National Abortion Federation Blog: Saporta Reporter

RNC Ends Insurance Coverage of Abortion for Employees

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House Assaults Women’s Access to Reproductive Health Care

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Wednesday's Words from Women

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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 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 was 27 and became pregnant as a result of a broken condom. I was relocating with no family support around me and had little money. The decision to have an abortion was not one I took lightly, but it wasn't the right time or situation to bring a child into the world.

Women do not make these decisions lightly; but it is our decision to make, and that is why I am pro-choice. We need to be informed, and have access to counseling and safe procedures.

--submitted by Suzanne* via our website


I have two kids at home and with another child, I wouldn’t be able to provide for them or give them the attention that they need and deserve. I am now going back to school and working part time, which I couldn’t do if I had to start preparing for a another child. I appreciate the chance to better my life. If you can’t take care of yourself, how can you provide for anyone else?

--submitted by Belinda* through a member clinic

*Names have been changed to protect patient privacy

Labels: shared stories, wednesday's words from women, women

I'm in the same situation. It's VERY comforting to know we're not alone. Me must first take ourselves if we are to adequately take care of others. Good luck with your life!

By  Anonymous, at 8:52 PM  

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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 26 years old, I have four children, and I’m in school. My partner just left me after we found out about the pregnancy. We already have one child together and he is not helping me at all. I’m being evicted and I have to get a second job in order to find a new home. If I were to continue with my pregnancy, my children and I would have nowhere to stay. Even though this is one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to make, I thank you for the support and assistance.

--submitted by Trista* through a member clinic


I am currently unemployed and have no health insurance. If your organization wasn’t there for me, I don’t know what I would have done. My pregnancy was definitely unplanned. My boyfriend and I both agreed that right now would not be the best time to bring a child into the world. The NAF clinic helped me understand my options, and I am grateful for their understanding and non-judgmental advice. Thank you for understanding my situation.

--submitted by Brooke* through a member clinic

*Names have been changed to protect patient privacy

Labels: 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.

I'm a 21-year-old single mother of two, and without this decision I would more than likely have had to drop out of college to take care of my children. I feel that women have rights and should not be judged for their decisions.

--submitted by Alicia* through a member clinic


I had a surgical abortion in April. When I discovered I was pregnant, I visited a Crisis Pregnancy Center (CPC). When I walked in, I was greeted warmly. They gave me a free ultrasound and seemed sweet and supportive. Then came the counseling session, during which I asked to be excused several times, and was told each time it was mandatory since they had given me an ultrasound for free. When I informed them of my decision to have an abortion, I was forced to watch a graphic video. I was suffering from morning sickness and I had to run out to vomit several times. They told me these were the consequences of sin. They warned me my fiance would never be able to look at me as anything other than the woman who killed his first child. I'll never forget the way I felt leaving the Crisis Pregnancy Center that day.

I later visited a reputable abortion provider. My state required my provider to warn me about the supposed physical and psychological effects of abortion. I felt no shame, guilt, or depression resulting from my abortion. However, the CPC I visited brought me untold shame, stress, and confusion. My state legislators should have saved their mandated warning for the CPC.

--submitted by Joanna* via our website

>Learn more about Crisis Pregnancy Centers.

*Names have been changed to protect patient privacy

Labels: crisis pregnancy center (CPC), 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 homeless with three kids already. I do not want to have another child without being able to care and provide for it.

--submitted by Alyssa* through a member clinic


When I found out I was five weeks pregnant, I had been sick with persistent pneumonia for months and my lungs were at risk of collapsing. I had half of the red blood cells I should have had and I had taken antibiotics known to cause birth defects. My mother was dying of bone cancer at the time and I couldn't have helped her and cared for an infant. I was working two jobs and enrolled full-time in college.

My fiance and I agreed together that abortion was the best option, and I had a medical abortion. The only unwanted effect I had was cramping, and I was able to rest at home during the process; it was nothing like the horror stories some people would like you to believe.

It has been over five years since the procedure and I have had no complications, physically or phsychologically, as a result of the abortion. I love my life and do not regret my decision.

Of all the myths about abortion, the ones that anger me the most are about the women who have them. We are portrayed as promiscuous, unintelligent, selfish, weak or child-hating. Those who oppose abortion would like people to believe that women either can't make a good choice or don't even deserve one. Nothing could be further from the truth.

