When “Jessie” came to PCC, she was very conflicted about her pregnancy, which was her 4th. She is in her mid 20’s and she already has two children. She was worried about not being able to give her other kids the things she considered they need. On the other hand, Jessie is still feeling bad about the child she aborted five years ago. Her entire family including her husband and friends encouraged her to have this baby.
While weighing the risks, benefits and consequences of having another abortion, Jessie had called two abortion clinics and had a pregnancy test taken at one of them. Jessie asked God to help her decide what to do. When she came to the PCC, the Client Advocate listened carefully to Jessie’s concerns, and shared information and resources to help her sort out her conflicted feelings. Jessie listened thoughtfully when the Client Advocate informed her that open adoption would be a good alternative if she thought she could not afford another child.
After several days, Jessie returned to the PCC clinic with her mother, for a limited ultrasound. When they saw the baby and noticed its heart beating, Jessie had a flashback to the ultrasounds she had of her other babies. Jessie told the nurse she would definitely carry and keep this new baby. She was happy with her choice—no more conflicted feelings.
A couple of weeks before her baby girl was due, Jessie came in for material assistance. She had been in and out of the hospital with contractions, so there was no time for a baby shower. Thanks to generous donors, the PCC gave her a stroller, bassinet, bath tub as well as clothes, blankets, diapers, wipes, lotion, bottles, bibs, socks, crib sheets and bath towels. She was entered on the list for a crib, and the PCC was able to give her one when the baby was 3 months old. Now, we get to see Jessie, her baby girl and her other kids once a month when she returns for diapers and other supplies. She looks a little tired, but very happy with her young beautiful family!