When I had nowhere to go and no clue what to do, Assurance helped send me in the right direction. I was only 18 and was pregnant. I was terrified – worried about telling my parents—particularly my father. I wondered how I was going to progress in life, considering high school was ending and college was supposed to be right around the corner; concerned about the relationship I was in and worried that I would end up doing this whole “parent thing” by myself. In fear, I considered abortion. I googled it to see where the nearest location was – Assurance popped up as a confidential facility, so I called, and they worked me into the schedule that very day.
I was 6 weeks and 2 days pregnant. They talked about my options, they told me about the risks involved with abortion and even discussed the option of adoption. They did an ultrasound, and I was able to see the tiny little embryo. They allowed me to choose a stuffed animal and blanket for my baby from their collection of items. I felt like there was no way I could abort this human that was being created within my body after meeting with the ladies and receiving all of the information.
I am so happy that Assurance popped up during my online search. Going to Assurance changed my life for the better. They gave me hope, they empowered me, all while making me feel comfortable and protected. My mom was supportive and helped me every step of the way. My dad took it really hard. He was unhappy with me, honestly, throughout my pregnancy, but once the baby was born, he sang a totally different tune. He often recalls his attitude during my pregnancy and still apologizes to me for how he treated me. Now, he is my son’s biggest fan, and loves him just as much as I do.
My son’s father was not the easiest to deal with then, and we ended up not staying together. But now he is the best father to our son that I could ask for, and we co-parent better than most people who choose to have children together later on in life.
Ultimately, my pregnancy was not an easy one. My son had a birth defect called Gastroschisis. Upon the discovery of this, I was told I could terminate the pregnancy due to other potential complications, but I refused. I felt I was put in this position for a reason, and I risked it all to see where this path would take me. I graduated from high school and a couple of years later finished college with an Associate of Science in Nursing. I am now a Certified Medical Assistant/Office Manager and thriving in my position. I bought my very first house when I was 28 years old.
My son is almost 12 and is super healthy – you would never know he had complications at birth. He is an honor roll student with perfect attendance; during his last year of elementary school, he made straight A’s. He just started middle school and is in advanced classes doing a phenomenal job. I am living proof that having a baby young does not stop your dreams. Being a mom is the best job I’ve ever had, and he brings me so much happiness and joy. I’ve never felt more proud in my life. He is my best accomplishment,t and I have no clue what I would do in this life without him by my side.
-Sarah
