. During this difficult time in my life, any help is greatly appreciated. Thank you.
--submitted by Sylvia* through a member clinic
The clinic and your Hotline have helped me tremendously. The clinic employees have been very friendly. I am very early in my pregnancy, and have been taking my regular medications on a daily basis and have researched the effects those meds have on an unborn child. I am also a full-time student and unemployed. When I decide to have children I want the pregnancy to be planned and healthy so I am able to give my child everything and more than what it needs.
--submitted by Aimee* through a member clinic
Labels: patient stories, wednesday's words from women, women
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Wednesday's Words from Women
 Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we will be featuring real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.I have a three-year-old son. I am pro-choice because I have to take care of the son I have here on this earth. I am in school and I work full-time. It is hard enough finding affordable child care for him. This was a hard choice to make, but I am confident that I made the right one. --submitted by Connie* through a member clinicYour Hotline helped give me the freedom of choice, and the help to make my choice possible. With your help, I’m able to make the decision that is physically, emotionally, and mentally right for me in this period of my life. I believe we all have choices. It would be selfish to continue a pregnancy that I’m not prepared or ready for. I’m pro-choice for this reason. Thank you for your help! --submitted by Kierra* through a member clinicI appreciate the assistance I was provided in this desperate time. I am a single mother of three and am very concerned about how I could provide for another child. I am a student graduating in six months, and this is a big weight off my shoulders. Thanks a lot. --submitted by Rose* through a member clinicLabels: patient stories, wednesday's words from women
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Wednesday's Words from Women
 Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we will be featuring real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.I was raped while serving in the Army in Iraq. My rapist is in jail. I am engaged and will be married in two months. Thanks to your organization, I won’t have to start my new life raising a criminal’s child. --submitted by Analise* through a member clinicThree months ago, I was laid off from my job of six years. Right now the income I have coming in the house is only enough to support myself and my children. I am not financially or emotionally prepared to handle another child. I believe that having an abortion is the best decision for me because I would never want to bring a child into the world that I couldn’t completely love and provide for. --submitted by Candice* through a member clinicLabels: patient stories, wednesday's words from women, women, women in the military
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Wednesday's Words from Women
 Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we will be featuring real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.
I started having severe abdominal pain. I had many ultrasounds done and there was nothing the doctors could see that was wrong. When I found out I was pregnant the pain started to get worse. That’s when I had an internal ultrasound and doctors saw a tumor. The reason I needed this abortion was for my health and so I could take care of the tumor. It affected my school and work, and I needed to make sure I stayed on track with my life considering I am already a single parent. I would not have been able to do all this on my own so I am extremely grateful for help from the NAF Hotline.
--submitted by Nell* through a member clinic
I am a young single woman on my own. I have my own apartment with bills to pay and without your help I wouldn’t be able to go through with the abortion. With the tough times today it’s hard for anyone to make ends meet. I am pro-choice because I believe if you get pregnant you should be able to determine whether you are ready to have a child. I don’t want to bring a child into the world without knowing if I’ll be in a stable place to raise a child.
--submitted by Karly* through a member clinic *Names have been changed to protect patient privacy Labels: patient stories, wednesday's words from women, women
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Wednesday's Words from Women
 Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we will be featuring real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.I am a mother already, and I have limited funds. Becoming pregnant again was really not an option because I am a full-time student. I would like to be prepared the second time around as a mother and am grateful for this option.
--submitted by Emily* through a member clinic
I am so sad and scared for women’s rights and those that serve us. When I was younger I made the choice to have an abortion. I was a drug addict and knew I could not care for a child. It was 1973, the first year a woman could make this choice. I was lucky that women and men had fought so hard to make this happen; I was able to choose my destiny.
I am the woman and mother I am today—fully recovered, a social worker, and good mother—because I was able to delay having a child. I want to speak out and say I am not ashamed, I have no regrets, I am forever thankful that I was able to choose. When I had my abortion, there was no harassment, no bulletproof glass, and no angry, mean people calling me a killer. Today when I take my clients to clinics we have to walk through hate and intimidation. It makes me so sad and scared. And yet if you ask me, I would die for this right. Dr. Tiller is a hero, a man that said, “Trust Women.” We have lost so much and every day we are losing more. Thank you for all you do.
