tears of sorrow, tears of joy

Carly* called Informed Choices asking for an appointment for an abortion. Her voice was young and shaky. Our receptionist gently told her that we do not perform or refer for abortion, but that we would love to offer her a pregnancy test to confirm her pregnancy and an ultrasound to verify viability and gestational age. She also told her all our services are free. Carly hesitated for a few seconds, then made an appointment for the following day.

The next day happened to be a Thursday, the one day of the week when there is no nurse scheduled at Informed Choices. The admin team asked if I could come in on my day off, and I immediately said yes because that's what we're here for – to help a young woman who is pregnant and afraid and thinks abortion is her only option.

Carly arrived with her boyfriend Matt*. They were obviously nervous as they checked in. One of the things I love best about Informed Choices is the feeling of calm that is felt even from the entrance. Also the lovingkindness of our admin staff who greet every client with the love of Jesus.

Carly left her urine sample in the restroom and was led down the hall to our consultation room. She was given a clipboard with a Personal Decision form where she was able to evaluate, on scales of 1-5, her feelings about her abortion, adoption, and parenting options. This was probably the first time that she had even thought about any option other than abortion.

When I told her that her pregnancy test was positive Carly was not surprised because she had a taken an at  home test 2 months ago. Still, there were tears. She was so worried what her family would think, especially her grandpa, who she described as “very religious.” I pointed out to her that her very religious grandpa would probably not want her to have an abortion. This was a thought that clearly had not crossed her mind.

We discussed abortion, adoption and parenting. She was very interested in information about adoption, an option that she hadn't considered before. I gave her a Positive Pregnancy Folder and added extra information about adoption and abortion, including how abortion works, post-abortion syndrome, and abortion pill reversal. It is our mission to ensure she has all of the information she needs to make a fully informed choice and that we are here to support her.

I asked if I could pray for her. She said yes and there were more tears.

Matt then joined us in the ultrasound room. Carly and Matt were both surprised at the first view of their baby. A little hand came into view. It was moving near a perfectly formed face. Little legs were kicking.  And the sound of their baby's beating heart filled the room. 

There was laughter. And more tears.

Matt and Carly left with pictures of their baby, a bag with prenatal vitamins, a tiny hand knit baby hat, and so many local community referrals.

As she walked past me, she asked if she could give me a hug. What an amazing blessing to be a part of God's work as He changes plans for death to plans for life.

*Names changed to protect our client's privacy.