“I definitely did not grow up thinking that I would have an abortion. In fact, I didn’t even really know what abortion was. It wasn’t talked about and certainly wasn’t something that was on my radar or thought would be part of my future and my story.
When I found out I was pregnant, I was in shock and afraid. Afraid of what the future looked like, afraid of what my ability would be to raise a child. I was definitely afraid of raising a baby on my own or with a dad that wouldn’t have been a great dad. Just the fear of being alone without the support overwhelmed me. I didn’t know where to go.
I didn’t have anyone to talk to, and I was alone. When I made the phone call to the only number I saw in the phone book that might be able to help, they were very quick to explain to me that abortion was a quick fix and that I would be able to move on with my life with no repercussions. They assured me that they do it all the time and not to worry about anything. I was being convinced to think of it as a problem to solve, not a baby or a life. I was assured that it just wasn’t a big deal. It seemed like the answer to what I was wrestling with and the turmoil I was experiencing.
…that led to me having the abortion within 24 hours.
I would have given anything if somebody would’ve done for me what LaVie does for young women— if someone would’ve been bold enough to say, “don’t do it”, and “I’m here and I love you”, and “we’ll get the support that we need together” and “you’re not alone”… then maybe it would have been different.”
We need to sever the silence and find every woman struggling with the same turmoil that Tanya experienced. We need to embrace her with grace, educate her, and empower her with support. We need to give her hope for her future.
Watch Tanya’s Video to hear her whole gut-wrenching story.
