when i was 18, i was a freshman in college. i had been dating someone casually for over a year, who, was not interested in an exclusive, committed relationship with me.

on january 27, i spoke at an event commemorating the 41st anniversary of roe v. wade. i spoke about the tragedy of losing our son, who was due to be born today, march 15, and why sharing stories is critical in our fight for reproductive rights.

as one who was always pro-choice, i always viewed abortion as a necessary evil. it was not something i would want to do, but would have to do if faced with a pregnancy i didn't want (at least that's how my line of thinking went when i was younger and not ready to be a mother).

i thought the guy was nice at first, but to cut to the chase, after moving in for a few months with him he had become so increasingly jealous and possessive that i was at the point where i was pretty much a prisoner in my own home in a domestic violence situation.

i don't have unusual or circumstances that would 'excuse' an abortion.

i was 19 years old and my partner was 22. i was a week late on my period and my breasts were very swollen and sore, so i had my friend who works at a medical clinic bring home a test for me.