I had an abortion at age 17, and again at age 21. I went to Bill Baird Clinic
for pregnancy tests. I was never counseled in regard to other options. Abortion
was the only choice discussed.
Both were vacuum aspiration - first trimester. I was awake for both of them.
The relationships I had broke off shortly after the abortions. They were both
emotionally abusive. My relationship with my family, friends and others
deteriorated after the abortions.
I sought various means of counseling. I went to a social worker at one time
and suffered from a nervous breakdown. I was hospitalized three times for major
depression. I know now that I was suffering from severe post abortion stress.
[It changed me] dramatically - only by the forgiveness, love and grace of
Jesus can I get through each day knowing that two innocent children were allowed
to die - I am now involved with Pro-Life work through a Crisis Pregnancy Center.
I am very grateful to be able to be a part of this case study. It is so
needed. The medical community and all segments of our society must know the
devastation that abortion brings to women (and men).
I have been fortunate to have received a tremendous amount of healing from
God. It has been only through Him and my trust in Him that I have been able to
make peace with my past.
I was involved with Women Exploited by Abortion and Post Abortion Counseling
through the Christian Action Council. Both helped a great deal. Just being able
to share my experience with other women was tremendous. When I was hospitalized
for depression and a suicide attempt the doctors and hospital staff never
acknowledged the abortions and the effect they had on me. When I was first
hospitalized that was all that I talked about. I was in such pain and grief, yet
they minimized it and were totally ill prepared to deal with a woman suffering
from post-abortion stress. At the time I didn't know that there was such a
syndrome.
God is good. I am happily married and have a beautiful 13 month old girl. God
has used my past sins for good and now for His Glory and Honor.
I am very involved with Pro Life work and serve on the Board of Directors of
a Crisis Pregnancy Center. Prior to having my daughter I was a counselor for
post abortion counseling. I'm grateful for all the Pro Life work that is being
done throughout the country.
God bless you for conducting this study. I pray that it will accomplish a
great deal and that people will become more aware of post-abortion stress.