--submitted by Sophia* via our website

*Names have been changed to protect patient privacy

Labels: wednesday's words from women, women

As a mother of 3 beautiful children, who adores and loves children, I myself have had to make this decision on more than one occassion and it was also the choice of my partner's at the time, even as a Catholic. As I look back on what has happened, I am grateful I had the opportunity to make the choice I did. I was young and wanting a future in college and in the professional world in which I exist in today. My children have brought me more joy than anything else in this world. Women are smart and should be allowed to make personal choices for themselves and their furtures. We should never be controlled or held back from succeeding as individuals in this world. I will continue by fight against these irrational uncaring hardball militias who need to realize what DOMESTIC VIOLENCE is and the devistation it causes.

By  Tammra, at 2:31 PM  

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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 clinic


Three 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 clinic

Labels: patient stories, wednesday's words from women, women, women in the military

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Guest Column by NAF Board Member

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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.

At 18, a student at the University of Chicago, I became pregnant. In that year, 1959, one had no option other than to bear the child or, alarmingly, have an illegal abortion. Having no means of support or family to sustain me, I was forced to choose the latter. I wish I could convey the chilling fear I felt. Having a back-alley abortion was a horrific experience, which I would not wish upon anybody.

Luckily, I was not permanently injured physically and was able to have two children when the circumstances were right.

I don't think today's young women have the foggiest idea of how vital it is that they have legal recourse to abortion if they wish. Perhaps my story will help enlighten them.

I've always felt the answer to the so-called Right to Lifers is very simple: if they make abortion illegal again, the very same number of women will continue having them, only many, many more deaths and permanent injury will result. It will change nothing to illegalize the procedure except to endanger thousands of lives.

--submitted by Janice* via our website


I am a single college student who is trying to break the cycle of having children young in my family. I heard about your Hotline from my very helpful counselor. You helped me out a great deal. So thank you very much for helping me access the abortion care I needed.

--submitted by Jocelyn* through a member clinic

--*Names have been changed to protect patient privacy

Labels: wednesday's words from women, women

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Ohio Bill Would Require Consent From Men Before Abortion

When I hear that the US justice system is taking steps to make abortion less accessible I become outraged. I don't see how religious or personal beliefs against the procedure are justified in taking the right away. I do not advocate that abortion should become another form of birth control. But, when we are discussing such extreme cases as this article does, a woman should have the right to have a safe, legal abortion if she chooses. Personal beliefs are meant to govern personal actions, not monitor the behavior of everyone in a nation.

-Politics.com intern

By  Anonymous, at 3:02 PM  

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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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Ryan-DeLauro Bill Addresses Important Women’s Health Care Issues

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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.

At this time in my life I’m 25 with two young children under the age of two. I make a little above minimum wage and I am trying to make a decent life for my children. Money is tight and a third child would be too much for me as I am already a struggling single mother. NAF really saved me mentally and financially. Without your help I probably would not have been able to obtain this abortion. I am pro-choice because I feel as though there are times in a woman’s life when she is just not ready physically, mentally, or financially to have a child.

--submitted by Kennedy* through a member clinic


My family and I were going through a very difficult situation. We recently found out my daughter’s pregnancy had several severe and painful birth defects. We were referred to a clinic in Nebraska because the procedure could not be done in South Dakota. We felt this was just another blow. We would have to travel to an unfamiliar place with a doctor and nurses we did not know. Not to mention the financial aspect of it. It turned out to be a blessing in disguise. When we met the clinic staff everything changed for us. I have never met more caring and compassionate people in my life. The doctor and his whole staff showed us so much compassion and empathy. He was able to make my daughter feel better and give her a sense of peace. They are truly angels that work among us. Thank you.

--submitted by Anita* through a member clinic

*Names have been changed to protect patient privacy

Labels: 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.

As a freshman in college, the last place I expected to find myself was in need of an abortion. However, the staff at the NAF clinic was extremely kind and they did an amazing job in helping me through my situation. I strongly stand by my decision and I greatly support clinics like the one that helped me. It should be up to every woman, not the pressures of society and religious groups, what she does with her body/pregnancy. Thus, it is critical that great facilities like your members exist nationwide.

--submitted by Andrea* through a member clinic


I am a 22-year-old mother of twin boys. I just started a new job and I can’t afford another child. I just want to say thank you for helping someone in need. I really didn’t want to bring another child here without having a better job and finishing school.

--submitted by Nancy* through a member clinic

*Names have been changed to protect patient privacy

Labels: 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.

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 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.

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 clinic


I 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 privacy

Labels: 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.

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

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

By  Steve Lichtenberg/Betsy Aubrey, at 2:52 PM  

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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 found out I was pregnant, instead of feeling that wonderful feeling you’re supposed to get, I was devastated. I knew that I was not emotionally or financially capable of having a child.

