When I was 18, I had a pregnancy scare. I was a senior in high school and in no way ready to have a child. I was too scared to go to the store and buy a pregnancy test. I lived in a small town and was worried someone would see me.
Luckily, there was a Planned Parenthood 25 minutes away in a nearby town. My best friend went with me. The staff was kind. They did a regular exam including a pregnancy test. I was not pregnant. I was so relieved and grateful.
I’m older now, and having kids is not part of my plan. Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, I was able to get an IUD for free, but I’m worried that when it comes time to replace it that will no longer be the case. I’m lucky to be in a position to pay for one if need be, but I know that’s not the case for all women. I’ve never forgotten my experience with Planned Parenthood. Now I’m a donor and advocate for them and for reproductive justice.