at 17 years old i encountered an unexpected pregnancy. struggling with severe depression i had made the decision to terminate my pregnancy.

terrified to confront the issue, i attempted suicide through the consumption of 87 antidepressant pills. my parents, without knowledge of my pregnancy, rushed me to the hospital where i fought for my life in the icu. once i recovered my entire family showed their support for my decision to terminate my pregnancy. for years after the procedure i dedicated myself to my mental health and academics. doctors had diagnosed me with bipolar disorder and i was eventually able to overcome it. i graduated high school and then college. now at 24 years old i am married to a loving man, have a beautiful 2 year old son, own a home and about to start a doctoral program in psychology. i have also grown to manage my symptoms of bipolar disorder. without the ability and support to obtain an abortion i don’t believe i would be where i am today. i was able to become a mother, who was ready and able to give my child everything he needed, on my own terms. without my abortion i also don’t believe i would’ve been able to overcome my mental health struggles. few know of my history, due to the societal views on abortion, but i am ready to break the silence. abortion saved my life.