Gabby’s Story

Akron Beacon Journal: Pregnant Women Deserve Support to Succeed in Motherhood, New Mom Says

Article appeared in: Akron Beacon Journal | by: Gabby Weist | Photo Credit: Adobe Stock (stock photo)

Living in Chicago as a 23-year-old was a dream come true.  As a Northeast Ohio native and new college graduate, I was charting an exciting path in the city. I had my own apartment, a job working in finance, and was beginning to find my footing within the young professionals scene.

I was even dating a new guy, who I met through mutual friends. Our relationship was good, but he was moving away soon for Army infantry school, and we wanted to keep things casual.

After a short time together, I found out I was pregnant. The initial shock and surprise soon gave way to fear and anxiety. I was just starting to figure out my life, and I couldn’t imagine raising a baby on my own. To make matters worse, I felt extremely anxious about my pregnancy and worried that the baby wouldn’t be healthy.

I immediately told my mom, who met me with the support and confidence that only a mother can provide. She told me that she trusted me to make the right decision, even if I didn’t trust myself.

With her encouragement, I made an appointment with an ob-gyn in Chicago. I walked into the appointment wanting to check on my baby but feeling overwhelmed by how I would make it all work on my own.