I was a statistic – a single, pregnant, woman
When I found out that my boyfriend cheated on me, I knew I had to get away. I loaded up my card and headed out for a road trip. I didn’t know where I was going or when I was coming back… if ever.
Once I began to run out of money, it was time to go home and face reality. When I got settled back at home, I realized I hadn’t had my period in over a month. I bought a pregnancy test, and the result was positive.
I didn’t have plans to be a mom, I was scared and I was by myself. When I told the father I was pregnant, he told me to have an abortion. In my entire life, I never expected anyone to say those words to me. That was the last day I ever saw or even spoke to him.
I was now a statistic. I was single, pregnant woman who hadn’t finished college and was going to raise this baby on my own. Definitely not the picture I had painted for myself or my future. I was hurt, embarrassed and the tears seemed to come before I could stop them.
My best friend from high school had gone to the Pregnancy Resource Center and I remember her telling me they were friendly and that everything was free. I looked them up and scheduled an appointment that same day. I was still crying when I went in and they somehow sensed my pain. The woman at the front desk immediately took me into a room. It wasn’t an exam room, but it felt more like a living room or a cozy room in a house. I felt safe. She handed me a tissue and a cold cup of water and when I was able to stop crying, we began to talk.
After silently struggling with guilt, I wondered if choosing to keep my baby was the right decision. Today, I know I made the right decision. My baby girl is due in a few weeks and I can’t wait to meet her.
Because I connected with the Pregnancy Resource Center, I have clothes, diapers, supplies, a car seat and a bed for my baby. They helped me understand all my weird pregnancy feelings and taught me how to be a good parent. I don’t want to think about what could have happened if I didn’t call them first.
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We realize facing an unplanned pregnancy is hard. The truth is, we talk to women every day who are in this exact situation. Nothing you say will surprise us. We are here to support you in whatever way we are able. Don’t wait. Make an appointment for a free pregnancy test and we can help you make a plan.