--submitted by Erika* via our website *Names have been changed to protect patient privacy Labels: patient stories, wednesday's words from women, women
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Wednesday's Words from Women
 Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we will be featuring real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.My sweetheart and I decided that an abortion would be best in our situation because he is leaving for the military soon. I am pursuing my degree and would not be able to follow him. Plus, between the two of us we wouldn’t be able to provide the way we would want for our child. So we have decided to wait until later to have children. As far as being prochoice: it’s my body. --submitted by Liz* through a member clinic
NAF has helped me a lot. This pregnancy was just something that I was not ready for. I can’t explain the reason I feel I’m not ready. I just know that the clinic and Hotline have made things easier for me. --submitted by Julie* through a member clinic*Names have been changed to protect patient privacyLabels: patient stories, wednesday's words from women, women
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Wednesday's Words from Women
 Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we will be featuring real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.When I was in my freshman year of college, I got pregnant even though I was on the "pill." I was so scared because I had plans for myself. I needed to finish school and get a good job and establish my life before I brought another one into this world. I wanted to have kids one day but I wanted to be able to give them everything they wanted. I didn't want to have my children, the people I would come to care for and love more than anything in the world, suffer for a mistake I made. I decided to get an abortion, and I had to travel 50 miles to the nearest clinic. Afterward I felt very relieved and went on to finish my freshman year with a 4.0. Now, 3 years later I have a beautiful one-year-old daughter who has everything she'll ever need because I was ready. I'm extremely grateful that I had the choice to wait so that my daughter may have a better life. Thank You. -- submitted by Keisha* through a member clinicI just want to say thank you and God Bless you to those who donate to this cause. This decision was hard to make; I am a single mom of three kids who just graduated. I really need to take care of the children I have and could not if I were to go through with this pregnancy. Thank you for allowing me to pursue my dreams of taking care of the children I have. -- submitted by Katie* through a member clinic*Names have been changed to protect patient privacyLabels: patient stories, shared stories, wednesday's words from women, women
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Wednesday's Words from Women
 Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we will be featuring real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.It is not a the right time in my life to have a baby. I don’t have enough financial stability to take care of myself and the child that I already have. I just started school to make my life better for my child and future children. I thought long and hard about this alternativedecision, and. I think I’m making the right choice for me and my family.
--submitted by Lucinda* through a member clinic
I found out that I was pregnant and knew that I was not ready mentally or financially for such a huge responsibility. I am so thankful for NAF and the clinic. Thank you so much for allowing me to make an informed and important decision about my body and my future.
--submitted by Kendall* through a member clinic
*Names have been changed to protect patient privacy
Labels: patient stories, wednesday's words from women
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Wednesday's Words from Women
 Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we will be featuring real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.I am a single mother of two children who love me more than life. When I found out I was pregnant, I had mixed reactions, but I knew I had to do what was best for my family. This was the best solution after much thinking. Thank you very much for helping me and my family to be stronger.
--submitted by Claire* through a member clinic
It is hard enough trying to make ends meet as a college student. Seeing that I have one more year to obtain my first degree, the abortion seemed to be the best decision for me. I have seen many females dropping out to support a child, and that is not the thing for me. I really appreciate all the support I have been given by the clinic. Words cannot express my gratitude enough, but for what it is worth, thank you so much for helping my life to be better.
--submitted by Chauncey* through a member clinic
*Names have been changed to protect patient privacy Labels: patient stories, wednesday's words from women, women
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IN MEMORIUM
Dr. George R. Tiller
Ours is a profession filled with sadness. The bitter sweetness of life is our specialty, as we take one life to preserve the choice to create another. Thus are we steeped in the catechisms of sacrifice.
We gather here to remember one whose life was an offering, a penance and a redemption. Smitten in a very public spasm of violence, his loss is our shared and very private grief. For we alone and only can fully know the depth of his love, the fire of his mission, the covenant of his devotion and the endlessness of his forbearance.
