I was 17 when I first went into the clinic to seek birth control. This was when I found out I was actually pregnant, the irony. At 17 I was not ready to be a mom of any sort and opted for abortion. I went alone my first appointment and was immediately surrounded by protestors. That itself was traumatic. I ended up changing my mind about going through with the abortion and kept my baby.

A few years later, my husband had become addicted. I was not in a good place mentally, physically and financially. I had found out I was pregnant and my husband had told me if I kept the baby he’d leave me. I went to the clinic, again surrounded by protesters. This time I knew I was going to have the abortion. I felt so guilty the entire time, crying non stop. I was by myself through the whole process. After my abortion, I did not stop crying. I did not stop feeling guilty. It took me a very long time to realize I made an important decision that ended up saving my life. I am now grateful and proud that I had my abortion.