This article is shared with us by a staff member at Advice & Aid. While the story is specific, we receive calls like this every day. And every day, we offer hope.
It was just after noon when the phone rang. I pick up the phone, and say, “Thank you for calling Advice & Aid, how can I help you?”
The anxious voice of a young woman responds, “I think I might be pregnant, and I don’t know what to do. My boyfriend just broke up with me, and I’m afraid to tell my parents for fear that they will kick me out of the house.”
We hear this often, “I think I might be pregnant, and I don’t know what to do. . .” It can be followed by a variety of reasons: “I’m afraid I won’t be able to finish school,” or “I’m afraid of what my friends will think.” We often hear, “I’m afraid to tell my parents – they’ll be so upset,” or “My boyfriend doesn’t want this baby.” Many times, it is simply the words, “This isn’t a good time in my life to be pregnant right now.”
When someone is in this position, she simply needs affirmation that she is capable of overcoming whatever challenging circumstances she currently faces!
In this moment, I have to consider the best way to encourage this young woman.
“I’m so glad you called us today. I want you to know that we are here to help you out during this difficult time. We offer so many different resources to help get you through it. We have things like free pregnancy testing to make sure you are pregnant and peer counseling to help with the tough times. For later on, you can take parenting classes, receive material aid for things that you and the baby will need, get community referrals, and even stay with us for parenting support group programs.
For now, though, just know that you don’t have to be alone.”
I can hear the relief in her voice, as she tells me that she’d like to come in to meet with us. I ask what day and time would work best for her, and then proceed to set an appointment for her at a time that is convenient for her to come in. I give her one last word of encouragement, “When you come, you will get to meet with a trained client advocate. She will spend time with you and help you sort through your pregnancy options if you are still unsure about what you want to do.
For now, though, just know that we are here for you as a support system during this time.
Additional articles on the services and programs offered at Advice & Aid:
How We Help With An Unexpected Pregnancy
What Does A Visit To Advice & Aid Look Like?
