Few things are more powerful than sharing your story. For survivors, our stories are more than just stories of pain; they are examples of resilience, illustrating that a path toward healing and wholeness exists even within hardships.
Starting Here
I will never forget the chill in the air that November night when I discovered I was pregnant. The trauma of sexual assault had left me completely broken, questioning everything I knew about myself. How could I have been so irresponsible and careless? The shame from the assault silenced me. Blaming myself, I vowed never to tell a soul. I moved on. Five weeks later, there I was, staring at two lines on a home pregnancy test.
This wasn't the first time I had found myself staring at those familiar double lines. Earlier that year, I had become pregnant and chose to have an at-home abortion alone. My college roommates had gone home to see their families for the weekend, and I stayed behind. I felt like I would die on that bathroom floor. At, and in moments, I prayed I would. I told myself it was the right thing to do, and everyone would be better for it. After the abortion, I started drinking and attending parties almost every night.
Choosing a New Path
The next morning, I called the abortion clinic near me and booked their first available appointment. The following week, I found myself in a waiting room full of other women who were also there to be liberated that day. As I sat there, something in me shifted. I got up and walked outside to get some air. Standing there, I reached into my purse, grabbed my phone, and called my parents. I confessed to them where I was and everything that had been going on. My dad told me to come home and assured me we would figure it out together. When I pulled into their driveway late that afternoon, my parents were outside waiting for me.
Over the next few weeks, they help me move back home and start to rebuild my life. My mom made an appointment for me to have an ultrasound through our local pregnancy clinic. Over time, the clinic staff became friends with me and my family. Together, we all welcomed my daughter into the world early the following summer.
My daughter brings so much joy to the world. She is so loved, and we simply could not imagine a life without her in it. My parents helped me finish school and get back on my feet. They have never once condemned or berated me for the life I had been living. May we all strive to follow their example of living out grace and love to those around us, each and every day.
We Are Here for You
Moving forward after sexual assault requires courage, resilience, and support. You are not alone.
If you or someone you know believe they may be pregnant following sexual assault, we are here for you. Our team is here to guide and provide the resources you need as you move toward the healing and wholeness you deserve. Make an appointment with our compassionate staff today.