Rachael

Freshly 21 and out on my own for the first time in the city I would call my home for the next four years, I found myself at a standstill. In love with an older man and in a confusing state as to whether or not to continue with college, I became pregnant.

“After the procedure I left with a sense of ease. I left knowing that my decision was right for me.”

Not sure what to do, I weighed my options quietly and on my own. It was 2011, and abortion seemed less like a stigma than before. I braved the waiting room of my local Planned Parenthood alone. Outside stood older men and women with boards saying “Abortion is a sin!” But I paid no mind.

After the procedure I left with a sense of ease. I left knowing that my decision was right for me. I wanted a child that would have a happy, healthy life, and at that time in my own life I knew it wouldn’t be fair to bring him or her into the world. The father was unaware of my choice up until the spring of 2013, when I told him. Upset with my secret, he never spoke to me again.

My decision about whether or not to bring a new life into the world is something I will never forget. I am fortunate enough to have a very strong community of other women I can share this story with. These women have never shunned me for my decision. Reproductive rights should never be taken from a woman. We are in control of ourselves and our bodies—our government is not.