*Ariel is a mild-mannered mama who is pregnant and feeling the pressures of the world. She’s had a lifetime of people hurting and disappointing her. Her story has many moving parts that twist and turn at any given time. Just when she feels she can choose life for her unborn baby, those moving parts throw a twist and she starts to rethink her decision. That’s where we met back up.
Ariel had been to LaVie 6 weeks earlier for an ultrasound and left feeling as if she was ready to choose life for her baby. On this day, however, Ariel called in a panic. Life had thrown her a couple of those twists which left her feeling defeated and alone, bringing her to rethink choosing life for her baby. Praise God that LaVie staff had already been working with Ariel and had built a great rapport with her, so much so, that LaVie was the first place she called for encouragement when she needed it most. Ariel tearfully discussed her concerns with our nurse. The nurse quickly recognized that Ariel could benefit from another ultrasound at LaVie and was able to get her right in for one. Together, they mapped out a plan for various resources that could offer Ariel some support and mentorship to help her, not only while she was pregnant, but support and mentorship for after her baby was born as well.
At the end of a very emotional appointment, Ariel expressed her thankfulness, stating that she felt better and really thought she just needed to see her baby. Seeing her active, now late first trimester baby on the ultrasound screen really confirmed in Ariel’s mind that no matter what, she can do this. She can choose life for her baby. Not only can she, but she wants to and was so excited to get a glimpse of her little one that day. From that point on, Ariel had no other thoughts than to choose life for her sweet baby.
LaVie was able to follow her along through her pregnancy, offering support with parenting videos which not only empowered her with great education but also helped her earn a large assortment of free baby items. LaVie staff called periodically to check on her. At one point, we invited her to come in, mid-pregnancy, to visit with her about her goals. She was always accepting of prayer when offered. Ariel is now a new mama to her sweet, happy baby and their future is bright, simply because every heartbeat matters!
*names and identifiable information changed to protect patient privacy