The journeys of men and women like George Tiller are often lonely ones, but in his case it was not. Fortified by those who came before, strengthened by his family, cherished by his colleagues and heralded by a courageous few persons in the public eye—some of whom are here today—he is now carried to his place of peace by those who will carry on his work.
Blessed are those of us whose dear friends sustain us with faith, infuse us with courage and delight us with humor. Never more do we need them than on this day.
We bear collective witness to a life of service; we lay to rest a soul of courage.
May the Lord bless him, honor him and keep him close to his bosom, evermore.
Amen.
Steve Lichtenberg
Betsy Aubrey
June 6, 2009
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Wednesday's Words from Women
 Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we will be featuring real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.
I felt very lost when I found out that I was pregnant. I am already a mother of a beautiful two year old and times have been really hard lately because I lost my job. When I found out I was pregnant, I considered doing dangerous things to my body because I did not want to be pregnant. I felt like there was no hope. When I went to the clinic, they helped me and it was a great feeling. I did not have to worry or do anything dangerous. I feel so relieved and I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart. I can now be healthy and be here for my daughter.
--submitted by Noreen* through a member clinic
I did not want to bring a child into the world under the circumstances that I am facing. It was not planned–I was taking antibiotics while on birth control. I have seven more months before my completion of being an LPN so before I bring another human being in this world I want to be sure that I am able to take care and be there for that child as I should.
--submitted by Savita* through a member clinic
*Names have been changed to protect patient privacy
Labels: Contraception, patient stories, wednesday's words from women, women
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Article Features Women’s Stories from Crisis Pregnancy Center
An article published last week in Pasadena Weekly features accounts from women deceived by a local Crisis Pregnancy Center (CPC). “I thought I was at a medical clinic,” recalls Judy, a 43-year-old mother of one, who mistakenly went into Avenues [Pregnancy Clinic] because it’s adjacent to her general practitioner’s office. “I don’t like what I went through,” she says. “It was a horrible experience—just manipulative. Deceptive! That’s what I feel—deceived.” After hearing stories from women like Judy, reporter Tina Dupuy decided to go undercover and visit the same CPC and write about her experience. “I spent nearly two hours of my time to get an admittedly unreliable pregnancy test, [and] erroneous medical information,” Dupuy said. She was also forced to listen to a religious speech from one of the CPC workers and given inaccurate information about the effectiveness of contraception. Many CPCs use deceptive advertising practices to mislead women into thinking that they are legitimate medical clinics that provide a variety of reproductive health care services, including family planning and abortion care. In reality, most CPCs do not provide full options counseling and generally will not refer for abortion care or birth control. In June 2006, NAF released Crisis Pregnancy Centers: An Affront to Choice, a comprehensive report outlining the ways that CPCs harass and mislead women. >Share your story about an experience with a CPC.Labels: crisis pregnancy center (CPC), NAF, patient stories, women
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Wednesday's Words from Women
 Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we will be featuring real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.I am a college student that finds it hard just to pay rent each month. I have been with my boyfriend for four years and have been careful, with one slip up. We are both in school and are not financially stable or ready to be parents. Thank you for providing the opportunity for us to have this abortion. Without your help, we would have a very big struggle ahead. Both of us find it very important to finish school and set up a life first. So, thank you very much!
--submitted by Alice* through a member clinic
If it weren’t for the clinic, I probably wouldn’t be here at all. My life was going down the tubes, and then I found out I was pregnant. If I hadn’t had the choice to terminate this pregnancy, I would have made the choice to end my life. In no way was I ready to give a baby a fulfilling, happy life, and having a baby would have ruined mine. Thank you to the clinic and NAF for all of your help getting my life turned around!
--submitted by Leah* through a member clinic
*Names have been changed to protect patient privacy Labels: patient stories, wednesday's words from women, women
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I know all too well what it's like to feel you have but two options... abortion or suicide. I'm so glad you were able to find a solution that kept you here with us!
Unfortunately, my choice came in the last 1960's. I was a college freshman living at home in a religious household. Legal pregnancy termination options were not available where I lived. I suffered a horrific illegal abortion and am so thankful that women these days don't have to go through what I did.
