When “Brandy” discovered she was pregnant, she hesitated to tell her boyfriend “Ryan” the news. Although they’d been in a committed relationship for several years, the last few months had been the most trying.
Brandy had given birth to their first child, “James,” just six months earlier, but both Brandy and Ryan had lost their jobs since then. The demands of a new baby combined with their difficult financial situation had placed an enormous strain on the young couple’s tenuous relationship. And since they were receiving very little support from their family and friends, Brandy and Ryan believed abortion was their only option.
Taking to the Internet, Brandy began searching for a local abortion clinic. But Online for Life connected with her first and guided her to make an appointment at a life-affirming pregnancy center in her neighborhood — a place where she could be fully educated about her pregnancy and all of their options going forward.
On the day of the appointment, Brandy and Ryan entered the pregnancy center and sat in the private office of one of the nurse practitioners on staff, “Cathy.” Thinking back on that day, Cathy described the couple as highly agitated and terribly discouraged as they spoke about their recent struggles with finances and job security.
With compassion and understanding, Cathy listened as Brandy explained their reasons for seeking an abortion. Then Ryan asked Cathy to describe what the procedure entailed if they chose to abort. Brandy was horrified as Cathy used terms like suction and dismember and dispose in her description. Then, despite holding tightly to her boyfriend’s hand, Brandy’s whole body began trembling as Cathy discussed the potential health risks following an abortion, and the long-term emotional and physical effects that could occur.
Brandy and Ryan’s thoughts turned to their little boy at home. Just six months old, James had already brought so much joy to their lives, and he’d also brought the young couple closer than ever. Looking at the sonogram picture in her hand, Brandy realized the baby in her womb was no different than her beloved six-month-old son…just smaller and more helpless. At that moment, Brandy and Ryan decided life was the only option for their unborn child.
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Cathy carefully walked Brandy and Ryan through a parenting plan to help them prepare for having two young children at home. Ryan was also able to find a good-paying job so Brandy could stay home full time with their energetic baby boys. The center also helped the couple search for more affordable housing so the young family could get back on more sound financial footing.
Five months later, Ryan and Brandy returned to the pregnancy center to show off their newborn son “Jediah.” His bright eyes and big smile lit up the office and reminded everyone at the center that all life is precious and deserves to be protected.
Cathy fondly recalled her time with Brandy and Ryan. “We are so blessed to be a part of this sweet family’s story,” she said with tears in her eyes.
To find out more about Online for Life and their efforts to reach abortion-determined women and men, visit onlineforlife.org.
