TRIGGER WARNING: This story discusses sexual assault and rape.

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When I was 18 years old, I was raped. I am not even sure how to write about this. When a woman is violated it steals something from her soul. I was shattered, confused, humiliated, and lost. I felt dirty and was unsure where to go.

This happened in the late 1970s. If I pressed charges, I would have been asked the questions “What were you wearing?,” “How did you behave?,” “Did you know him?” The answer to that question is yes.

Then my own questions: “Am I pregnant?,” “Am I hurt?,” and “What now?” I was blessed to walk through the doors of Planned Parenthood. They were there with support and guidance. They provided care I could afford. They allowed me to trust them. They gave me hope.

At one of the most vulnerable times of my life, Planned Parenthood was there. Planned Parenthood offered me education on what I had gone through. They helped me to feel clean again. I know that may sound like a different way to describe it. I am deeply grateful for them. It frightens me to think of women today not having the option of reproductive health care and all that means. I am telling some of my story in case it helps in some way. It seems like when you discuss reproductive care for women, people go right to abortion. Everyone is allowed their opinion on this and should have the right to make the decision that is best for them.

If we do not pay attention to the need for reproductive care for women and help educate women on birth control, what happens then? Who helps support these women and babies after the child is born? How can you empower women and take this option away?