Audrey’s Story

National Review: Resources That Serve New and Expectant Mothers Deserve Our Support

Article appeared in: National Review | By: Audrey Martin | Photo Credit: Adobe Stock (stock photo)

At a time when there is so much conversation about “choice” in our society, many people would be shocked to know that 60 percent of women who have had abortions say they would have preferred to give birth, rather than end their pregnancy, if they had received the emotional or financial support they needed.

After experiencing an unexpected pregnancy just over a year ago, I am not surprised by this statistic. I could have easily been a part of the 60 percent. When I found out I was pregnant, I knew that I didn’t have the resources or the support I would need. I was also in an unhealthy relationship and needed a fresh start both for me and for my unborn daughter.

A few years earlier, I had spent time in a maternity home and connected with a woman named Gina. She, and the maternity home, had helped me find support and love during that previous unexpected pregnancy.

Despite having lived in a maternity home before, I still wasn’t sure where to go for help. My circumstances and my needs had changed. I had no idea if a maternity home was the right fit for this pregnancy. I also knew I would need help applying for WIC and other essential resources.