I’ve not had much to say, because I’ve had too much to say. That tends to happen when you are delirious from too much happenings on not enough sleep. What’s a girl to do? Anyway, here’s some of what I have to say. Bare with me for some vagueness.
This week I’ve been helping a friend of sorts make a major life decision. You see, she is a teenager in high school and pregnant…unexpectedly. Her life situation is difficult at the moment. I can’t go into detail without blowing her cover. Just trust me on this one. She’s gotten a great deal of wrong information regarding her current state, and has no access to the internet to get the correct information.
So, this week I felt like a devoted college student all over again. I promised to help gather information regarding all of her options. I gathered pictures and information for her gestational age, information about her body, and what’s happening with the baby. I included pictures of the developing baby. My ultrasound photos and videos of my 4d ultrasound done extremely close to her gestational age were included. I also included resources to help her raise her baby, counseling, and non profit organizations that help with maternity clothes and baby items.
Then, came what nearly brought me to my knees. Abortion information. It was with a heavy heart and brave face that I picked up the phone to call her local P.lanned Par.enthood to ask about abortions and how to have one done. My jaw dropped that it could be done without parental permission or knowledge and for free. The steps were very easy…too easy. What crushed me was that they didn’t provide counseling for women who use their services. No matter the young woman’s choice, she will need somebody to talk to. I’m at a loss for words there.
I included pictures of the aborted fetus, and seriously fought back the urge to vomit. I’m not kidding. I was certain to provide the exact steps that are performed during the procedure. I was thorough in my research. If she is to choose this path, she must know. I did find her free counseling for those who undergo the procedure.
I did include some information about domestic adoption. I just didn’t include a whole lot, because I know the father of the child’s family would walk through hell to raise the child before seeing it aborted or placed with another family. After all, it is their grandchild.
All in all, this was a very difficult week for me. I look at my miracles, children so hardly fought for, and wait to know the fate of one made on accident. She truly is a good kid. I just hope she comes to peace with whatever decision is right for her.
Prior to infertility I believed that a woman should have the right to choose during her first trimester, but not afterwards unless her life is in danger or the child is suffering. After Braden came into our lives, I became so appreciative of those who chose to continue their pregnancy and find a loving home for their child. Those women are strong. After going a few rounds with IVF and getting to not only be pregnant but to bring home our daughter, I’m in awe of how quickly an unborn child becomes “real.” My time frame has shortened to prior to a heartbeat, unless the previous conditions are met or in the event of severe deformities of the child.
That’s just where I’m at. Infertility and parenting has changed me. I just never realized it had permeated so many different aspects of my life. I was proud of my ability to remain ubiased in getting and distributing the information to her, but I’m secretly hoping for the miracle of life to prevail here. *sigh* If only life were easy. I know her decision won’t be made lightly, but at least it will be made informed. I’m glad I got to help.
Just promise me not to bash the young girl. We have not walked in her shoes, and those shoes aren’t so comfy right now.
