For information on the film "A Voice for Life," or to watch the trailer, visit www.avoiceforlife.com. The documentary also is available for purchase at that site.
COLUMBUS -- This week, two area men will debut their documentary about a woman they say grew up despite her mother's attempt at having an abortion.
Gunther Meisse II, of Bellville, and Steve Feazel, of Mount Vernon, will debut their documentary about Melissa Ohden on Thursday at the Heartbeat International Convention in Columbus.
The documentary, "A Voice for Life," tells the story of one woman's experience and her journey across the country to speak out against abortion.
Ohden says that in 1977, her mother underwent a saline infusion abortion, a method common at that time in ending late-term pregnancies. Ohden survived the procedure, the filmmakers say, although she weighed less than three pounds. A nurse noticed she was alive and began caring for her.
According to the film, her adoptive parents later were told she would not likely live long, and that if she did, she would suffer physical or mental defects.
Today, Ohden is a healthy, thriving woman who travels the country speaking to audiences and testifying on abortion bills before legislatures. Her message of life, hope and love is directed at women facing unwanted pregnancies or who regret having an abortion.
"When I heard her story, I knew immediately that it would make a terrific documentary and have a profound effect on those who would see it," said Feazel, producer of "A Voice for Life." "Melissa is living proof that abortion is not the answer to an unwanted pregnancy."
Feazel contacted Meisse, a local video producer, about his idea.
"I could not get this project out of my mind," Meisse said. "It was as if God stuck it there as a direction sign for my life."
Meisse directed the film.
"Our goal for this documentary is to not only save lives, but also to change lives."
Also appearing in the film are Dr. John C. Willke, Dr. Theresa Burke, Alveda King and the Rev. Frank Pavone from Priests for Life.