Emily’s future took a sharp turn in a single pivotal moment: a positive home pregnancy test that prompted a whirlwind of emotions, chief among them being the consideration of abortion. Faced with uncertainty, she began searching online for an abortion facility, but by God’s grace, she stumbled across one of Heroic Media’s pregnancy help center partners in Dallas instead.
Emily would later describe the pregnancy help center as a sanctuary offering guidance and support. She promptly scheduled an appointment, enlisted her sister-in-law as a companion, and embarked on a one-hour drive to the center.
In an unexpected twist, Emily’s sister-in-law initiated a conversation about alternatives to abortion during their drive to the pregnancy help center. She authoritatively told Emily, “We don’t get abortions in this family.”
After some further discussion, her sister-in-law finally tendered a heartfelt alternative, telling Emily, “If you don’t want to parent your baby, then I do: I will adopt your baby.” This unforeseen proposition prompted Emily to reconsider her decision, contemplating the possibility of carrying the baby to term.
During her appointment at the pregnancy help center, she explored available resources like Pregnancy Medicaid, Nurse Family Partnership, maternity homes, and Embrace Grace. She desperately wanted to make informed choices for the path ahead.
However, a few days later, reality took a different turn. Emily discovered that the anticipated support from her loved ones was not as steadfast as she had hoped. The initial resolve wavered, and thoughts of abortion resurfaced.
Sympathizing with Emily’s fears and uncertainties, the client advocate from the center provided reassurance and reintroduced the array of resources at her disposal. Through empathetic conversations, Emily regained her composure and agreed to explore these supportive avenues.
The turning point occurred during Emily’s ultrasound appointment at the pregnancy help center. As she witnessed the sonogram images and heard her baby’s heartbeat, the gravity of the situation hit her – “it just got real.” Living with her father, who was initially hesitant, Emily faced another challenge as he asked her to find alternative accommodation. Undeterred, she sought refuge in a waiting list for maternity homes and continued working to save money.
Fast forward to the 20-week mark, and Emily’s outlook completely transformed. A prenatal care appointment revealed that she was expecting a girl. More hearteningly, her father extended his support, allowing her to stay with him throughout the pregnancy and beyond. Despite challenges, Emily remained optimistic.
As the due date approached, the client advocate reached out and congratulated her on the impending arrival and promised a baby gift basket. The resilience and transformation in Emily’s journey showcased the power of support and the strength that can emerge even in the face of uncertainty.
Proverbs 17:17 “A friend loves at all times but a brother is born to help in times of need.”
