Leslie's 2011 Walk for Life Testimony

  Leslie
California,  United States
 
 

I was in college: I had a crisis pregnancy; I wanted to finish college; I chose to have an abortion.

 

I was told that it was a “simple procedure” and I that “I could get on with my life.”

 

I was not prepared with what happened to me in the back room.  The experience of the abortion was not simple, it was painful and freighting, I never wanted to think about it again.  I just wanted to “get on with my life” like they said I would.

 

AFTER THE ABORTION:

I used alcohol to make myself feel better and tried to forget the experience. I was no longer able to concentrate; I ended up dropping out of college.  I did not “get on with my life” like they said I would….I struggled with guilt, shame and self hate for decades.

 

It would be 25 years later, before I would finally sought help.  I attended a Rachel’s Hope

Retreat for after abortion healing in San Diego.  At this retreat, I experienced God’s love and mercy.  I was able to share my secret with other women who had similar stories like mine.  I was finally able to let go of the feelings of guilt, shame, and self hate that I carried for decades.

 

At the retreat, I was able to give honor and dignity to my child.  My “simple procedure” has a name, her name is Rebecca and she is my daughter and I am her Mom.  I wear her birthstone on my finger.

 

Abortion did not help me; it hurt me; I did not get on with my life like they said I would.  I suffered for years until I sought help.

 

“They tell you that abortion is a simple procedure and that you can get on with your life.  Well, you do momentarily, but you spend your whole life trying to forget it.”   Woman deserve better! That’s why I am silent no more!

 

   
   
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