Thank goodness for organizations like NAF. I will continue to fight for the right for women to choose... and safe, legal procedures.
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Stories of Real Women Featured in Glamour
 Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we will be featuring real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.This month, Glamour magazine published a six-page article about abortion, which profiles eight women who were willing to candidly share their abortion experiences. NAF members Dr. Deb Oyer, counselor Anne Baker, and Dr. Cassing Hammond were also featured in the piece. Allyson Kirk, a member of NAF’s Patient Partnership, was one of the women who shared her story with Glamour: “I was 23 when I discovered I was pregnant. My partner and I had been dating only a month, and I got pregnant due to failed birth control—I’d recently switched to the Patch, which didn’t work for me. I had just moved to Virginia from Florida and didn’t know where to go for an abortion, so I looked online and called a local NAF-recommended clinic. The day of my initial consultation, I drove to the address in a mall and entered an office that had a pregnancy-testing sign on its door. I filled out some forms, then a woman led me into another room to ask me more questions. Everything was fine until she asked what my religion was. I asked her why that was necessary, and she said she could not properly counsel me without knowing my “morality.” I was shocked—it was none of her business! So I asked to move on. She gave me a pregnancy test, and then as I waited for the results, she had me watch a video. Within minutes, I knew it was propaganda: It said not many people know the truth about abortion—that doctors who provide them graduate at the bottom of their class and that it is linked to breast cancer and depression. I was outraged. I went in trusting these people and felt betrayed and manipulated. When they started showing graphics of an actual procedure, using an illustration that was the size of a third-trimester fetus, I got up to leave. It was too upsetting. As I stormed past both the “counselor” and the receptionist, I said, ‘You people should be ashamed of yourselves.’ Once I got home, I called NAF to tell them they should take that clinic off their website—and that is when I first learned about these fake “crisis pregnancy centers” that sometimes use propaganda to discourage women from having an abortion. The NAF clinic I was supposed to go to was two doors down. When I went to see them the next day, I told them what happened, and they apologized and said it’s a common occurrence. It breaks my heart to think of someone going in there already scared. If I had been nervous or ill informed or did not have a support network, that experience would have been devastating.”
Allyson Kirk, 26 >Learn about NAF’s Patient Partnership.>Read the full Glamour article.Labels: patient stories, wednesday's words from women, women
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I work at an abortion clinic in Illinois. I was saddened to hear of the loss of Dr. Tiller. I did not know him, but the doctor I work for is a friend. Dr. Tiller will be missed, but never forgotten. I would like to thank the family for their unselfishness in giving of their husband and father, so every woman could have a right. As long as we continue to work for the rights of every woman we will keep his legacy alive.
My Privilege to serve women
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Real Women Share Their Abortion Stories
 Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we will be featuring real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.
Three years ago I had an abortion. I was living in England at the time, and when I had sexual intercourse with my boyfriend the condom broke. I found out I was pregnant two months later. I was still in school and working part time. My family is not well off and I had to work to earn my keep. I had no time to bring up a child and the best, most obvious option was to have an abortion. It was fine, and the operation went well. I am not scared at all, in fact, I am ok with my decision. --submitted by Vanessa* via our websiteI have always been pro-choice in that I strongly believe that if women and girls cannot control their own reproduction, we are in a very sad state. I absolutely thought I would never have an abortion-I thought I would never "need" to, that I "couldn't" do it. About a year ago-at age 44 my fourth pregnancy ended in an abortion. I could no more imagine continuing that pregnancy than I could imagine terminating the pregnancies that resulted in my three children. I am thankful every day for my children...I love them with all my heart, and spend most of my time with them. I had an abortion because my mind, heart, and soul told me that continuing this pregnancy would only result in physical and emotional pain for those I love most. I have learned many things, including how much judgment of others hurts individuals and our society. --submitted by Michelle* via our website *Names have been changed to protect patient privacyLabels: patient stories, wednesday's words from women, women
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Thank you! Your words are exactly how I feel.
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Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we will be featuring real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.
