i had no insurance, a crappy job, and plenty of debt. i didn’t want to bring a child into that scenario as a minority woman with the cards already stacked against me. in that moment, i felt like an abortion was the best decision so i could focus on building my life and my career. i was happy and relieved afterwards. it was like a huge weight taken off of me. i also got an iud placed because the facility i went to had an assistance program for low income women to help fund the cost. sometimes i think of how i would be 8 months pregnant right now and i have mixed feelings about it. i love babies and really wanted one, so sometimes i feel guilty for choosing my career, other times i’m thankful i’m not forced to struggle. also, the guy i was dating ended up being no good for me and probably would have been an unreliable parent. it was still one of the hardest decisions i’ve ever made, but i do know i can’t change the past. fortunately, i ended up passing my exam, landing a great job, and started saving for my own place. i’ve raised money for family planning services and affordable birth control options. i am sharing my story because so many other stories have helped me through this. it’s not easy and it’s comforting to know i’m not alone. i’m still working on forgiving myself and every day i get a step closer.