I know how much controversy surrounds what I am doing but I also know how many organizations and women have fought to give me this right. I take solace in the fact that I can obtain an abortion in a legal, professional manner. All in all, I cannot even describe how much I appreciate the ones who gave me the right to choose. Maybe one day I will have a child, but it needs to be when I am ready, and able to give the child a great life. Until then, I am truly thankful that I had the right not to carry this pregnancy to term at this unstable time in my life. Thank you.

--submitted by Amber* through a member clinic

I am 20 years old with a one-year-old daughter. I’m a single parent and I live alone with my child. I attend college and work full-time. It just isn’t the right time for me to have another child. Financially with this economy I can’t afford it, and emotionally it’s too much stress trying to struggle with it. I could possibly see myself having another child when the time is right: when school is done, the recession is history, and the demand for jobs is controlled.

--submitted by Lisa* through a member clinic

*Names have been changed to protect patient privacy

Labels: access, wednesday's words from women, women

If there were no doctors willing to give abortions, there would be more child abuse, illegitimacy, unnecessary suffering, and poverty. It is so hypocritical that pro-LIFE people would murder someone. Notice you do not hear about pro-choice citizens murdering pro-life people. That is because we are true Christians and believe that others have feelings and rights, even if they don't agree with us. Please keep him and his family in your prayers.

By  Anonymous, at 7:56 PM  

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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.

Recently I was in an abusive relationship where I feared for my life. After an almost fatal accident I learned I was pregnant. I knew I couldn’t have a baby by somebody who was capable of killing me so I decided to end the pregnancy. When I made the call to schedule an appointment they were more than helpful. I am very grateful and this is something that in a way saved my life.

--submitted by Sharice* through a member clinic


I am currently a single parent and a full time nursing student. Having a baby would impact my life for the worse right now, not the better. I graduate from school in eight months and I’m not ready to have another child right now.

--submitted by Tracey* through a member clinic

*Names have been changed to protect patient privacy

Labels: wednesday's words from women, women

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The President’s Budget Misses an Opportunity to Improve Women’s Access to Reproductive Health Care

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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 two year old and no job at the moment due to recently being laid off. As much as I love children, the uncertainty of finances and how I’m even going to give my two year old everything he needs right now is just too scary. Thank you so much for your assistance in helping me obtain care. I could not have done it without you.

-- submitted by Katherine* though a member clinic

Having an abortion at a NAF member clinic has granted me a second chance. It has also given me back my choice; I’ve been allowed to make my own decision. I am pro-choice, pro-family, and pro-faith, and I trust this clinic.

--submitted by Marie* through a member clinic

*Names have been changed to protect patient privacy

Labels: 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.

Last December I made the choice to have an abortion. I feel no guilt for this, because I know what it's like to grow up with a parent who was unprepared for the job of parenthood, and was not ready to bring a life into the world. I knew that I was not prepared and nine months would not make me so. It's been a few months now, and still no sign of "Post-Abortion Syndrome" as a few lovely anti-choice websites like to call it. It was the best choice for me at this time.

--submitted by Elaine* though a member clinic


The reasons are many that each woman decides to end a pregnancy; for myself the list is quite long. I have lupus and am a single 43-year-old woman with three children at home and an adult child. My hands are full with the challenges of what I am responsible for right now and would be made increasingly worse with another child, no partner, and no support to raise a child. It's a hard and difficult choice to make, and for me the choice took a long time to make as it's not easy to do.

I will say that without the clinic, I am not sure what I would have done. The medical society out there, where I live, isn't very helpful and wasn't giving me the answers I needed. I needed to take care of myself and to be my own advocate. I would encourage every woman to be their own advocate and to do what is best for themselves, whether that is having a baby or terminating the pregnancy, it's our life that we have to live and we are responsible, not the doctors, nurses, neighbors, friends, etc.

--submitted by Patricia* through a member clinic

*Names have been changed to protect patient privacy

Labels: 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.

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

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Wednesdays 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 ability to choose abortion has made a difference in my life by allowing me to continue following my dreams. I am an Airman in the United States Air Force waiting to leave for Basic Military Training in May. Without this opportunity at the clinic I would not be able to begin my military career.

--submitted by Cynthia* through a member clinic

>Learn about the other challenges women in the military may face when attempting to access abortion care.


I’m 24 years old and a mother of an 8 year old. I grew up alone without my parents around most of my life, but I’ve gotten strong. I am raising my daughter on my own. Unfortunately, I’m a single mother and am just getting by raising her, taking care of responsibilities, paying tuitions, and keeping clothes on us and food on the table. I love my daughter dearly, and I am a good mother as well as a good human being and the decision I’ve made today is totally the best for me. Having another child will add to the stress and I do not need that. This pregnancy was an accident, it wasn’t planned, and I need to think about my child and myself before I bring another child into the world. This was the best decision for me and I’m still the best mother I can be.

