As a graduate student I went to Planned Parenthood for a pregnancy test. Yes, I was pregnant and believed that an abortion would be my best option. Unmarried, a year left before starting my dissertation, living on financial aid—how could I become a mom? I spoke with a Planned Parenthood counselor to make an appointment for my abortion. She listened to my reasons and then brought up the subject of me becoming a parent. Did I want to? If not now, when? She offered me counseling resources, medical referrals, and a return appointment in a few days. I chose to become a mom.

I give thanks that I was given the opportunity to choose

That decision changed my life. With the counseling at Planned Parenthood, Aid to Families with Dependent Children (AFDC), Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), support of family and friends, the university Women’s Center, and County Public Health, I delivered a healthy girl who has given me great joys and challenges. I give thanks that I was given the opportunity to choose, especially through the last 30-some years of the ups and downs of parenting.