--submitted by Sharon* through a member clinic

*Names have been changed to protect patient privacy

Labels: 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 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

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.

By  Anonymous, at 6:16 AM  

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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 currently enrolled in Nursing School. I’ve come a long way and when I found out that I was pregnant, I was very scared but knew what I had to do in order to provide for myself and my family in the future. I’m grateful that I have this option and I’d like to thank the clinic for their utmost respect and professionalism.

--submitted by Chloe* through a member clinic


Although I would love to be a mother someday, I believe that right now is not the right time for me to have a baby. There are so many things that I would like to accomplish before I have a child. I would also like to be financially stable and have my own place before I can even think of bringing someone else into this world. This is by far the hardest and most difficult decision that I’ve ever had to make, but I know I’ve made the right one. Thank you for helping to make it possible.

--submitted by Laura* through a member clinic

*Names have been changed to protect patient privacy

Labels: wednesday's words from women, women

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posted by Vicki @ 4:31 PM  Share
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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 recently lost my job, so as you can imagine, an unexpected pregnancy was not the most joyful news. It was actually scary knowing that I could barely afford to take care of myself, let alone another human being. The next time something unexpected comes along like this I want to be prepared, independent, and financially stable.

--submitted by Brie* through a member clinic

>Learn more about the economics of abortion and the costs of denying abortion funding


At the present time I am taking care of my mother who has had four strokes and needs 24-hour care. I realize at this time a new baby plus my two-year-old, as well as my ill mom, would be very strenuous on me. I just want to focus on the three of us and not take on too much that I know I can’t handle. I appreciate the support and may God bless.

--submitted by Meredith* through a member clinic

*Names have been changed to protect patient privacy

Labels: 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 became pregnant while on birth control and that is what brought me to this decision. I am a full-time nursing student and want to fulfill my career goals. I am grateful for the freedom to make my own choices.

--submitted by Anna* through a member clinic


When I found out I was pregnanct a sick feeling went through my stomach. The world just stopped, and I felt so lost. I didn’t know what to do. The past couple of years have been really rough, and this didn’t help. I knew what my decision was going to be, but it was a hard decision to make. I love kids, and I can’t wait until I have my own. However, I would like to be married and in a stable environment, something that I do not have now. I found out how much this procedure was going to cost, and I felt like it was a lost cause. I barely had a penny to my name, and I just started a new job, so I wouldn’t get the money for a long time. In order to get the money, my ex-boyfriend had to ask his mom’s boyfriend’s mother, and that wasn’t enough. It was my turn to get the money, and fortunately I have friends that supported my decision, and agreed to help me. I am so happy that there are understanding people out there that understand and are supportive.

--submitted by Melanie* through a member clinic

Restrictions on federal funding for abortion care have severely restricted access to care for women who depend on the government for their health care.

>Learn more about these polices, which create an unjust obstacle to necessary health care and disproportionately impact low-income women and women of color.

*Names have been changed to protect patient privacy

Labels: Contraception, 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 17 years old, married to an amazing guy, and I chose to have an abortion. I chose to have an abortion because, while children are wonderful, I hope to be able to give my children more than I could dream of now. I plan to go to college, get a degree and hopefully open my own business. I want to be able to go to a career day at my child’s school, be proud of what I’ve done with my life, and be able to go to sleep at night not worried about how I’m going to pay a hospital bill from when I was 17. Children deserve the best things in life. They truly are our future. My baby would deserve too many things that I can’t provide right now, including all the love in the world. Someday I will be a mom, and I believe I will be an amazing parent when the time is right.

--submitted by Marissa* through a member clinic

I am already a struggling single mother of three children: four, seven, and soon to be one year old. This pregnancy was the result of a rape. It was not my intention to ever put myself in a position like this. I thought long and hard about what I was going to do about this pregnancy. I decided to have an abortion because I couldn’t see myself keeping this baby, but I also could not see myself giving the baby away and constantly wondering if I did the right thing and if it was being treated well.

--submitted by Toni* through a member clinic

>Learn more about women who have abortions.

*Names have been changed to protect patient privacy

Labels: shared stories, wednesday's words from women, women

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posted by Vicki @ 3:35 PM  Share
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Report Examines Benefits of Publicly Funded Family Planning Services

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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

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

By  Anonymous, at 8:49 PM  

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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 website


I 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 privacy

Labels: patient stories, wednesday's words from women, women

Thank you! Your words are exactly how I feel.

By  Anonymous, at 1:15 AM  

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posted by Vicki @ 12:43 PM  Share
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